Brilliant bar Sofia
Unexpected low class coziness
Fancy places gone boring?
Brilliant Bar is something on the exact opposite end of the table.
Brilliant seems to be an oasis of unpopularity in the very heart of the city. Located in an arcade across the columns of Garibaldi square, it is surprisingly unrecognizable even for locals. You will notice that fact shortly after you enter and realize that you are the only person that does not know everyone else as they, apparently, know each other. But don't worry, because even for locals it is the same. Anyway it would not take too long before you become "part of the crew" if you go there several times.
You can easily be confused whether the bartenders are at work or just hanging out because it seems they are always there.
The owner is a huge sports fan and you can see very rare and old authentic sport events' posters on the walls.
Brilliant has two floors, the upper one is sort of a 'free-zone' where you can often encounter young guys playing guitars and singing while others just chat at the table right next to them. However second floor is currently closed while undergoing some refreshment.
Regular visitors have a nickname for Brilliant - "The Misery", due to its appearance, but also unrepeatable atmosphere, i.e. like you are at home.
A little secret I'll share with you is every time I pass its entrance I play that tune from TV series "Cheers" in my head: "Where everybody knows your name..."
Find your way with 130 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Sofia
Raw and More
Desserts and smoothie bowls
With over 35 recipes, I believe most of them are original recipes, let me help you choose—my all-time favorite is the chocolate fudge with raspberries!
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
&bread
Fantastic pastries in Sofia
Specializing in bread, sandwiches, and croissants, what sets them apart is their commitment to locally sourced ingredients and their acclaimed canelé!
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Mangia Van
Mexican Street food
At Mangia Van you will find authentic Mexican street food: delicious burgers, burritos, tortillas, and quesadillas. There are also options for vegetarians!
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Farmers market Roman Wall
Saturday stop
Buy fresh, local breakfast items such as banitsa, cookies, and other baked goods. Everything is locally produced, which in most cases means organic and sustainable.
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
Handmade by Art.E
Better buy a mug from here
"Handmade by Art.E" in Sofia is an amazing atelier for pocelain goods! But this place is also good for more traditional gifts...
by
Tsvetomira
Filipova
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
Sofia City Art Gallery
Two for the price of one
"Sofia City Art Gallery" has exhibition halls with a huge collection, free entrance. Before the war it was a huge casino, but also hosted political meetings.
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
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 Bars
Our team loves Sofia
Get to know our other Spotters from Sofia
As featured on:
