Yerevan, Armenia’s capital and cultural heart, is fast becoming a top destination for food enthusiasts. The city offers an exciting blend of old-world flavors and modern culinary trends. From centuries-old Armenian dishes to creative international cuisine, Yerevan’s restaurants offer something for every taste.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy tavern with traditional live music, a fine dining experience in a restored historic building, or a garden café with a modern twist, Yerevan’s dining scene is rich, diverse, and deeply satisfying.
Here’s a carefully curated list of some of the best places to eat in Yerevan — whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler eager to rediscover local flavors.
1. Lavash Restaurant
- Cuisine: Armenian
- Location: Tumanyan Street, city center
- Ambiance: Traditional and elegant
Lavash has quickly become a must-visit for anyone wanting a deep dive into Armenian cuisine. Named after Armenia’s iconic flatbread, the restaurant features a clay oven where fresh lavash is baked daily right before your eyes. The menu is filled with heritage-rich dishes like khorovats (barbecued meats), spas (a warm yogurt soup), and ghapama (stuffed pumpkin with rice and dried fruits).
With a charming interior that mixes rustic wood, stonework, and modern touches, Lavash offers a classy yet welcoming dining experience. Perfect for travelers looking to taste Armenia in its most delicious and authentic form.
2. Sherep Restaurant
- Cuisine: Armenian with international influences
- Location: Republic Square
- Ambiance: Upscale and modern, with open kitchen
Sherep, meaning “ladle” in Armenian, reflects a vision of traditional food served with a contemporary twist. With its spacious dining hall and open kitchen, guests can watch the chefs prepare Armenian classics like harissa (wheat and chicken porridge), oven-baked trout, or spicy beef stew — all presented with flair.
The restaurant’s menu bridges Armenian and Mediterranean flavors, appealing to both local and international guests. Service is top-notch, and the central location makes it ideal for lunch or dinner after exploring Republic Square.
3. Dolmama – Armenian Restaurant
- Cuisine: Armenian Fusion
- Location: Near Abovyan Street
- Ambiance: Artistic and homey
Dolmama is a pioneer in modern Armenian cuisine. For over two decades, it has served creative takes on local dishes, blending traditional ingredients with European techniques. Think dolma wrapped in grape leaves, pork fillet with sour cherry sauce, or trout seasoned with wild herbs from the Armenian highlands.
Set in a cozy, art-filled space with brick walls and warm lighting, Dolmama feels like a home — and the food tastes like a love letter to Armenian heritage.
4. El Garden
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, European, Grill
- Location: Hidden within a green courtyard in central Yerevan
- Ambiance: Calm, airy, and surrounded by nature
El Garden is one of Yerevan’s hidden gems, offering a tranquil setting for brunch, lunch, or dinner. With both indoor and outdoor seating, this restaurant is surrounded by plants, fountains, and peaceful vibes. The menu includes grilled meats, creamy pastas, and a solid selection of vegetarian dishes.
Its combination of relaxed atmosphere, attentive service, and fresh flavors make it perfect for long, lazy meals — especially in warm weather.
5. The Smoking Chef
- Cuisine: Steakhouse, BBQ
- Location: Vardanants Street
- Ambiance: Bold, industrial-chic
If you’re a fan of grilled meats, dry-aged steaks, and bold flavors, The Smoking Chef is a must. This modern steakhouse is known for its high-quality beef, slow-cooked ribs, and flavorful sauces. The kitchen is visible from the dining room, allowing diners to watch the culinary action unfold.
With dim lighting, leather seating, and an extensive cocktail list, the vibe is both edgy and refined. Ideal for meat lovers and dinner dates alike.
6. The Club Yerevan
- Cuisine: Fusion of Armenian and European
- Location: On Pushkin Street
- Ambiance: Underground, cultural, intellectual
The Club is more than a restaurant — it’s a cultural space where food, books, music, and art come together. Located in a renovated underground wine cellar, this spot offers creative dishes in an eclectic setting.
The menu changes seasonally but often includes things like duck breast with pomegranate glaze or vegan-friendly quinoa bowls. The Club also serves a great selection of Armenian wines and even hosts live jazz nights or book launches.
7. In Vino & Tapastan
- Cuisine: Wine bar, Tapas
- Location: Saryan Street
- Ambiance: Cozy, intimate, European-inspired
In Vino was Armenia’s first true wine bar and still remains one of its most beloved. Featuring both local and international wines, it’s the perfect place for wine tasting, friendly gatherings, or romantic dates. Cheese and charcuterie platters, olives, bruschetta, and light tapas-style dishes round out the menu.
Next door, Tapastan expands the food offering with full-size portions, and a creative twist on Spanish-Armenian fusion cuisine.
8. Vostan by Tsirani
- Cuisine: Armenian Traditional
- Location: Historic building near the Opera House
- Ambiance: Regal, vintage, heritage-rich
Set in a restored 19th-century home, Vostan pays tribute to Armenia’s cultural and culinary history. From the old stone walls and antique décor to the menu steeped in tradition, everything about the place transports you to another era.
Signature dishes include tolma, ghavurma (preserved meats), trout with walnut sauce, and desserts like gata (Armenian pastry). It’s a wonderful place for anyone wanting to experience the country’s noble hospitality.
9. Pandok Yerevan (Tavern Yerevan)
- Cuisine: Traditional Armenian
- Location: Multiple branches in Yerevan
- Ambiance: Lively, rustic, authentic
Pandok Yerevan is the go-to for big gatherings, live music, and traditional food. Designed like a village tavern, it offers a hearty menu of Armenian comfort food: barbecued meats, bean stews, pickled vegetables, and handmade pastries.
The portions are generous, and the festive vibe is ideal for family-style dining, birthdays, or group celebrations.
10. Wine Republic
- Cuisine: International, Asian, European
- Location: Saryan Street
- Ambiance: Trendy, social, contemporary
Wine Republic is a stylish bistro that merges an international food menu with a superb selection of wines and cocktails. You can expect sushi, Thai curries, gourmet burgers, and fresh salads — all in a buzzing, modern setting that draws both tourists and locals.
Its late hours and central location make it a top choice for dinner followed by drinks.
Bonus Picks
- Seasons Café: For healthy eats and juices.
- Adzoukh: For authentic khash and hearty breakfasts.
- Dors Craft Beer & Kitchen: For Armenian craft beer and creative bar food.
Final Tips for Dining in Yerevan
- Many restaurants take reservations via phone or social media — consider booking ahead, especially on weekends.
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory (5–10% is standard).
- Try Armenian wines and brandies — they’re world-class and often cheaper than imports.
Conclusion
Yerevan’s culinary landscape is as warm and welcoming as its people. With such a rich food culture and variety of atmospheres — from rustic taverns to sleek rooftop lounges — every meal can be an experience in itself. Whether you’re in search of traditional recipes or modern fusion, the city has something that will surprise and satisfy your palate.
