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7 nights
Dishes and drinks you just can’t miss in North Macedonia
North Macedonian food mixes flavours from the Med and Balkans to make dishes that are big on taste and super satisfying. And of course, you’ll find tempting tipples to sip alongside your meals too.
You’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants tucked into Ohrid’s cobbled lanes, as well as along the lakeside. So whether you’re lunching out or tucking in at your hotel buffet, make sure you give these local specialities a try.
Tavče gravče (tav-chuh grav-chuh)
Seasoned with tangy paprika, simmered for several hours, and served straight from the oven in the clay pot it was cooked in – this is baked beans as you’ve never had them before.
Pastrmalija (pastra-maj-li-yah)
This pizza-style flatbread is traditionally topped with diced pork, and some places add an egg too. Enjoy yours like a local with a few spicy pickled peppers on the side.
Fish soup
Fresh lake fish is always on the menu in North Macedonia, so enjoy the catch of the day with this rustic soup that’s chock-full of chunky veg and fresh parsley – it’s comfort food in a bowl.
Makalo dip (mak-loh dip)
Pair this garlic dip with warm pitta bread or dollop it on grilled meat. And to add some extra flavours to the mix, look out for versions with tomatoes, roast peppers or chillies in too.
Shopska (shop-ska)
Start your meal the North Macedonian way with this oh-so-fresh salad that’s usually made with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and tangy feta cheese, all drizzled with local sunflower oil.
Selsko meso (sel-skoh meh-so)
Pork, mushrooms and white wine go into making this stew, which is slow-cooked for around four hours to make the sauce super rich. Order it with a side of bread so you can mop up every last drop.
Kozinjak (koz-nee-ak)
A sweet, soft bread made with lemon zest and stuffed with sweet raisins, this is North Macedonia’s version of the hot cross bun.
Baklava (baa-klah-vah)
Made from layers of thin, flaky pastry drizzled with honey and filled with chopped nuts, this bite-sized treat is the perfect way to round off a meal.
Skopsko beer (skop-skoh beer)
Crisp and refreshing, with a dash of malty flavour, a pint of Skopsko lager is just the ticket for those balmy summer evenings.
Vranec wine (v-ran-etz wine)
Savour the flavours of rich berry and spice in this red wine, which goes great with grilled meat or cheeses.
Rakija (ray-kee-ah)
Toast the day in true North Macedonian style by sipping the country’s go-to spirit – a fiery brandy made from yellow or white grapes.
Hungry for a holiday? Learn more about Lake Ohrid and check out our North Macedonia deals to book your trip.
Head to our Lakes & Mountains homepage to discover more about our favourite holidays.
Author: Mathew Robinson
Last updated: 25.03.2024