Romania » Dining in Bucharest

Traditional Romanian foods are mamaliga (corn porridge often smothered with sour cream and cheese), sarmale (cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice), ciorba (a slightly spicy and sour soup stock), and sheep's-milk cheeses. Favored meats are usually pork and beef. Some places serve wine and water only by the bottle and not by the glass. Romanian coffee is served with grounds; instant coffee is called ness. To avoid being overcharged, ask for prices before you eat. Street vendors sell fragrant offerings like covrigi (giant pretzels) and roasted chestnuts.