The City's Culinary Landmarks You Shouldn't Miss

Every city has its "you have to go there" spots. The ones that get passed from one traveler to another, whispered in hostel kitchens, or found on every local’s shortlist.  Whether you're after the fluffiest ponchik, the warmest soup, or the liveliest evening, these are the stops that define the taste of Gyumri.

Ponchik Monchik

You’ve heard the name before you even land in Gyumri. This iconic little spot has one thing everyone wants: the legendary cream-filled ponchik—hot, airy, slightly crispy outside, oozing vanilla cream inside. No one leaves without at least one.

Aregak Bakery

A café with a mission. Aregak doesn’t just serve fresh pastries, hearty soups, and excellent coffee—it also provides employment for individuals with disabilities, creating one of the most meaningful culinary experiences in town. The food is genuinely good. The impact? Even better.

Herbs and Honey

If you’re looking for cozy, you’ve found it. Herbs and Honey feels like someone wrapped a Scandinavian café in Armenian warmth. Expect teas, sandwiches, herbal blends, handmade jams, and quiet corners perfect for journaling or just breathing slower. Their vegetarian options are some of the best in the city. Did we mention cheesecakes?

Cherkezi Dzor

This isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a full culinary destination. Cherkezi Dzor is built around its own fish farm, so everything on your plate was swimming earlier that day. Welcome to the countryside, without leaving the city.

Kumkuma

Modern, colorful, and full of life, Kumkuma is where Gyumri’s younger creative crowd gathers. Brunch-style dishes, salads with flair, good coffee, and an Instagram-worthy interior make it a local favorite. It’s light, fun, and different—and sometimes, that’s exactly what you want.

Hayat Music Hall

Come for dinner, stay for the show. Hayat mixes food and live performance in a way few places manage. Traditional dishes, a lively crowd, and music that fills the space make it a favorite for both visitors and locals celebrating something (or nothing at all).

Gyumri Express

A meal—and a mini show. At Gyumri Express, some dishes don’t arrive by waiter... they arrive by train. A tiny locomotive circles the restaurant, delivering food directly to your table like a scene from a childhood dream. Kids love it, adults film it, and the food (burgers, wraps, shawarma, and more) is reliably tasty. It’s fast, fun, and unlike anywhere else in town.