RESTAURANTS
NATIONAL CUISINE
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Harissa
Harissa is a ritual and festive dish with deep national roots, which is prepared on solemn days as a symbol of unity, abundance and prosperity. The dish is prepared with wheat groats and meat (chicken, lamb or beef), which are cooked for a long time in water, constantly stirring with a wooden paddle, until it becomes a viscous mass. When serving, melted butter is poured over harissa. This composition is associated with the worship of wheat as a symbol of life and the longevity of the nation. According to tradition, when Gregory the Illuminator leaves Khor Virap and comes to Vagharshapat, he decides to organize a feast, that is, to invite and entertain the people gathered around the church. To prepare the dish, he slaughters sheep and calls on the young people to knead the food: “Knead this.” From this expression, the name “harissa” originated.
NATIONAL DRINKS
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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.
