This restaurant is considered a legend among Chisinau’s meat lovers, as it really has changed its location 3 times in the last 15 years but has kept its focus on quality meat dishes. As a result, Sofra Mangal has a devoted pool of visitors who don’t need the menu. In large part that is due to the merits of the owner-chef, who has given me the impression he lives here, and can often give good advice.
The restaurant has a Balkan inspiration and the menu is interesting as it includes many dishes served exclusively here like Pleskavita, Cheburek and Pilaf. My personal choice are the Manty – a variation of lamb dumplings that are extra-juicy. You should be really careful when eating them in a white shirt.
Any kind of grilled meat or fish is also great here and a waiter will always consult you what the options of the day are and if the fire at the grill is good.
Find your way with 87 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"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
"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
"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
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
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
"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
"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
"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
87 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 87 Insider Tips