5 Best Restaurants in Black Sea Coast, Bulgaria

Sprawling over three floors in a lovely old house in the heart of Varna, this elegant restaurant with stone and wood décor much in evidence serves up some of the tastiest food in the city. There's also a pretty terrace for al fresco dining in summer. Stylish and delicious dishes such as guinea fowl fillet with warm tabouleh and veal jus are international in character but also display Bulgarian hints. As the name implies, there is also an extensive and well chosen wine list, and the helpful staff will advise on what suits your chosen meal best.

There are several branches of this simple Italian eatery around Varna. All have similar menus and standards of food, but this is the most central option. The décor is simple and the red and white check tablecloths somewhat cornily Italian, but the food is hearty and good, and for those on a budget the pastas and pizzas can be a welcome despite from barbecued meat.

Located in the ultra-stylish mOdus Hotel, this elegant bistro has a swish modern-styled dining area, as well as an outdoor glass-roofed garden terrace. Both make this a great place for a romantic and for an exceptionally tasty meal. The menu covers international classics such as porcini risotto, rabbit in Provencal sauce, and pepper steak, and its signature choices are regularly changing. Hotel guests are offered a 10% discount on the already reasonable bill.

One of several Nessebar restaurants that offers the winning combination of good, locally caught fish and unmissable sea views—especially at sunset—this place's biggest selling point is its large outdoor terrace, shaded by a long wooden pergola. Because of the massive portion sizes, the excellent salads are often a good option unless you are ravenous. Several meaty Bulgarian classics are offered, and the grilled prawns are particularly good. The prices are very reasonable to boot. During the peak summer months there is live music some nights.

The historic city of Nessebar has several good dining options, and the place named after the town is one of the best. Located right on the coast, the tables on the terrace are right by the water. You can be sure of a friendly welcome here, and the food—from fresh-caught fish to the grilled meats specials that pepper restaurant menus across the Balkans—is both tasty and hearty, as well as being an exceptionally good value.