Do you enjoy being home to mom? The Moldovans are spiritually connected to the house in which they grew up, so they worship the place where mother is. If you want to experience what it’s like to be received at a Moldovan mother’s house, then go to the restaurant “Acasă la mama” (“Home to Mom”). Here you have the chance to eat the tastiest homemade chicken soup served with flatbread and chili pepper. And, no doubts, if you taste the mămăliga (polenta) with fish and garlic sauce, you will not remain indifferent to our cuisine culture.
Acasa la mama
Embargo
Embargo is a quaint and beautifully designed Wine Bar and Shop where one can enjoy wines from all over Moldova and participate in tasting events. The name was inspired by the embargo imposed by Russia on Moldovan wines. This was a dramatic blow to the wine industry, but also the impetus in Moldova’s changing trajectory to focus on creating unique, high quality wines.
Popasul Dacilor
„Popasul Dacilor” restaurant was born out of the hosts’s love for history and nation. Built from river stone, with a facade made of stone from Ţâpova, the restaurant always succeeded to combine what is beautiful, pleasant and healthy. “Popasul Dacilor” seems to be detached from the daily reality. The authentic atmosphere of the place makes you want to feast on royal dishes. From the house specialty, “Popasul Dacilor” platter, to the duck stuffed with dolmas, from rib soup to the Moldavian tochitura (a kind of stew), from peasant toba (stuffed pork hog maw) to homemade pie – all of them can be tasted here, being cooked with a special care and love.
Flea market
If you like antiques, the flea market is for you. Here you will find a multitude of decorative ware, cups and dishes, and other items from yesteryear.
Crafts market
If you want to bring back mementos of Moldova, don’t miss the crafts market. Situated smack in the center of Chisinau, near the Organ Hall, it features the works of all kinds of Moldovan craftspeople. Traditional costume items include embroidered peasant blouses, waist sashes known as brau, embroidered catrinta aprons, decorated bundita vests, and leather peasant sandals known as opinci. The market also has ceramic and wood items, crocheted tablecloths, dolls, refrigerator magnets and other souvenirs. In addition, will find Soviet-era collectibles, such as postcards, military badges, and helmets, and ear-flap hats known as ushanka.
Chisinau Central Market
Welcome to the largest open-air market in Chisinau! Sprawling over several acres between Armeneasca, Metropolitan Varlaam and Tighina streets, it is half a block away from — and parallel to — the city’s main thoroughfare, Stefan cel Mare Avenue. You will find entrances on Armeneasca, Tighina and Columna streets. The Central Market is a crowded, colorful, must-visit bazaar, especially during summer, when delicious, natural local fruit and vegetables are available. In winter you will find virtually any type of food for sale as well, including fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and dairy products. The market also offers souvenirs, clothes, shoes, accessories, luggage and other items. Prices are negotiable, so don’t be afraid to haggle with the sellers.