KEEP CALM AND EAT BULGARIAN BANITSA

That morning in Sofia, the chilly air beckoned us to leave the Intercontinental Hotel, opting instead for the neatly arranged breakfast. Instead, we opted for a small bakery called Furna – a warm bakery filled with the aroma of fresh bread and cinnamon, as if standing in front of someone else's kitchen door. On the pinewood walls inside, a chalkboard sign read: “KEEP CALM AND EAT BULGARIAN BANITSA” A phrase reflecting Bulgarian food culture, “banitsa” is a crispy, layered pastry filled with Bulgarian white cheese, eggs, and sometimes spinach or minced meat. It's a breakfast staple for Bulgarian families for hundreds of years, often served with yogurt and black coffee, a comforting start to the day. We sat down at a light wooden table, set our cups of black coffee down, and the steam slowly rose. The strong, bitter coffee contrasted the salty, rich flavor of the banitsa, while the thin, crispy outside and soft inside were perfectly balanced by the salty cheese. Each bite is packed with textures. Besides Banitsa, there's also a cinnamon roll topped with a creamy white icing that melts into the soft, fluffy bread. The cinnamon aroma is just right, not too sweet. It's perfect when paired with a strong black coffee. Sfogliatelle is a crispy, thin puff pastry filled with cream cheese and jam. The sweet and slightly sour notes create a fun twist on the palate. In Bulgaria, there's an old belief that Banitsa isn't just a food, but also a sign of good fortune for the New Year. Some families hide "little prophecies" or coins inside the dough, allowing each member to pick their own piece, as if to make a prediction for the year. If you're a fan of high-quality bakery goods and a warm, friendly atmosphere, this is the place to be. Things to Try: • Banitsa (Highly recommended, signature) • Cinnamon Roll and Croissant – European-style bakery items that are well-made • Black coffee or cappuccino complement the atmosphere. Tips: • Limited seating available. If you arrive late, it might be full, so arrive early. • For a truly cultural experience, order Banitsa with Bulgarian yogurt. Get the authentic, local breakfast feel. #tripbestfreeaccommodation #Sofia #Bulgaria #FurnaBakery #Banitsa #EuropeTrip #CafesAbroad #TravelBulgaria #CafeHopping