Ashurbanipal Sofia
The taste of Iraqi cuisine
Yana from Sofia
Ashurbanipal is one of my absolute favorite international food restaurants in Sofia. An Iraqi place in the area of Jenski Pazar (Ladies market), it still remains unnoticed by the passers-by unless they know where it is – mainly because it looks kind of closed from the outside.
The clients are often people who have somehow heard about the restaurant from friends or foreigners who live in Bulgaria (still a mystery to me how they know about it). Ashurbanipal is founded and run to this day by Freddy – the most friendly and inspiring Iraqi man, who has been living in Bulgaria for more than 10 years.
Do not be surprised by the lack of menus – be patient and Freddy will come and tell you what dishes they have for the day – there are always some vegetarian and vegan options. A second surprise might come when you order – you will be called to the small bar to pick up your food, starting with salad – wait – you probably have not ordered that? Well, here salad, bread and tea are free of charge, as a compliment from Freddy to his guests. My recommendation is not to miss the biryani rice, as it is one of the tastiest things I have ever tried.
Ashurbanipal is a bit small and might be closed in some unexpected hours, so make sure you call to check and reserve a table. Do not expect anything fancy – it is the opposite, but the magnificent food is definitely worth your visit.
Sofia Spotter Yana
About this spot
ulitsa Knyaz Boris I 174
- Lunchtime - 22:00 daily (call to check)
Meal for two:
BGN
40
876608887
Our Sofia City Guide
Find your way with 130 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Sofia
Uhaya
Bulgarian boutique cosmetics
Uhaya is a family-run business that sells high-quality natural products and accessories for health and a clean environment. Most of it is made in Bulgaria.
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Slanchogled
Arts and crafts supplies
"Slanchogled" is probably the oldest craft and art supplies store I know and still one of the best in Sofia. Going there is a favourite ritual of mine...
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Q-ftetaria
Food classic not to be missed!
The meatballs are usually served with cabbage salad, lyutenitsa dip & fries. As a Bulgarian, I find kyufte to be a comforting dish that never disappoints.
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Vishneva tram stop
Hidden forest stop in Sofia
Here is a hidden gem - a cute tram stop: Vishneva (which means sour cherry in Bulgarian), a small, charming wooden house in the forest.
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Zona Urbana
Recycled art
At "Zona Urbana" Sofia you can buy a fabulous, unique bag or wallet made from old newspapers or paper maps. It's a shop perfect for recycle freaks!
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Made in Blue
The Instagrammable restaurant
"Made in Blue" is a popular, unique restaurant for meetings and good food in Sofia. You can't miss it - the whole house is painted in blue...
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Skaptoburger
King of burgers
"Skaptoburger" is located in the heart of Sofia and won the King of Burgers award for 2016. This restaurant, its monthly offers, some ale... what more?
by
Simo
Stefanov
Antep Baklava
Bites of heaven!
"Antep Baklava" in Sofia is a small pastry shop that makes the best baklava and other Turkish desserts in the city! You have to try the Shobiet...
by
Yana
Alexieva
Boyana church
A UNESCO world heritage site
"Boyana Church" in Sofia is one of my favorite temples in the city. It's a UNESCO heritage gem of a site from the 11th century, next to giant sequoias...
by
Yana
Alexieva
65 Svetulki
Trendy place for a drink
"65 Svetulki" in central Sofia is a bar rapidly becoming a favorite destination for locals. What I love is its terrace and alternative bohemian design...
by
Yana
Alexieva
The Little Things
As tasty as homemade
"The Little Things" in Sofia hits the spot for me: this homey restaurant with delicious food really pays attention to the details in every small element...
by
Yana
Alexieva
Heading to Sofia?
130 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 130 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Restaurants
Our team loves Sofia
Get to know our other Spotters from Sofia
As featured on:
