Where to Eat and Drink in Bucharest: Casual Restaurants, Cafés and Local Spots

I lived in Bucharest my entire life, and when I’m not travelling, I love going out and exploring new casual spots with my friends.

And Bucharest has no shortage of restaurants, cafés, and terraces. However, not all of them are worth your time, especially if you’re only here for a few days.

This is my curated guide to where to eat and drink in Bucharest, focusing on casual restaurants, local favourites, coffee spots, and places I actually go back to.

If you’re looking for more polished fine dining and special-occasion places, I’ve also put together a separate guide to the best restaurants in Bucharest.

If you’re specifically looking for plant-based options, I also have a separate guide to the best vegan restaurants in Bucharest. And if you’re visiting in warmer months, don’t miss my list of the best rooftops and terraces in Bucharest.

TL;DR Where to Eat and Drink in Bucharest

• Best casual restaurant: Mira Space
• Best local vibe: Energiea
• Best brunch: Simbio
• Best craft beer: Anagram
• Best coffee: Origo

Where to Eat and Drink in Bucharest (Map)

Here are all the locations on the map, so you can find them more easily:

Best Traditional Restaurants in Bucharest for Everyday Eating

Most of these restaurants have an outdoor seating area, but they are also popular.

That’s why I recommend calling and booking a table if you want to eat at any of these restaurants during the weekend.

La Mama

La Mama is one of those places you’ll see everywhere in Bucharest. It’s not a hidden gem, and it’s not trying to be.

But it’s reliable.

If you want traditional Romanian food in a casual, no-stress setting, this is one of the safest options in the city. The menu is big, portions are generous, and you’ll find all the classics (sarmale, soups, grilled dishes, and comfort food). I love how these kinds of restaurants give a familiar feeling, even if it’s your first time in Romania.

The atmosphere depends a lot on the location. Some are nicer (with terraces and a more relaxed vibe), others feel more like a classic city restaurant where people just come to eat and leave.

This is not a “special dinner” place. It’s more of an “I want something traditional and filling without overthinking it” kind of spot.

Food is generally good, sometimes very good, but not always consistent (which is normal for a chain).

Service can also vary depending on the location and how busy it is.

My take: if it’s your first time in Bucharest and you want an easy introduction to Romanian food, La Mama is a good start. Just don’t expect anything extraordinary.

Hanu’ Berarilor (Casa Oprea Soare)

Address: Strada Poenaru Bordea 2, București 040092 (Casa Oprea Soare)

Hanu’ Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare is one of those traditional Romanian restaurants that feels a bit more relaxed compared to the super touristy spots in Old Town.

It has that same historic, traditional vibe (wood interiors, big rooms, classic Romanian design), but the atmosphere is noticeably calmer and less chaotic.

This is the kind of place where you can actually enjoy your meal without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by crowds.

The menu focuses on traditional Romanian dishes, and portions are generous (as expected). You’ll find all the classics here: sarmale, soups, grilled meats, and of course, papanasi for dessert, which a lot of people specifically come here for.

The quality is generally good and consistent, especially for a place of this size. It’s not trying to reinvent anything, just doing traditional food properly.

One thing I really like about this place is the terrace. If you visit in warmer months, it’s one of the better spots to sit, especially if you want a quieter experience compared to Old Town restaurants.

Service is usually friendly and attentive, although, like most popular places in Bucharest, it can slow down during peak hours.

Prices are fair for what you get, and they also have set menus during the week, which are actually very good value.

If you want traditional Romanian food just a bit outside the Old Town, this is a very solid choice.

It doesn’t have the same traditional show as places like Caru’ cu Bere, but it makes up for it with a more relaxed atmosphere and a more enjoyable overall experience.

Note that Hanu’ Berarilor has 2 locations. Both are spectacular.

Best Casual Restaurants in Bucharest

If you want to book a table at one of the best restaurants in Bucharest that offer a memorable moment, check my list of the best restaurants in Bucharest (the top restaurants I’d recommend if you are only spending a few days in Bucharest).

Mira Space

Address: Strada Jules Michelet 18, Bucharest (next to the British Embassy)

Mira Space is one of those places I randomly discovered… and immediately thought ok, this is going to become popular.

It’s a newer spot (you can tell), and when I went, it was already quite busy. There was even a big family gathering happening, which usually says a lot about how a place is perceived locally.

The space itself is modern, clean, and very well put together, but still relaxed. It works for pretty much anything: brunch, dinner with friends, or even just sitting down for a couple of hours.

The location is also a big plus. It’s close to Piața Romană, but just far enough from the chaos, so it feels more local and less touristy.

The menu is interesting without trying too hard. A mix of modern dishes, good flavour combinations, and everything I tried felt well-balanced and actually thought through. Nothing overly complicated, just good food done right.

Prices are also a bit more reasonable compared to Old Town, which makes it even easier to come back.

Service stood out to me. Friendly, attentive, and just easy, which honestly makes a big difference.

They also have a small terrace, which I imagine will be a really good spot once the weather is consistently warm.

This is one of those places I’d keep an eye on. Still a bit under the radar, but probably not for long.

Simbio

Address: Strada Negustori 26, București 023954

Simbio is one of those places locals keep going back to, especially for brunch or a slow lunch in a relaxed setting.

It’s tucked away in a quiet street, and if you don’t know about it, you might walk right past it. But once you step inside (or into the garden), it has that slightly messy, cosy vibe that works really well for a casual meal.

The food is genuinely good, especially for brunch. Think fresh focaccia, hummus, shakshouka, French toast — simple dishes, but done properly. It’s the kind of place where you come for comfort food rather than anything fancy.

The garden is probably the highlight during warmer months. It fills up quickly, and it’s a really nice spot to just sit for a couple of hours with coffee, food, and no rush.

Now, being honest, the experience is not always consistent. The service can feel a bit slow or uninterested at times, and prices are slightly higher than you’d expect for this kind of place.

But overall, I still think Simbio is worth it.

It’s not about perfection — it’s about the atmosphere. And if you’re looking for a casual, local-style spot with good food and a laid-back vibe, this is a solid choice.

Energiea

Address: Strada Ion Brezoianu 4, București 050023

Energiea is one of those places that just works, whether you go for food, drinks, or both.

It’s set in a former print house, so the whole space has that slightly industrial, laid-back vibe that makes it feel different from the usual Old Town spots. It’s close enough to the centre, but just far enough to avoid the chaos.

This is the kind of place you come to meet friends and end up staying longer than planned.

The menu is modern and casual, with a mix of comfort food and creative dishes, which includes things like burgers, tacos, and ribs. And yes, their fries are still one of the things people keep coming back for. I just love fries, and this is the best place in Bucharest to eat fries.

Cocktails are also a strong point here. Not overcomplicated, just solid and consistent.

The atmosphere is what really makes Energiea stand out. It’s lively, social, and has that “local favourite” feel without trying too hard.

Now, being honest, service can be a bit inconsistent depending on how busy it is, and some items on the menu might not always be available. But overall, the experience makes up for it.

If you want a relaxed place with good food, drinks, and a proper Bucharest vibe, this is an easy recommendation.

HYGGE – Social Kitchen

Address: Calea Victoriei 21, București

Trattoria Il Calcio

Address: Multiple locations in Bucharest

Trattoria Il Calcio is one of those classic Italian spots you’ll see everywhere in Bucharest. I used to like a lot before I was a vegan.

It’s not a hidden gem. It’s more of a reliable, familiar option when you’re craving pizza or pasta and don’t want to overthink it.

The menu is big, covering pretty much everything you’d expect from an Italian trattoria: pizza, pasta, risotto, and meat dishes. And when it’s done right, the food is actually good. Portions are generous, and some dishes (especially pasta and pizza) can hit that “simple and satisfying” spot.

But this is also the kind of place where the experience can vary a lot depending on the location and the day.

Sometimes service is fast and friendly, other times it can feel slow or a bit chaotic. It’s a busy chain, and you feel that.

The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, nothing fancy. It works well for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or even a group meal when you just want something easy.

Prices are mid-range for Bucharest, maybe slightly higher than what you’d expect for this type of place, but still reasonable overall.
This is not where you go for the best Italian food in Bucharest.
This is where you go when you want something familiar, easy, and decent without taking risks.

Best Craft Beer & Bars in Bucharest

Zăganu

Address: Calea Victoriei 91, 93, București 010091

Zăganu is a craft beer bar located on Calea Victoriei, one of Bucharest’s most beautiful streets. This Romanian craft beer bar will make you wonder why you waited so long to visit Romania for the first time.

Anagram

Address: Platforma Industrială Grantmetal, Strada Mehadia 43, București

Anagram is one of those places you don’t just stumble upon. You either know about it, or a local takes you there.

It’s a small craft beer taproom right by Lacul Morii, in a quieter part of the city (Crângași area). Definitely not touristy. In fact, you’ll mostly see locals here, especially in the evenings or on weekends.

This is where I go when I want something different from the usual Old Town bars.

They brew their own beer on-site, and usually have around 10 options on tap, plus more in the fridge. If you’re into craft beer (IPA, sours, stouts), you’ll probably enjoy it. The quality is actually really solid.

But honestly, the real reason to come here is the vibe.

You’re right next to the lake, there’s space to walk around, and sometimes they have small events or music. Dogs are welcome. It feels more relaxed, a bit alternative, almost like a mini escape from the city without actually leaving Bucharest.

There’s usually a food truck around (tacos, BBQ, things like that), so you can eat as well, but this is more of a “drinks + hangout” kind of place.

If you want to see a more local, slightly hipster side of Bucharest, this is a great spot.
Not essential for first-time visitors, but definitely worth it if you want something different.

Wine bars in Bucharest

UVA Wine Shop & Bar

Address: Strada Constantin Mille 18, București

I chose this wine bar to meet one of my girlfriends. It’s a cute place to catch up and sip some good wine in Bucharest.

Although the place is somewhat small, it is cute, and the location is great, close to the Old Town and easy to access if you arrive by public transport. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, and they have a large variety of wines (both Romanian and international collections).

Corks Cozy Winebar

Address: Strada Băcani 1, București

This is one of the first wine bars I have ever visited in Bucharest. It’s in the Old Town, but it has been there for over a decade, before going to a wine bar was a thing in Bucharest. I’m glad that they are still in business after all these years.

Best Coffee Shops in Bucharest

Origo

Address: Strada Lipscani 9, București 050971

Some say Origo has the best coffee in Bucharest. In the evening, Origo turns into a bar. The location is small, and there are only a few tables. They only have some coffee snacks, but it is one of the top places to include on the list of places to eat and drink in Bucharest, because they know about their drinks.

Artichoke Social House

Address: Calea Victoriei 45, București 010062

Artichoke Social House

Emozia Coffee Manifesto

Address: Strada Halelor 17, București 030167

Emozia Coffee Manifesto

Tucano Coffee Guatemala

Address: Calea Dorobanți 18, București 010572

Tucano Coffee has a very nice location and offers food and great desserts, right in the centre of Bucharest. Cheesecake, anyone? Don’t worry, veggie options are available.

STEAM Coffee Shop

Address: Strada Uruguay 22, București

STEAM Coffee Shop is a small place with great coffee, pet-friendly, and it is in a very nice location in the centre of the city.

Best Summer Gardens & Terraces in Bucharest

For a full guide, check my detailed list of Bucharest summer gardens and terraces.

Modelier

Address: Strada Duzilor 12, București 021472

Modelier has a cute location with a nice terrace in the backyard of an old house, and some say that they serve some of the best burgers in town. They even have a veggie burger on the menu. But you might need a reservation if you want to visit them for dinner.

Hanu’ lu Manuc

Address: Strada Franceză 62-64, București 030106

Located in the old town, Hanu’ lu Manuc is indeed an old inn, reconditioned recently, with a large terrace within its walls, where most foreigners stop for some traditional Romanian dishes and traditional music.

Grădina Olovina

Address: Strada Căpitan Gheorghe Demetriade 10, București

The Embassy (Gallery Concept)

Address: Piața Alexandru Lahovari 8, București 030167

On a more chic note, The Embassy is a fancy location in an old house in the centre of Bucharest, where they serve some food and drinks. They also have a nice outdoor area. The Embassy is the kind of place that you can either wear heels or casual summer sandals and feel great. It has been popular ever since I was in high school, when my colleagues were having drinks and pizza here.

Sera Eden

Address: Calea Victoriei 107, București

Imagine a huge interbelic villa in the middle of Bucharest, and a backyard of seemingly wild trees and vegetation with wooden tables, and you get Eden Garden. It’s a popular place for beer and summer lemonades, bike and pet-friendly.

Fabrica Club

Address: Strada 11 Iunie nr. 50, București 040172

If you’re more of a rock fan, with a liking of repurposed red brick industrial buildings, then Fabrica Club has a terrace you will enjoy. They occasionally have rock concerts of local rock bands (but also smaller international bands), and they welcome bikers and pets on their terrace.

Deschis Gastrobar

Address: Splaiul Unirii 160, București

Another old industrial hall that was repurposed is the terrace of Deschis Gastrobar, which is literally on the rooftop of such a building. The rooftop is on the 2nd floor, but it has nice views over the Dambovita River and has great light at sunset. They also host smaller events and concerts. They serve some food, but most people come here for a drink.

Linea / Closer to the Moon

Address: Strada Lipscani 17, București 030167

One of the famous rooftops and terraces from Bucharest is located in the old town and has great views over the entire area.

Linea is also a restaurant, as you will see before you reach the terrace, and they serve great drinks in a very nice setting. The place is popular for pictures, so there will always be people taking pictures, especially at sunset.

Of course, there are a lot of places that didn’t make it on this list (not because they are bad, but because I haven’t tested them all. Let me know what restaurants and cafes I should add to the list of places to eat and drink in Bucharest, Romania.