After two visits to Craiova and its magical Christmas market (in 2024 and 2025), we dedicate a separate article to our dining suggestions in the city. During the Christmas period, restaurants are often overcrowded and booked weeks in advance, so it is advisable to make a reservation (where possible). Here you will find options featuring traditional Romanian cuisine, perfect breakfast (brunch), and boutique sweets! Here are our suggestions for places to eat in Craiova!
💡The headings with the names of the places are a link leading to the exact location.
Curtea Berarilor Craiova
Our main favorite for dinner is the beerhouse Curtea Berarilor Craiova! We had visited a restaurant from the same chain in Bucharest and were charmed even then. After two visits to the one in Craiova, we are now sure: the place is great! Both times we ordered many different things and were not disappointed. The food is fantastic, and the prices are good. Be sure to make a reservation in advance! Our definite favorite are the small Romanian kebabs (mici), but the pleskavica (Balkan meat patty) is also excellent. We also tried ribs, knuckle, meat platters, and desserts, and everything was up to standard. And the beer? It is always fresh and abundant!
Nolla Brunch
If you are a fan of a lazy start to the day, with a delicious brunch and good coffee, you can safely head to Nolla Brunch. But keep in mind that the space is very small… We were among the first visitors, and only about 30 minutes after us, a queue of people was already forming outside… In the menu, you will find modern breakfast options, stylishly served and very delicious. The Eggs Benedict with salmon were perfect, with a fine and delicate taste! Combined with the inviting, modern atmosphere, Nolla is definitely a perfect choice for breakfast in Craiova.
12 Doişpe
12 Doişpe is a great breakfast (brunch) option in Craiova! I’ll start with the staff – they were helpful and friendly. Even though we didn’t have a reservation, they managed to put a few tables together and accommodate us (6 adults and 5 children). The menu offers a variety of food and coffee options, and everything we tried was fresh and delicious! The food took a little while to arrive, but after all, we did order quite a few things at once… The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere, in a slightly vintage style, is very pleasant.
Minerva by Bottega
We wanted to enter Minerva by Bottega during our first visit to the city, but we encountered huge queues and didn’t succeed… Fortunately, we made it on the second attempt – again with a wait, but a short one. Its aristocratic interior, combined with the Christmas decorations and the beautiful, huge Christmas tree, create a unique atmosphere that exudes warmth and coziness!
We struggled a bit to choose a dessert in front of the laden display cases, but we finally settled on only two – they truly were great! Keep in mind that, given the popularity of the place, the staff is overworked and a bit chaotic. Nevertheless, the overall experience is worth it.
ECLER by DesserTime
During a winter visit, you will certainly want a cup of hot tea and a delicious dessert at some point. Then head to ECLER by DesserTime, where the desserts are impressive! Here you will find a true boutique indulgence – from classic éclairs to modern cakes, all of which look perfect. And they are exceptionally delicious! The place is very pleasant, with tables on the upper floor where you can warm up, relax, and enjoy a calm and cozy atmosphere away from the crowds.
For a final
If you feel like complementing your city walks with a cup of aromatic cappuccino, our favorite brand 5 To Go has a convenient location near the center – they are an inseparable part of our visit to Craiova. Also, don’t miss our favorite Romanian bakery – LUCA, where we always grab fresh pastries!
