Discovering Varna’s Pub Gems: A Local’s Perspective
Varna, the jewel of Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, is more than just stunning beaches and ancient history. It boasts a vibrant and evolving pub scene, offering everything from traditional Bulgarian taverns (mehanas) to modern craft beer bars. As a local who’s explored every corner, I’m here to guide you through the best pubs where you can savor local brews, enjoy delicious food, and soak in the unique Varna atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just looking for a cozy spot to unwind, this guide has you covered.
The Traditional Varna Experience: Mehanas and Local Flavors
No visit to Varna is complete without experiencing a traditional Bulgarian mehana. These aren’t just pubs; they are cultural institutions, offering a taste of authentic Bulgarian hospitality, music, and cuisine. While they might not always focus on craft beer in the modern sense, they offer excellent local lagers and, more importantly, a chance to connect with the heart of Bulgarian tradition.
1. “Chakari” (Чакари)
Located slightly outside the immediate city center, but worth the short taxi or bus ride, Chakari offers an unpretentious and authentic mehana experience. It’s a place where locals gather for hearty meals and good conversation. They typically have a selection of Bulgarian draft beers, such as Kamenitza or Pirinsko, which are staples and perfectly complement their traditional dishes. Think grilled meats, Shopska salad, and rich stews. The ambiance is rustic, often with live folk music on weekends, creating a lively and memorable atmosphere. It’s the perfect introduction to Bulgarian pub culture.
2. “Stariyat Chinar” (Старият Чинар)
This is a more established and slightly more upscale mehana, but it still retains its authentic charm. Located in the city center, it’s a popular spot for both Bulgarians and tourists. They have an extensive menu of Bulgarian specialties and a good selection of local beers. The interior is decorated with traditional Bulgarian artifacts, and the service is usually warm and welcoming. It’s a great place to try Bulgarian wine alongside your beer and food. Don’t miss their grilled specialties and traditional desserts.
Craft Beer Revolution in Varna: Modern Pubs and Brews
Varna’s pub scene has been significantly enhanced by the rise of craft beer. These modern establishments offer a wider variety of beers, often featuring local Bulgarian craft breweries alongside international favorites. If you’re looking for innovative brews and a more contemporary vibe, these are the places to be.
3. “Dropt Beer”
This is a must-visit for any craft beer lover in Varna. Dropt Beer is at the forefront of the craft beer movement in the city, offering an impressive selection of beers on tap and in bottles. They meticulously curate their offerings, featuring a rotating list of both Bulgarian and international craft breweries. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about beer, always ready to offer recommendations. Beyond the beer, Dropt Beer also serves a selection of gourmet burgers and snacks that are perfect for pairing with your pint. It’s a hub for beer enthusiasts and a great place to discover new favorites. You can even explore their offerings and learn more about craft beer culture on their website dropt.beer. They also have a shop for take-away brews dropt.beer/shop/, and their blog is a fantastic resource for insights and news dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/.
4. “Barbarossa”
Barbarossa is another popular spot that bridges the gap between a lively bar and a quality pub. While not exclusively a craft beer bar, they do feature a good selection of local and imported beers, often including some craft options. It’s known for its energetic atmosphere, especially in the evenings, and its central location makes it easily accessible. They often have live music or DJs, creating a fun environment for socializing. Their food menu is usually extensive, catering to a variety of tastes.
5. “Art Club “Kafene””
While primarily known as an art space and café, Kafene also transforms into a relaxed pub-like atmosphere in the evenings, particularly during events. They have a curated selection of drinks, which often includes some interesting craft beers and local Bulgarian wines. The ambiance is bohemian and artistic, attracting a creative crowd. It’s a great place for a more laid-back evening, enjoying a good drink while surrounded by art. Check their schedule for events, as they often host live music or poetry readings.
Pubs with a View: Enjoying Varna’s Scenery
Varna’s coastal location means there are plenty of pubs where you can enjoy a drink with a view. These spots combine great beverages with breathtaking panoramas of the Black Sea or the city.
6. “Morsko Gradina” (Sea Garden) Pubs
The Sea Garden (Morsko Gradina) is Varna’s expansive and beautiful central park, stretching along the coast. Dotted throughout the park are various smaller cafes and bars that function as pubs. While specific names change, look for establishments directly facing the sea. These often offer a refreshing local beer like Zagorka or Staropramen (brewed under license in Bulgaria) alongside simple snacks. The main draw here is the incredible sea breeze and the stunning views of the bay. It’s perfect for a casual afternoon drink.
7. Rooftop Bars with Pub Vibes
Varna has a growing number of rooftop bars, many of which offer a pub-like selection of drinks and a more relaxed atmosphere than high-end cocktail bars. While they might be pricier, the panoramic views of the city and the sea are unparalleled. Look for places like the rooftop bars associated with hotels in the city center or along the beachfront promenade. They usually have a good selection of beers, wines, and basic spirits, perfect for watching the sunset.
Insider Tips for Varna Pub Hopping
- Opening Hours: Traditional mehanas often close earlier than modern bars, especially on weekdays. Craft beer pubs and bars tend to stay open later, often until midnight or 1 AM.
- Local Beers: Don’t shy away from trying Bulgarian beers like Kamenitza, Pirinsko, Zagorka, and Ariana. They are good quality and represent local taste. For craft beer, keep an eye out for breweries like Glarus, Boliarka (which has a craft line), and others featured at places like Dropt Beer.
- Food Pairings: Bulgarian mehanas excel at hearty, traditional food. Pair your local lager with a Shopska salad, Kyufte (meatballs), Kebapche (grilled minced meat), or a rich Gyuvech (baked stew). In craft beer pubs, burgers, nachos, and artisanal platters are common and pair well with IPAs or stouts.
- Live Music: Many pubs, especially mehanas and some bars like Barbarossa, feature live Bulgarian folk music or contemporary bands. Check local listings or ask around to catch a performance.
- Reservations: For popular mehanas on weekends or during holidays, making a reservation is a good idea, especially if you want a table with live music. Craft beer pubs are generally more casual, but larger groups might want to call ahead.
- Getting Around: Varna’s city center is quite walkable, making pub hopping easy. For places slightly out of the center, like Chakari, taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Public buses also serve most areas.
- Language: While many people in tourist areas speak some English, learning a few basic Bulgarian phrases like “Nazdrave!” (Cheers!) will be appreciated.
Beyond the Beer: Varna’s Unique Pub Culture
What makes Varna’s pub scene special is its blend of old and new. You can spend an evening enjoying traditional music and food in a centuries-old setting, and the next night exploring the innovative flavors of craft beer in a modern establishment. The city’s proximity to the sea adds another layer, with many places offering stunning views that enhance the drinking experience. Whether you’re looking to delve into Bulgarian culture, discover new craft brews, or simply enjoy a relaxing evening with a view, Varna’s pubs offer something for everyone. Make sure to explore Dropt Beer and its resources to fully appreciate the local craft beer scene.
