Must-Try Food in Odessa: A Culinary Guide to Ukraine’s Coastal Gem
- 1. Traditional Ukrainian Borscht: A Local Favorite
- 2. Fresh Black Sea Seafood: A Coastal Delight
- 3. Odessa’s Famous Shashlik: A Grilled Delight
- 4. Deruny: Ukrainian Potato Pancakes
- 5. Odessa’s Sweet Treats: Paska and More
1. Traditional Ukrainian Borscht: A Local Favorite
One of the must-try food items in Odessa is borscht, a beloved traditional Ukrainian soup. This rich, beet-based dish is often served with sour cream and accompanied by rye bread. In Odessa, it’s prepared slightly differently with more vegetables, making it a comforting and hearty meal after a day of sightseeing. You'll find it served in almost every restaurant, with some offering their own special twists on this classic dish. If you're lucky, you might get to enjoy it with some locally made garlic bread—another Odessa favorite.
2. Fresh Black Sea Seafood: A Coastal Delight
Given Odessa’s prime location on the Black Sea coast, fresh seafood is a central part of the city’s culinary landscape. Some of the must-try dishes include grilled fish, black mussels, and shrimp, often prepared with simple yet delicious seasonings. A local delicacy, sturgeon, is sometimes served in sophisticated restaurants, offering a true taste of the region's marine bounty. For the freshest seafood experience, head to one of Odessa's many seafood restaurants located near the port.
3. Odessa’s Famous Shashlik: A Grilled Delight
No food tour in Odessa would be complete without trying shashlik, a popular dish across Ukraine and Russia. This dish consists of marinated meat, often pork or lamb, skewered and grilled over an open flame. The meat is tender, juicy, and full of flavor, served with fresh vegetables or flatbread. Street vendors and restaurants alike offer their own variations of shashlik, making it a staple in Odessa's food scene. If you’re visiting during summer, you can enjoy this dish at one of the beachside grills along the Black Sea coast.
4. Deruny: Ukrainian Potato Pancakes
Another must-try food in Odessa is deruny, or Ukrainian potato pancakes. These crispy, golden pancakes are made from grated potatoes, flour, and eggs, then fried until crunchy and served with sour cream or a variety of dips. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a hearty snack, deruny are a comforting and filling option that showcases Ukraine’s humble yet delicious cooking traditions. They pair beautifully with a cold beer or a glass of horilka, the local vodka.
5. Odessa’s Sweet Treats: Paska and More
Odessa is also known for its delicious sweets, and paska is a standout dessert. This traditional Ukrainian Easter bread is rich, fluffy, and often flavored with vanilla, raisins, and citrus zest. Many bakeries in Odessa offer fresh paska year-round, and you’ll find it served in both homes and cafes. Another sweet delight you can’t miss is kyiv cake, a layered meringue cake filled with creamy hazelnut filling. This cake is a true symbol of Ukraine's pastry craftsmanship and will leave you craving more.
If you’re planning a trip to Odessa, make sure to explore the local food scene and taste these must-try dishes. Whether you’re a fan of hearty soups, fresh seafood, or delicious street food, Odessa has something to offer every food lover. Ready to dive into Odessa’s culinary delights? Book your next food tour in Odessa and embark on a flavorful adventure!
