Khash, khorovats, dolma, and other Armenian staples—and where to find them in Gyumri.
In Gyumri, food isn’t just eaten—it’s honored. It’s the way locals welcome you, celebrate life, or simply survive a cold winter morning. The dishes here carry memory, meaning, and a whole lot of garlic. If you’re looking for traditional Armenian flavors served with a dose of local pride, these are the dishes to try—and the places to try them.
Khash: For the Brave (and the Early Risers)
Served steaming in the early mornings of winter, khash is one of Armenia’s most iconic and ritualistic dishes. Made by simmering cow’s feet overnight, it’s eaten with dry lavash, mashed garlic, and vodka—always in good company.
Zero – Widely considered the best place in Gyumri for khash, especially during khash season.
Jam – Known more for its vibe, but the khash hits the spot!
Khorovats: Fire-Grilled Glory
Armenia’s answer to barbecue. Smoky, juicy, marinated meat grilled over coals. No sauces. No shortcuts. Just flavor and flame.
Hatsatun – The city’s go-to for khorovats and other meat specialties. Perfectly charred, perfectly portioned.
Dolma: Armenia’s Soul in a Wrap
Minced meat and rice wrapped in grape or cabbage leaves, dolma is the ultimate comfort food. Served warm with matsun, and every family thinks theirs is the best.
Gwoog Gastrohouse – Local favorite for classic dolma done right.
Soups: Spoonfuls of Home
Armenian soups are healing. Tanov apur (matsun-based soup), pochov apur (bean or lentil-based), and other regional broths are the heartbeat of local cuisine.
Poloz Mukuch – Ask for their tanov apur—it’s a winter staple. And ask for pochov apur in Miro (believe us!).
Panrkhash: The Shirak Staple
A Gyumri-born dish made with lavash, cheese, onion, and butter, panrkhash is meant to be shared, savored, and followed by a nap.
Gwoog – No question, the best panrkhash in the city.
Yaghli: The Taste of Gyumri
A buttery, doughy, cheesy masterpiece . The best ones found only in Gyumri.
Yaghli House – This is the place to try it. It’s in the name, after all.
Fish in a Meat-Loving City? Yes.
While meat dominates, Cherkezi Dzor proves fish has a seat at the table. Think trout, grilled whole, served with herbs and lemon.
Cherkezi Dzor – Best fish restaurant not just in Gyumri, but arguably the region. Go for the trout, stay for the atmosphere.
Why It Belongs on Your Itinerary
Because Gyumri feeds you like family. With both hands, no fuss, and all heart. Whether it’s a bowl of soup, a piece of lavash hot from the tonir, or a table full of shared dishes—you won’t leave hungry. You might not even leave
