The new kid on the block is here to display the best of modern Bulgarian product design. Looking for a souvenir to take back home with you can be a nightmare anywhere in the world nowadays. Everything is usually made in the same place (Asia, mostly) and looks fairly similar. When it comes to souvenirs, Bulgaria has another problem - most of the products on offer have been here for generations. If you ask a Bulgarian about a typical souvenir it would most probably be something with roses or something handmade, usually wood. Or both (wooden rose oil souvenir vial). Don't get me wrong - I have given away plenty of those but we need something fresh.
I really believe (and hope) Gifted is here to change that. By doing so, the new 'urban culture hub' wants to give the stage to some of the most talented Bulgarian artists. And actually there's been quite a few of them recently. The owner himself is one of these talented young Bulgarians - an architect, born and raised in Sofia. He has created a cozy place where you can browse through a selection of books, comics, vinyls, shirts and small objects, or just grab a drink and enjoy the current exhibition. The latest one showed a Bulgarian "graffiti" alphabet, for example.
Two more things:
-Â there is a place to store your baggage while sightseeing - luggage lockers
- you can rent a bike from Gifted, or a half one if you feel adventurous
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"Betahaus" is a coworking space in Sofia. Apart from the fact that you can rent a convenient work desk, I like it also for meeting people here.
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"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...
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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.
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More Joy is a fusion of the popular Harmonica brand, known for its local Bulgarian organic food, and the Italian Gaya Gelato. A delightful experience!
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Here is a hidden gem - a cute tram stop: Vishneva (which means sour cherry in Bulgarian), a small, charming wooden house in the forest.
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"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.
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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!
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It's been the same spot for 13 years now. Palace of Justice, next to the lion on the corner. Rain or shine, tour guides are there, you just have to show up.
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"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...
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A Belgian bakery with an Italian name in the heart of the Bulgarian capital. Yet another example of how Sofia is getting more and more cosmopolitan.
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