Considered one of the best events of its kind, the Untold Festival in Cluj (August 6–9, 2026) is a world of its own. Once you step into the “bubble” in Central Park, you’ll find everything you need—besides the music, of course, which is everywhere, on stages both large and small.
The food area is no exception—on the contrary, it’s one of the key elements that helps fund the festival. Still, if you’re in Cluj, it would be a shame not to get a feel for the city during the breaks between the shows you’re interested in. And if you head out on the town, it doesn’t hurt to check out some of Cluj’s most special spots—we’ve made sure to include them on the way to the recommended venues…
A bowl of soup at Zama
If you’re in the mood for something light—like soup—you can stop by Zama. Coming from Central Park, the restaurant is right at the entrance to Cluj’s Old Town, on Napoca Street, near the Central University Library and the apartment building where Lucian Blaga lived during the last years of his life: since you’re already in Cluj, it’s worth taking a look at a few cultural landmarks.
Back to Zama, in a very welcoming space with a design that blends the new with the old—just like the cuisine there—you’ll have your pick from about ten “zămuri”, a regionalism used for soups.
If you’re looking for something more specific to the region, you can choose the “șelată verde cu zăr și ou hiert”, a soup made from lettuce, whey and a boiled egg, or the “picioci cu tarcăn”, that mean potato soup with tarragon.
Another spectacular dish, thanks to its successful reinterpretation, is the “balmeș cu pâcă”, a traditional Transylvanian dish that combines classic balmoș (cornmeal cooked in whey/sour cream with cheese) with ‘pâcă’ (a rich Transylvanian stew or sauce, often made with sour cream, bacon and smoked sausages.
Perfect for eating on the go: pizza from Il Forno
If you’re in a hurry or don’t feel like sitting down for a meal, try a slice of pizza from Il Forno: it’s even praised by top chefs in Cluj!
You’ll find the place on “the street with the string lights” that connects one corner of Unirii Square to Casa Matei, an unmissable cultural landmark in Cluj—one of the city’s oldest buildings, where Matthias Corvinus, son of Iancu de Hunedoara and future great king of Hungary, was born.
You can admire his equestrian statue while you eat pizza, since it’s just a stone’s throw away, in the center of Unirii Square. Since you’re already there, be sure to check out St. Michael’s Church as well.
“Culinary Archaeology” at “Vărzăria”
If, between concert sessions, you’ve developed a taste for visiting historical sites, the following recommendation truly qualifies as a historical landmark: “Vărzăria” on Eroilor Boulevard, one of the few restaurants to have survived the transition from communism to capitalism.
Although it has been constantly renovated in recent years, both the place and the staff still retain a touch of the old days. You’ll find many dishes that will stir up nostalgia, but if you have to try just one, then order the Cluj-style cabbage. Many places in Cluj make it well, but nowhere else will you find it quite like at “Vărzărie”!
Goulash at Bulgakov
In addition to Cluj-style cabbage, goulash is a must-try on any culinary “must-do” list. We recommend the goulash at Bulgakov, a now-historic spot in the city center, not far from the main campus of Babeș-Bolyai University. But the extensive menu, with its multicultural influences, also offers other surprises.
From Bulgakov, you can take a stroll down Potaissa Street, alongside Cluj’s medieval wall, and from there down the old “Ulița a Lupilor” (Alley of the Wolves), now Kogălniceanu Street, one of the most picturesque streets in the city. At the end of the street, you’ll find the statue of Saint George slaying the dragon, a faithful replica of the original bronze sculpture created by the Cluj sculptors Martin and Gheorghe in 1373 (!), which is located at the Prague Castle.
Experiences Beyond Taste
If you want to turn your visit to Cluj into an opportunity for more sophisticated experiences, we recommend three places where you simply can’t go wrong.
The first is Small Bar Bistro at 23 Ferdinand Street, run by renowned chef Silviu Chelaru (it’s best to make a dinner reservation in advance).
The second is Braseria Locală, run by Roland Suciu, one of Cluj’s most acclaimed chefs. In both cases, the delicious food is complemented by the venues’ enchanting atmosphere.
For a great atmosphere, you can also try the Klausen Burgen restaurant on the upper terrace of the Central department store: you’ll be treated to a dreamlike view, especially at sunset…
Don’t miss Cluj’s cultural treat!
And since you’re in Cluj with a taste for culture, you simply must try Cluj’s very own cultural dessert: “Doza de Cultură”! It’s a local sweet treat made of a biscuit roll filled with walnuts, hazelnuts, and salted caramel, served according to a recipe reinterpreted by the more than 40 establishments that support this project.
“Doza de Cultură” isn’t just a local culinary delight—it’s a project with a direct impact on the cultural scene in Cluj-Napoca. Ten percent of the price of every product sold goes into a special account, and at the end of the year, the entire amount will be awarded as a grant to a cultural organization!
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