Republic of Macedonia Restaurants

1. Skopski Merak

The warm, welcoming restaurant is a favorite among locals for its handsome decor, large menu of quality traditional dishes, copious servings, and lively atmosphere, particularly on weekend evenings when the wine flows to the strains of live Macedonian music. One-pot meat and vegetable dishes are cooked in the restaurant's wood oven. Although you'll find steaks and burgers on the menu, you're best off sticking to traditional favorites: lamb stew with zucchini and eggplant, fried sheep-milk cheese (piroshka), cured meats, and simmered beans. Desserts tend to be run-of-the-mill, but the local wines are a fine accompaniment to a hearty meal.