Moldova’s cuisine represents a mix of neighboring cuisines like Russian, Ukranian, Romanian, and of course Turkish, like in any Balkan country. And if during your culinary trip you want to get to the essence of local dishes, there is no better place to do it than in Ottoman – a Turkish restaurant in the Botanica district.
A good sign is that its owners are Turkish expats, and also among visitors you can always meet people from the Middle East, not to mention that the chef is also Turkish. So you can be sure of the authenticity of all meals here, starting with the various grill kebaps and ending with the famous kunefe dessert. Oh, and of course the dolma – different stuffed vegetables -- which is the most obvious parallel to Moldavian “sarmale”. A nice little thing is the complimentary cup of Turkish tea served for every guest.
My personal favorite is the Adana kebap, a grilled kebap from minced lamb, served with a good portion of salad and bulgur. The taste was the closest yet to the ones I've had in Istanbul.
The interior is not really trendy, but the food is a real reason to come here.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Chisinau guide.
"Valea Morilor Park" in the heart of Chisinau is a great recreational spot for a hot summer day. Half the city is here but you'll find your quiet spot!
By
"Istanbul Bazaar" in Chisinau is a Turkish market for all your baklava, lokum and Turkish coffee needs!
By
"Buiucani District" in Chisinau is the only part of the city were old village houses and churches still exist. I like it because I've lived here forever...
By
The "Church of Transfiguration" in Chisinau is unique in that its depiction of hell is very modern; I can hardly believe they allowed it to be painted...
By
"Chisinau Hotel" really has changed very little from soviet times. You don't have to stay, just ask to have a look around the rooms...
By
Chisinau's main "Train Station" is a must-see spot -- I always try to pass through it with my tours. The large soviet square is also worth looking at...
By
"MoldExpo" in Chisinau isn't just a green space that hosts exhibitions -- the statue of Lenin that used to stand in front of the government is here now.
By
"La Izvor" in Chisinau is one of the most beautiful but still underestimated green areas in the city. You can even see people swimming in the lake here...
By
"Chisinau Flea Market" is full of thousands of old soviet stuff. By buying things here, you help out the poor old people, so I encourage to get something!
By
Chisinau's underground passages used to be scary, dark, smelly and full of tasteless graffiti. Now things have changed -- you definitely have to see them!
By
We have plenty of Soviet mosaics in Chisinau that mean different things to different people. But this one on Negruzzi street has its own beautiful story!
By
"Salat" is a family restaurant in Chisinau. Most of the time, I come here for lunch. They have bistro tables & a nice big buffet, and so are pretty cheap!
By
0 Insider Tips from Locals
Authentic Stories
Escape the Crowds
Full Access to our Chisinau Blog & App!
✓ 0 Hidden Gems only Locals know
✓ Full Access to the Chisinau City Blog & App!