Food In Matosavank Monastery

Food History of Matosavank Monastery, Dilijan, Armenia

Matosavank Monastery, located in the forested area near Dilijan, is not known for a distinct food history separate from the Armenian culinary traditions of the surrounding region. The monastery, built in the 13th century, would have been a place where monks consumed simple and modest meals. The food would have largely been vegetarian due to the religious practices of fasting and abstinence from animal products on certain days. Armenian cuisine itself is characterized by a rich blend of flavors influenced by the various cultures and nations it has interacted with throughout history.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Dilijan, Armenia for Tourists

Dilijan offers a variety of Armenian culinary delights. Here are the top 10 dishes to try, with indications of whether they are vegetarian (Veg) or non-vegetarian (Non-Veg) for your convenience:

1. Ghapama (Veg): A traditional stuffed pumpkin dish that is often cooked during festive seasons.
2. Dolma (Veg option available): Grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice and herbs. There are meatless versions which are suitable for vegetarians.
3. Zhingyalov hats (Veg): A type of flatbread stuffed with finely diced herbs and green vegetables.
4. Lavash (Veg): An Armenian traditional thin bread that pairs perfectly with a variety of dips and spreads.
5. Basturma (Non-Veg): Seasoned, air-dried cured beef which is not made from cow meat.
6. Spas (Veg): A yogurt-based soup typically served warm and is sometimes made with barley or rice.
7. Vegetable Kebabs (Veg): Skewered and grilled vegetables, seasoned with Armenian spices.
8. Hatsapuri (Veg): Armenian cheese bread similar to Georgian khachapuri, often served as a hearty snack.
9. Manti (Non-Veg): Dumplings filled with spiced meat. However, vegetarian options may be available in some restaurants.
10. Armenian Pickles (Veg): Known as "Tourshi," these pickled vegetables accompany most meals, giving them a unique zest.

Top Famous Restaurants in Dilijan, Armenia

Dilijan has several restaurants that serve both traditional Armenian dishes and international cuisine. Here are some of the top restaurants in Dilijan where you can enjoy these dishes:

Kchuch Restaurant

Address: Tufenkian Old Dilijan Complex, Dilijan
Famous Food: Traditional Armenian cuisine with both Veg and Non-Veg options.

Cafe #2 by Tufenkian

Address: Sharambeyan Street, Dilijan
Famous Food: Local and seasonal dishes, has Veg and Non-Veg options.

Haghartsin Restaurant

Address: Haghartsin Monastery Road, Dilijan
Famous Food: Lavash with different fillings, and a variety of Armenian specialties, offers Veg and Non-Veg.

La Terrace Café-Bistro

Address: Myasnikyan Street, Dilijan
Famous Food: European dishes with Armenian influence, both Veg and Non-Veg options available.

Dili Cafe

Address: Kamo Street, Dilijan
Famous Food: Cozy café offering desserts, sandwiches, and coffee, primarily Veg.

These are some of the notable eateries where you can experience the local flavors of Dilijan. Other dining places can be found throughout the city offering Armenian traditional dishes and contemporary cuisine, catering to a range of dietary preferences.