Best Cluj-Napoca restaurants, coffee spots and bars guide

If you are travelling to Cluj-Napoca for the first time and are wondering where to find the best restaurants or coffee spots, I can help! As a Romanian native who lived 3 years in Cluj-Napoca, I have experienced everything Cluj-Napoca restaurants have to offer.

Cluj-Napoca’s food scene is truly special, standing out not only as the heart of Transylvania but as a crossroads of Romanian, Hungarian, and Saxon influences that have shaped it over centuries. What sets Cluj’s restaurants apart is their mix of traditional dishes and the city’s youthful, creative energy and cosmopolitan flair.

Dining in Cluj-Napoca is not just about the food, but about the atmosphere: whether you’re savoring a rustic meal in a centuries-old cellar, enjoying alfresco dining in a leafy courtyard, or sampling street food at a lively festival, you’ll find that the city’s restaurants offer a warm welcome and a true taste of local life. For visitors, exploring Cluj’s traditional cuisine is an essential part of experiencing the city’s authentic spirit and diverse cultural tapestry.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best restaurants in Cluj-Napoca to taste the most beloved traditional Romanian food, the best vegan options, and the top spots for coffee, dessert, and nightlife, all based on personal experience.

Let´s dive into this mouthwatering experience!

Want a printable checklist of attractions, best hotels, restaurants, foods to try and tips on public transportation? Download my free Cluj Starter Pack! Perfect for first-time visitors.

Cluj-Napoca’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its neighborhoods, with distinct food “hot spots” scattered across its neighborhoods, each offering a unique dining experience and atmosphere.

The historic Centru (Old Town) is undoubtedly the epicenter of Cluj’s restaurant scene, where winding cobblestone streets are lined with everything from elegant bistros and traditional Romanian taverns to lively bars and specialty coffee shops. Here, you’ll find many of the city’s most acclaimed eateries, such as Roata, Casa Maramureșeană, and Vărzărie Restaurant, all celebrated for their authentic Transylvanian dishes and welcoming ambiance. The main squares – Piața Unirii and Piața Muzeului – are surrounded by popular terraces and cafés, making them ideal for people-watching or enjoying a meal outdoors during the warmer months.

For breakfast and brunch lovers, Centru is home to some of the best morning and breakfast spots in the city, including Eggcetera, Dot (District of Toast), and the chic Olivo Bistro, all praised for their fresh ingredients, creative menus, and stylish interiors. Bujole, with its prime location overlooking Piața Unirii, offers a Parisian café vibe and is a favorite for both breakfast and specialty coffee, especially when enjoyed on its spacious summer terrace.

Just a short stroll from the center, the neighborhoods of Andrei Mureșanu and Grigorescu hide garden restaurants and cozy cafés that are perfect for a quieter, more local dining experience.

If you’re seeking a meal with a view, Cluj-Napoca will not disappoint you. Rochelle Restaurant & Pub, for example, is set right on the banks of the Someșul Mic River and features a terrace with water views, making it a popular choice for both daytime relaxation and evening gatherings. 

Many other establishments offer alfresco dining in leafy courtyards or near the city’s historic parks, such as Central Park (Parcul Central), where you’ll find both casual cafés and elegant restaurants that invite you to linger over coffee or dessert in a tranquil setting.

The city’s bar and nightlife scene is equally dynamic, with the Old Town hosting a concentration of trendy cocktail bars, craft beer pubs, and music venues. Notable spots like PRIVÉ, Che Guevara Social Pub, The Soviet, and Colin’s Gastro Pub are renowned for their creative drinks, lively ambiance, and frequent live music events, drawing both locals and visitors for a memorable night out. 

For those who appreciate specialty coffee, Cluj-Napoca boasts a thriving café culture, with standout venues such as Narcoffee, Roots, Coffee Addicts, and Espresso Studio serving expertly brewed coffee and fostering a welcoming, creative atmosphere.

Romanian food is a celebration of the country’s agricultural roots and multicultural influences, with Transylvania adding its own distinctive twists. Cabbage, pork, potatoes, hearty soups and fluffy pastry are essentials of the food scene in Cluj-Napoca. However, the food scene has been subject of a dynamic development in the last year, adding an innovative touch to traditional recipes.

The best way to explore Romanian cuisine is taking a food guide through Cluj-Napoca, which is also a great opportunity to make friends and get to know the city better.

If you are travelling to Cluj-Napoca for the first time and don’t know what to order in a Romanian restaurant, here is a quick overview of traditional foods.

• Ciorbă de burtă (Tripe Soup): A beloved Romanian classic, this creamy, tangy soup is made with beef tripe, vegetables, and plenty of sour cream, often served with chili peppers and extra sour cream on the side. It’s a true comfort food and a staple in traditional restaurants, though its bold flavor is something you’ll either love from the first spoonful or never want to try again.
• Ciorbă de fasole cu ciolan (Bean Soup with Smoked Pork): Another favorite, especially on chilly days, this hearty soup features tender beans and smoked pork, often presented in an edible bread bowl for extra rustic charm.
• Ciorbă de perişoare (Meatball Soup): A lighter, vegetable-based soup with juicy pork or beef meatballs, rice, and herbs, making it a comforting and healthy way to start your meal2.
• Salată de vinete (Eggplant Salad): A popular appetizer throughout Romania, this creamy spread is made from roasted eggplant, mayonnaise, and onions or garlic, served with fresh bread and perfect for sharing1.
• Jumări cu ceapă (Pork Rinds with Onions): A crunchy, savory snack made from pork cracklings, typically served with slices of red onion-a true taste of Romanian countryside traditions.

• Varză à la Cluj (Cluj-style Layered Cabbage): The city’s signature dish, this hearty casserole layers sour cabbage, minced meat (usually pork and beef), rice, and herbs, then bakes it all together for a comforting, flavorful result. Each restaurant has its own twist, and locals will insist you haven’t truly visited Cluj until you’ve tried it.
• Sarmale (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls): Perhaps the most famous Romanian dish, sarmale are pickled cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of minced meat, rice, and spices, usually served with creamy polenta (mămăligă) and a generous dollop of sour cream.
• Mămăligă cu brânză și smântână (Polenta with Cheese and Sour Cream): This comforting dish can be enjoyed as a main course or a side, featuring layers of creamy polenta, tangy sheep’s cheese, and rich sour cream-sometimes topped with crispy bacon for extra flavor.
• Gulaș (Goulash): Reflecting Cluj’s multicultural heritage, this Hungarian-inspired stew is made with tender beef or pork, vegetables, and paprika, and can be served as a thick soup or a hearty main dish.
• Tocăniță de pui (Chicken Stew): A homey, satisfying stew of chicken, vegetables, and tomato sauce, often served with polenta and pickles.
• Mici (Mititei): Skinless grilled sausages made from a blend of beef, pork, and spices, typically served with mustard and fresh bread. These are a favorite street food and often appear on mixed grill platters.

• Papanași: The undisputed star of Romanian desserts, papanași are fried or boiled doughnuts made with sweet cheese, topped with sour cream and fruit jam. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they’re irresistible and found on nearly every traditional menu in Cluj-Napoca.
• Cozonac: Especially popular during holidays, cozonac is a sweet, fluffy bread filled with nuts, cocoa, or Turkish delight, and can sometimes be found in local bakeries and dessert shops.
• Clătite (Romanian Pancakes): Thin pancakes filled with homemade fruit jams, sweet cheese, or chocolate, often served as a light dessert or afternoon treat.
• Gogoși: Soft, airy doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar and sometimes filled with jam or chocolate, perfect for a quick sweet snack.

Romanian meals are often accompanied by a glass of robust local wine or a shot of țuică, the fiery plum brandy that’s a staple of Transylvanian hospitality.

If you are looking for an authentic taste of Romania in Cluj-Napoca, there are several restaurants that consistently stand out for their dedication to traditional recipes, generous portions, and warm atmosphere.

Roata is widely regarded as the city’s top destination for traditional Romanian food, with its outstanding sarmale, rich stews, and unforgettable desserts like papanași and homemade apple pie.

Roata’s staff are known for their hospitality, often welcoming guests with complimentary shots of sour cherry liqueur or țuică (pum brandy) and helping visitors navigate the menu in English. The restaurant’s cozy interior and lush garden create a magical setting, making it perfect for both casual lunches and special occasions. Diners consistently highlight the hot Transylvanian platter as a must-try, allowing you to sample a variety of local flavors in one meal. While prices are slightly higher than average, the quality, portion size, and overall experience are worth the money.

Casa Maramureșeană brings the rustic flavors of the Maramureș region to the city center, specializing in grilled fish, hearty soups, and unique dishes like Clopul Moroșanului (“The Hat of the Man from Maramureș”). The ambiance is friendly and unpretentious, and the menu is packed with regional specialties that celebrate Romania’s rural heritage.

Bistro 1568 offers a more refined take on Transylvanian classics, combining historical recipes with modern culinary techniques. The romantic garden and atmospheric dining room make it a favorite for special nights out, and while prices are on the higher side, the creativity and quality of the food make it worth to try.

Boierul and Dacilor are also beloved for their commitment to traditional Romanian hospitality and flavors, with menus featuring everything from slow-cooked stews to grilled meats and homemade pickles. Dacilor, in particular, is noted for its immersive old-world décor and hearty, satisfying portions.

While traditional Romanian food with its hearty meat dishes can seem as quite a challenge for vegan eaters, I have some good news for vegan visitors: Cluj-Napoca stands out as one of Romania’s most vegan-friendly cities, with an impressive array of plant-based restaurants and cafes catering to locals and visitors alike. 

Samsara Foodhouse is a perennial favorite, celebrated for its inventive vegan and vegetarian dishes, cozy atmosphere, and attentive service. The restaurant’s curries, stews, and creative desserts are amazing, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking vegan and flavorful options. 

Other top picks include Eggcetera, renowned for its vegan brunches and excellent coffee, and Rawana, which specializes in raw vegan cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. 

Many mainstream restaurants in Cluj-Napoca also offer vegan and vegetarian choices, so you’ll never have trouble finding a satisfying meal regardless of your dietary preferences.

If you are visiting Cluj-Napoca for the first time, the Old Town (Centru) is your perfect starting point, as it concentrates many of the city’s most beloved coffee spots and sweet shops within walking distance of the main squares and attractions.

Among the top-rated cafés, Meron Napoca stands out for its strong, aromatic coffee and modern, inviting atmosphere, consistently earning praise from locals and travelers alike for both its espresso drinks and attentive service. Bujole, located right on Piața Unirii, is another must-visit, offering the best coffee in Cluj, along with a stylish setting and a tempting breakfast menu that makes it ideal for a leisurely morning or afternoon break after sightseeing.

If you are in the mood for a cozy, intimate vibe, Bondia Cafe is the place to be for a hot chocolate and relaxing ambiance-perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

When it comes to desserts and pastries, Cluj-Napoca’s bakeries and patisseries offer a mouthwatering selection that blends Romanian, Hungarian, and international influences. Un Dulce de la Vlad Mureșan is a standout for its exceptional cakes and what many claim are the best croissants in town, with a cozy atmosphere that invites you to linger over your treat. 

Panemar, a local bakery chain with several locations including a spacious, elegantly designed shop in the city center, is famous not only for its fresh bread but also for their apple strudel or cheese-filled pastries.

If you are looking for vegan or raw desserts, Atelier Dulce Amarui offers a colorful variety of raw vegan cakes, truffles, and tarts that are sugar-free, gluten-free, and highly praised for their flavor and creativity.

My favourite desserts in Romania and where to find these in Cluj-Napoca:

• Chocolate croissant from Un Dulce de la Vlad Mureșan  – buttery, flaky, and rich.
• Papanași from Roata – the classic Romanian cheese doughnut, served hot with sour cream and jam.
• Apple strudel from Panemar – a perfect balance of sweet, tart apples and delicate pastry.

Cluj-Napoca’s bar scene is as dynamic and diverse as its population, with a special energy fueled by the city’s large student community and youthful vibe. The city is home to Babeș-Bolyai University, one of the largest in Romania and also the university where I got my Bachelor degree.

During my 3 years as a student in Cluj-Napoca I also embraced the advantages of the nightlife in the city. For visitors seeking the heart of student nightlife, Piezisa Street in the Hașdeu neighborhood is legendary; lined with an array of lively bars, pubs, and terrace cafés, it’s the go-to destination for students and young locals looking to socialize, enjoy live music, and take advantage of wallet-friendly drink specials. On any given evening, Piezisa buzzes with laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses, offering a uniquely Cluj experience that’s both laid-back and full of energy.

In the Old Town, you’ll also find a dense concentration of bars and clubs catering to a variety of tastes. Flying Circus PUB is a local favorite, known for its creative cocktails, wide selection of beers, eclectic décor, and regular events ranging from live music to themed parties. Londoner Pub is another top pick, offering a classic pub atmosphere, a strong lineup of beers (including international favorites), and a consistently lively crowd. For something a bit more artistic and intimate, Insomnia Café & Bistro combines a cozy courtyard, creative drinks, and a bohemian ambiance that makes it a favorite among both students and locals.

Book a pub tour through Cluj-Napoca to experience the best that nightlife has to offer and meet new people!

Cluj-Napoca is packed with fantastic restaurants offering a mix of traditional Romanian cuisine and modern vibes. Navigating the food scene in a new city can be tricky if you are not familiar with local food and drinks.

That’s why I’ve shared my favorite spots to help you enjoy the best food Cluj-Napoca has to offer.

My favorite restaurant in Cluj-Napoca is Roata, which serves the best sarmale (cabbage rolls) and papanasi (cheese doughnuts) I have ever had (except for the ones my mom makes). Beware the portions can be gigantic!

We generally head for Bujole at Unirii Square to get coffee and fuel up for a little museum or shopping tour.

Now that you know where to find the best restaurants, coffee spots and bars in Cluj-Napoca, make sure to book the perfect hotel for your stay in the city and rent a car to see the beautiful surroundings of Cluj-Napoca. If you need some help on planning your trip to Cluj-Napoca, check out my complete guide for first-time visitors.

If you need help with planning your trip to Romania or consistent information on travel costs and budget, check out my complete guides to plan your visit in the best possible way!

Drum bun! (Have a nice trip!)