After traveling through much of the Balkans we grew to love the traditional foods of the region. The hearty meats, strong beers, and flavorful salads quickly became a staple in our diet. So when we arrived to Lake Ohrid in Macedonia we were excited to see what new cuisine was in store for us. With that said, the food in Macedonia honestly surprised us! It’s full of traditional influences much like Slovenia and Montenegro, but at the same time the Ohrid restaurants were very unique. From light lunches at Dr. Falafel to elaborate Macedonian dinners at Vkusno Salim Usta, get ready for a food lovers day in the beautiful town of Lake Ohrid!

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Breakfast

Where: Bakery & Zhigolo Coffee Bar

Order: Pastry & Coffee

Location: Bakery & Zhigolo Coffee Bar

To start your day first head to this bakery which has been around since 1948. You can’t find this local shop online, but it’s right next Pink Panther fast food. Here you’ll find everything from traditional byreks to sweet morning treats. Pick out your pastry of choice and make sure to get it to go. Why would you get your food in Macedonia to go do you ask? Well, just a short walk away will take you straight down to the gorgeous lake!

Along the water there’s a small cafe packed at all times of day with locals enjoying espressos, beers, and other refreshments. Pull up a chair, order a coffee, and enjoy your bakery treats while overlooking beautiful Lake Ohrid. After breakfast you can even walk out on the long jetty and have a refreshing morning dip in the lake.

Lunch

Where: Dr. Falafel

Order: Falafel Plate

Location: 7mi Noemvri br.8, Ohrid

Upon arriving to Lake Ohrid in Macedonia you’ll immediately notice all the Turkish influence throughout town. Once you dive deeper, you’ll even see there’s an entire Turkish zone to enjoy! Near here is a small shop called Dr. Falafel. With only a few tables, this spot has the reputation for being one of the best Ohrid restaurants serving vegetarian and vegan food.

This become our go-to lunch place as we knew we were often in for a larger meal at dinner. The falafel plate is a massive pile of veggies, freshly made falafel, and delicious hummus with tahini sauce. All ingredients are fresh and the falafel balls are hot and made to order!

Dessert

Where: Cafe Dva Bisera

Order: Ice Cream of Choice

Location: St Clement of Ohrid Square

Why have your dessert after lunch? In all honesty you will be so full from dinner that there’s a good chance you won’t be able to indulge later on! We love having something sweet in the afternoon, but of course you can wait until night time if you prefer. Cafe Dva Bisera bar has a large ice cream case with over 20 different options. Enjoy delicious flavors like Nutella, yogurt, and even forest berry to choose from!

Afternoon Drinks

Where: Cuba Libre Beach & Bar

Order: Wine or Beer

Location: Kej Makedonija, Ohrid

We found Cuba Libre Beach & Bar during our bike ride along the lake, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular lakeside Ohrid restaurants! Overlooking the water with the beautiful town in the distance, you can order some late afternoon drinks while cooling down in the crystal clear water. If you’d like some snacks they have plenty to sort through as well with an extensive menu.

Dinner

Where: Vkusno Salim Usta

Order: Macedonian Salad, Cevapi, Sudzuk Sausage, and Baked Beans

Location: Vkusno Salim Usta City Center

We live by one simple foodie rule while traveling, and it’s never steered us wrong. When you walk by a restaurant packed full of people it’s a must to stop in and try it! While the rest of the Ohrid restaurants in the Turkish zone are decently full, Vkusno Salim Usta restaurant is SLAMMED at all times. Hands down, this was the best traditional food in Macedonia that we had during our visit.

So what’s the perfect order? For the two of us we split a large Macedonian salad, baked beans, cevapi plate, and sudzuk spicy sausage. Oh, and of course some traditional Skopsko beers to wash it all down! You will leave Vkusno Salim Usta super full, and with a new appreciation for the food in Macedonia. Also, make sure to peak through the window and check out the grill master as he cooks hundreds of cevapi sausage links at once.

Have you been to Lake Ohrid in Macedonia and eaten any must try foods? Please let us know in the comments below! Otherwise, reach out if you have any questions about these amazing Ohrid restaurants.

Safe Travels,

Brigitte & Jake

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Where to Stay in Lake Ohrid Macedonia

Fun Vacation (Mid Range) – Villa Varosh – Large modern rooms with beautiful views. Make sure to treat yourself to lake view for your stay in Macedonia’s finest vacation town! Villa Varosh is also walking distance to the town and all major attractions.

Travel Couple (Longterm Travel) – Villa Old Town – This was our favorite of the Lake Ohrid hotels we stayed at by far! Amazing view from the balcony, and just a short walk up the hill in the heart of old town.

Hostel Life (Budget) – Sunny Lake Hostel – Located in a quiet area, but still close to everything. All rooms come with a balcony and breakfast is included!

For more hotels in Lake Ohrid Macedonia you can explore the latest prices here!

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