Street Food in Yerevan
Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is a city where tradition meets modernity—and that harmony is beautifully reflected in its vibrant street food culture. For travelers who love to explore a destination through its flavors, Yerevan offers a rich and diverse palette of tastes. From savory meats and freshly baked breads to sweet pastries and unique beverages, the streets of this ancient city are filled with culinary surprises.
Unlike some cities known for bustling food trucks and crowded night markets, Yerevan’s street food scene is more subtle. It lives in bakeries, roadside vendors, small kiosks, and local markets, where every bite tells a story about Armenian heritage and hospitality.
This guide introduces some of the must-try street foods and where to find them on your next visit to Yerevan.
1. Khorovats (Armenian Barbecue)
One of the first things any food lover should try in Yerevan is khorovats, the Armenian version of barbecue. Made with marinated pork, beef, or chicken, khorovats is grilled over an open flame and typically served with lavash (a traditional flatbread) and fresh vegetables.
Although khorovats is often associated with backyard celebrations and sit-down restaurants, you can also find it in casual eateries and roadside grills. Places like Proshyan Street Market and some stalls around Komitas Avenue offer quick, smoky, and satisfying versions of this national favorite.
2. Lahmajo (Armenian Pizza)
Lahmajo is a thin flatbread topped with minced meat, tomatoes, onions, and spices, then baked in a wood-fired oven. This snack is light, flavorful, and perfect for eating on the go.
You’ll often see people grabbing a rolled-up lahmajo from neighborhood bakeries or small take-out windows. One popular spot is Mer Taghe, located in downtown Yerevan, where the lahmajo is served hot, crispy, and with a side of spicy pickled vegetables.
3. Jingalov Hats (Herb-Stuffed Flatbread)
Originating from Artsakh, jingalov hats is a traditional flatbread stuffed with a mix of finely chopped herbs and greens. It’s a unique vegetarian option that packs flavor and nutrition in every bite. The mix often includes spinach, parsley, green onions, and other seasonal greens.
You can sometimes find jingalov hats being made fresh at GUM Market or during local food fairs and cultural festivals. It’s best enjoyed warm and is a great choice for a light, healthy snack.
4. Zhingyalov Hats and Matnakash: Freshly Baked Bread Options
In Yerevan, bread is not just food—it’s a symbol of life and community. Lavash is the most famous, but don’t miss matnakash, a soft, slightly sweet bread with a golden crust. It’s often sold by street vendors or at local bakeries and is delicious on its own or with cheese and herbs.
Vendors near Vernissage Market and Sasuntsi Davit Station often sell warm loaves that are impossible to resist.
5. Gata: Armenia’s Sweet Treasure
No food tour of Yerevan is complete without trying gata, a sweet pastry filled with a buttery, sugary mixture that sometimes includes nuts. Gata comes in many regional varieties, from small, round individual portions to large, shareable rolls.
While some types are sold in cafes or dessert shops, you’ll also find street stalls selling freshly baked gata wrapped in paper, perfect for an afternoon treat. Look out for vendors around Northern Avenue or near Republic Square.
6. Ponchik (Filled Doughnuts)
A delightful indulgence, ponchik are deep-fried doughnuts usually filled with cream or jam. Armenian ponchik are often larger and fluffier than their Western counterparts, with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
A beloved spot for ponchik in Yerevan is Ponchikanots (on Mashtots Avenue), but you’ll also spot mobile carts or small cafés offering their own take on this popular sweet.
7. Armenian Ice Cream and Frozen Delights
Especially in the summer months, Yerevan is full of vendors selling ice cream from local dairies, often served in cups or cones. The flavors range from classic vanilla and chocolate to walnut, mulberry, or apricot—fruits that are deeply connected to Armenian agriculture.
Some street vendors even sell tutti (dried fruit rolls) and fruit leather, great for on-the-go snacking. These sweet and tangy bites can be found near Children’s Park or the Cascade Complex.
8. Tan and Jermuk: Popular Local Beverages
As you walk the streets of Yerevan, you’ll notice kiosks selling cold bottles of tan, a salty yogurt drink that’s both refreshing and probiotic-rich. It’s an excellent complement to heavier dishes like khorovats or lahmajo.
You can also find Jermuk, a naturally carbonated mineral water from the mountains of Armenia, which locals swear by for digestion and hydration.
9. Seasonal Fruits and Nuts
Armenia’s fertile lands produce some of the best apricots, cherries, grapes, and pomegranates in the region. In the right season, you’ll find fruit vendors on almost every street corner, especially near major intersections and markets.
Try dried apricots, walnuts, or sun-dried mulberries for a healthy snack while exploring. GUM Market is a great place to sample and buy these in bulk.
Where to Explore Street Food in Yerevan
GUM Market: A must-visit for food enthusiasts, offering fresh produce, dried fruits, cheese, and traditional snacks.
Vernissage Market: While more known for crafts, you’ll find food stalls selling street snacks and drinks nearby.
Northern Avenue: A busy pedestrian area with bakeries, kiosks, and fast food joints.
Cascade Complex: Ideal for grabbing a bite before climbing the stairway or visiting the museums.
Final Thoughts
Yerevan may not have a traditional street food culture like Bangkok or Istanbul, but what it offers is a deeply authentic, community-driven culinary experience. The food here reflects centuries of Armenian tradition, hospitality, and love for simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Whether you’re walking through the bustling markets or exploring quiet alleys, every bite in Yerevan offers insight into the country’s soul. So come hungry, stay curious, and let the flavors of Armenia guide your journey through its capital city.