Andrew Thompson
Updated: August 5, 2025
Best Sarmale in Bucharest (according to the Internet)
Bucharest, the vibrant capital of Romania, offers a rich tapestry of culinary delights, with sarmale standing out as a quintessential dish that embodies the nation's gastronomic heritage. These savory cabbage rolls, traditionally filled with a mixture of minced meat and rice, are a staple in Romanian cuisine, and the city boasts numerous establishments where both locals and visitors can savor authentic and innovative renditions of this beloved meal.
One such place is Caru’ cu Bere, an iconic restaurant established in 1879, renowned for its stunning Neo-Gothic architecture and lively atmosphere. Here, sarmale are prepared following time-honored recipes, served alongside creamy polenta and a dollop of sour cream, offering diners a taste of tradition in a setting that echoes the grandeur of bygone eras. ([visitbucharest.today](https://visitbucharest.today/traditional-restaurants-bucharest/))
For those seeking a blend of history and culinary excellence, Hanu’ lui Manuc provides an unparalleled experience. Housed in a historic inn dating back to 1808, this establishment serves sarmale that are both authentic and flavorful, allowing guests to dine amidst the echoes of the past. ([cuisinevoila.com](https://cuisinevoila.com/bucharest-traditional-dishes/))
In the heart of the Old Town, Lacrimi și Sfinți offers a modern twist on traditional Romanian cuisine. This restaurant is celebrated for its innovative approach, presenting sarmale made from a mix of goose, veal, and pork meat, boiled in Sauvignon Blanc, providing a unique flavor profile that delights the palate. ([theculturetrip.com](https://theculturetrip.com/romania/articles/where-to-find-the-best-sarmale-in-bucharest))
For a more rustic ambiance, La Mama is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. With multiple locations across the city, this restaurant chain is known for its homely atmosphere and traditional dishes, including sarmale made with a combination of beef and pork meat, served with smoked salo, raw onion, and chili, capturing the essence of Romanian home cooking. ([theculturetrip.com](https://theculturetrip.com/romania/articles/where-to-find-the-best-sarmale-in-bucharest))
Another noteworthy venue is Hanu’ Berarilor, where tradition meets good beer. Set in a beautiful historic mansion, this restaurant offers a full Romanian evening experience with subtle live music, beautiful architecture, and hearty, unpretentious food. Their sarmale, prepared with care, are a highlight of the menu. ([bucharest.ro](https://www.bucharest.ro/articles/eat-like-a-local-traditional-romanian-dishes-you-must-try-and-where-to-find-them-in-bucharest-254))
For those interested in exploring the diversity of sarmale, events like the "Tasting of Fetească and Sarmale" provide an opportunity to sample various interpretations of the dish paired with Romanian wines. Such events showcase the versatility of sarmale and their place in the broader context of Romanian culinary traditions. ([winesdayapp.ro](https://winesdayapp.ro/en/places/tasting-of-feteasc--and-sarmale--bucharest-))
In Bucharest, the love for sarmale is evident in the dedication of its chefs and the enthusiasm of its diners. Whether you're seeking a traditional experience or a contemporary take on this classic dish, the city's culinary landscape offers a multitude of options to satisfy your cravings.
Our Top 6 Best sarmale
Sarmale si Sarmale
Restaurant Bucătărașul
Strada Olteni 3, București 030741
Google Reviews
Eren
The food was great. Calm atmosphere. Also thanks to Mr. Dan for his kind service and attitude :)
Marijn
Food tasted good, various options. Price-quality is amazing!
Lee
Fantastic meal. Wandered out of the old town to try and get a taste of Romania. This place did not disappoint. I had the Mici which was cooked to perfection, and had the most wonderful mustard sauce to accompany. My wife had the Chicken Schnitzel, which could have fed an army. Very friendly service and very reasonably priced. I would undoubtedly recommend this to anyone visit the city.
Zexe
Google Reviews
Hotto
Mâncarea este excelentă. Servirea este bună și foarte bună, această din urmă evaluare vizând în special doamnele și domnii din categoria "Veterani Zece". Chipuri familiare, glume bine rostite, frumos plasate, excelent servite. Dacă intuiția vă spune că un comentariu precum "mâncarea e nasoală, nu recomand" este nițel cam exagerat (și că strugurii sunt acrișori), vă asigur că intuiția nu vă înșeală. Mergeți liniștiți. Luați o ciorbă de burtă cu ardei iute (din ăla de scoate răutatea din om!), o cefuță de Mangalița, iar la final poate și-o prajiturică, și vedeți câte stele vă ies la evaluarea finală. Mie mi-au rezultat 5 (cinci). Cu coroniță.
Irina
Un restaurant elegant cu mancare bună și atmosferă plăcută. Perfect pentru un eveniment special.
Jéro
Très bon restaurant. Les meilleurs mititei que j'ai mangé et la salată de vinete est excellente. Je recommande !!
Caru' cu bere
Strada Stavropoleos 5, București 030081
Architecturally notable Romanian restaurant with wood paneling, stained-glass windows & a patio.
Google Reviews
karlito
You just have to see it - painted glass on walls, draculalike and interior, a couple hundred seats and lots of grilled trotters - ratcher not a place for vegans
Andreea
Costache Marius ne-a servit in seara asta foarte ospitalier si a avut grija de mancarea noastra. Un om foarte expert.
Claudiu
Good atmosphere and delicious food and great house beer! We went without a reservation and had no problem being seated, being given the choice of inside or out. Costache was a great waiter, attentive and informative. Appreciated him checking in if the food is to our liking not only at the end but also soon after it arrived. Highly recommend you give this place a try.
Vatra
Strada Ion Brezoianu 19, București 010131
Google Reviews
sarit
מסעדה מהממת, האוכל ממש אותנטי, אומנם לוקח להם זמן להכין את המנות אבל האוכל ממש טעים ושווה את ההמתנה (הפאפנש מעולה)
madalina
Am avut parte de o experiență minunată la restaurantul Vatra din București! Mâncarea a fost absolut delicioasă, cu gust autentic românesc, iar atmosfera tradițională a adăugat un farmec aparte. Servirea a fost impecabilă (Gabriela & Gabriel) promptă și prietenoasă. Recomand cu mare drag pentru oricine dorește să simtă savoarea bucătăriei românești într-un cadru autentic și plin de căldură!
Bilyana
Traditional Romania Cuisine
Lacrimi și Sfinți
Strada Șepcari 16, București 030167
Google Reviews
Daan
The food was ok, nothing surprising to be honest. the prices are definitely high for what you get. We had a bottle of wine for 2 people and paid 400 lei in total
Brice
Très cher pour Bucarest. Sarmale très bon. La charcuterie très mauvaise. Serveuse qui ne parle pas anglais malheureusement. Le rapport qualité prix n'est pas bon.
elly
Het eten voldeed niet aan onze verwachtingen Vooral het dessert viel erg tegen en was eigenlijk oneetbaar De bedoening gebeurde weinig vriendelijk Er was een grote groep die veel lawaai maakte