Gagauz Cricima Chisinau
My favorite Gagauz restaurant
Moldova has always been a home to different nationalities: Russians, Ukrainians, Bulgarians have lived here for centuries and are a part of the complex and rich culture of the country. And of course one of the most interesting nations are the Gagauz. Gagauz are of Turkic origin and speak a language similar in many ways to Turkish, but profess Christianity. Gagauz live on the south of Moldova in the region of the Budjac steppe and have a really interesting culture and traditions, which can be experienced exclusively in Moldova.
In Chisinau it is also possible to have a taste of Gagauz cuisine, and despite there being several Gagauz restaurants, my favorite is Gagauz Cricima in Riscani district. Cricima in Gagauz language means "traditional tavern", and the interior of the spot matches that description perfectly.
The food is also great and made according to old traditional recipes. In my opinion, Gagauz cuisine is built on 3 major pillars: mutton, house wine and sheep cheese. Mutton is the most common meat used in dishes here -- besides the various grill options, my personal favorite is “Kavurma”, mutton with vegetables that has been steamed for many hours. Sheep cheese is the obligatory filling for local pastry – “Gozleme”, and Gagauz home-made wine, which significantly differs from industrial ones, is a must-try for any meal.
Find your way with 87 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Chisinau
Valea Morilor Park
Our best recreation area
"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
Nicolai
Chirnev
Istanbul Bazaar
Turkish market
"Istanbul Bazaar" in Chisinau is a Turkish market for all your baklava, lokum and Turkish coffee needs!
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Buiucani District
My part of town
"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
Nicolai
Chirnev
Chisinau Hotel
Soviet estate
"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
Nicolai
Chirnev
Train Station
Stalinist square
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
Nicolai
Chirnev
La Izvor
City lake
"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
Nicolai
Chirnev
Church of Transfiguration
Hell in Chisinau
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
Nicolai
Chirnev
Soviet Mosaic
On Negruzzi street
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
Nicolai
Chirnev
MoldExpo
Come to Lenin
"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
Nicolai
Chirnev
Eminescu Square
Not only souvenirs
"Eminescu Square" in Chisinau is a place you can't miss as a tourist. The square itself is beautiful, old and full of real Moldavian souvenirs...
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Chisinau Flea Market
Back in time
"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
Nicolai
Chirnev
Chisinau Underground
Passage
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
Nicolai
Chirnev
Heading to Chisinau?
87 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Chisinau?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 87 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 Chisinau
Our team loves Chisinau
Get to know our other Spotters from Chisinau
As featured on:
