RESTAURANTS
NATIONAL CUISINE
Must-Try
Panrkhash
Panrkhash is one of the oldest and traditional dishes of Armenian cuisine. It was prepared in almost all provinces, and has come down to us especially from the cuisine of Mush. Although the cooking method is simple, the dish is extremely satisfying and has a unique charm. Its name is made up of a combination of ingredients and cooking method. The main ingredients of Panrkhash are lavash, Chechil cheese, onion, virgin olive oil, and boiled water.
In different provinces, the dish was prepared in different ways: with string cheese or grated cheese, sometimes with dry lavash or stale bread. In some places, fried onions, red pepper, garlic, and even eggs were added. Regardless of the cooking method, Panrkhash has always carried the collective charm of tasting the dish.
NATIONAL DRINKS
Must-Try
Armenian wines: a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts
Armenia is one of the oldest winemaking centers in the world, with a history spanning thousands of years. Winemaking in Armenia is not just a craft, but a part of culture.
In 2007, an archaeological expedition discovered the world’s oldest winemaking complex in the Areni-1 (Birds) cave near the village of Areni. The vessels found here, with wine residues, grape seeds and winemaking tools, jugs and a wine press, testify that wine was produced in Armenia as early as 6000 BC. On that occasion, Armenia was recognized as the oldest country of wine production in 2011.
According to biblical tradition, Noah, descending from Mount Ararat, planted the first vine, laying the foundation for the tradition of winemaking in the territory of Armenia. Greek historians Herodotus, Xenophon and Strabo mention that Armenian wines and spirits have been exported to neighboring countries since ancient times due to their high quality.
