Food & Drinks at Rila Monastery

From the famous monastery-made mekitsi to hearty mountain trout, discover the traditional tastes available right at the monastery's doorstep.

While you cannot eat or drink inside the monastery courtyard, several excellent options are located just outside the gates, offering a taste of local Bulgarian cuisine. A visit isn't complete without trying the famous fried pastry from the monastery bakery. Remember to bring cash (BGN), as card payments are uncommon. See our visitors guide for more practical tips.

Local Flavours and Where to Find Them

The Monastery Bakery

The one culinary experience you must not miss is a "mekitsa" from the monastery's own bakery. Located in a small building just outside one of the gates, this simple shop serves delicious, hot, freshly fried dough pastries, often dusted with powdered sugar. Follow the queue of locals and visitors—it's a beloved tradition and the perfect snack.

Local Restaurants

Several restaurants are situated along the river just outside the monastery walls. Their specialty is freshly grilled or fried mountain trout, sourced from the local area. They also serve other Bulgarian classics like Shopska salad, bean soup (bob chorba), and grilled meats. These offer a hearty sit-down meal with beautiful views of the surrounding forest.

Important Tips

Bring cash in Bulgarian Lev (BGN). The bakery and many of the restaurants do not accept credit cards. The ATM at the monastery is frequently out of service, so it's essential to come prepared. You can also find stalls selling local honey, jams, and souvenirs near the restaurants.

A Taste of Tradition

Eating at Rila is part of the overall experience. The food is simple, traditional, and reflects the mountain environment. The monastery has a long history of self-sufficiency, and the local restaurants continue this tradition by using fresh, local ingredients.

Most day tours from Sofia allocate free time specifically for lunch, allowing you to choose between a quick bite at the bakery or a more leisurely meal at one of the riverside restaurants before the journey back to the city. It's the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring the monastery's art and history.

Food & Drinks FAQ

What to eat and what to know

Can I bring my own food?
You can bring your own food, but you cannot eat it inside the monastery courtyard. You can enjoy a picnic in the beautiful nature park surrounding the monastery.
Are there vegetarian options available?
Yes, the local restaurants offer excellent vegetarian dishes, including Shopska salad (a famous Bulgarian salad with cheese), grilled vegetables, and traditional bean soup (bob chorba).
Do I need to book a table at the restaurants?
No, reservations are generally not necessary. The restaurants are accustomed to handling the daily flow of tourists, though you may have a short wait during peak lunch hours in the summer.
How much does a meal cost?
Prices are very reasonable. A "mekitsa" from the bakery costs only a couple of Leva. A main course like grilled trout at a restaurant typically costs between 10-15 BGN (~€5-€8).
Is the water from the monastery fountains drinkable?
Yes, the water from the public fountains (cheshmi) in the courtyard is fresh, cold mountain spring water and is safe to drink. It's a great way to refill your water bottle.
Book a Tour