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Home / Blog / Traditional Macedonian Cuisine: Dishes You Must Try in Ohrid
Feb 12, 2026 Local Culture

Ohrid Trout (Ohridska Pastrmka)

The crown jewel of Ohrid cuisine, this endemic fish species has been a delicacy for centuries. Traditionally prepared on a grill or baked in the oven with local herbs, the trout's delicate flavor reflects the pristine waters of Lake Ohrid. Due to conservation efforts, wild Ohrid trout is a seasonal specialty — our restaurant serves sustainably sourced trout throughout the year.

Tavče Gravče

Considered the national dish of North Macedonia, this hearty baked bean dish is prepared in traditional clay pots (tavče). Slow-cooked with onions, peppers, and local spices, it is a comfort food staple that appears on every traditional restaurant menu. Best enjoyed with freshly baked bread and a glass of local wine.

Ajvar

This roasted red pepper relish is the soul of Macedonian cuisine. Every autumn, families across the country gather for "ajvar season," spending days roasting peppers over open flames and grinding them into this rich, smoky spread. At our restaurant, we serve ajvar made from the finest peppers of the Tikveš region.

Turli Tava

A mixed vegetable and meat casserole baked slowly in a clay dish, turli tava showcases the abundance of Macedonian produce. Seasonal vegetables, tender lamb or veal, and aromatic herbs combine for a satisfying one-pot meal that varies by season and region.

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad of diced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers topped with a generous layer of grated white cheese (sirenje). Simple but perfect, especially during Ohrid's warm summer months. The secret is in the quality of the vegetables — Macedonian tomatoes are renowned for their flavor.

Pastrmajlija

Often called "Macedonian pizza," this boat-shaped bread is topped with cubed meat (usually pork or lamb) and baked until golden. Originally from the Štip region, it has become a beloved dish across the country. Try it with a side of yogurt and hot peppers.

Macedonian Wine

No meal is complete without Macedonian wine. The Tikveš region produces excellent Vranec (a bold red), Temjanika (aromatic white), and Stanušina (rosé). Our restaurant offers a curated selection of the finest local wines to complement your dining experience.

Taste It at Nova Riviera

Our restaurant celebrates Macedonian culinary traditions with contemporary presentation. Our chef sources ingredients from local farmers and fishermen to bring you the most authentic flavors of the region. Join us for breakfast, lunch, or dinner to experience the best of Ohrid cuisine.

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