RESTAURANTS
NATIONAL CUISINE
Must-Try
Khash
Khash is an ancient Armenian dish, hot, filling, and symbolic. The name “Khash” comes from the Armenian word “khashel,” which describes the main method of cooking the dish. Other similar names have also come from this word: khashlama, khashu, khashil. Khash was mentioned as early as the 11th century, in Grigor Magistros’s work “The Comfort of Warmth.”
Making khash is a whole ritual, when men gather in the evening and cook the soup made from beef legs all night long, over low heat. It is traditionally served early in the morning, mainly in autumn, winter, and early spring. Khash lovers eagerly await the months that contain the letter “r” in their names: from September to April.
NATIONAL DRINKS
Must-Try
Armenian herbal tea: a delicious and healing tradition
Armenia is a country rich in history, culture and traditions, and an integral part of these traditions is the use of herbal tea. For centuries, Armenian herbal tea has been both a delicious and healing drink, combining the power of nature and folk wisdom. Armenian teas are made from fresh or dried flowers, leaves, seeds, fruits and roots of various plants. The most famous infusions are thyme, mint, lovage, chamomile, pomegranate, etc. One of the most favorite among the locals is a tincture with thyme or mint, or both together. Herbal teas, in addition to being delicious, also have numerous health benefits. They are a natural and effective way to treat various diseases, and their use is deeply rooted in Armenian culture and traditions. Chamomile calms the nervous system and helps relieve stress, mint improves digestion, sage is known for its anti-inflammatory effect, can help relieve sore throats and coughs, thyme strengthens the immune system.