The Best Insta-Worthy & Nomad-Friendly Restaurants in Sofia

Late November may have not been the best time to visit Sofia, Bulgaria, but I will say it was a great time to get cozy in one of the city’s many inviting restaurants or cafes. When I arrive in a new city, one of the first things I like to do is research digital-nomad friendly cafes where I can hunker down and work for a few hours without feeling like I’m overstaying my welcome. (Bonus points if the place happens to be super Instagrammable!) Before I even arrived in Sofia, two recommendations had already come my way from multiple sources: Made in Home and Made in Blue. After visiting both, I quickly understood why they were attracting digital nomads and Instagrammers like bugs to a light.

Made in Home

Address: ul. "Angel Kanchev" 30, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria

Made in Home is aptly named. It feels a bit like you’re visiting grandma’s house for a homemade meal- but grandma has a better sense of style than you ever realized. Busy patterns, mis-matched furniture, and gorgeous tableware characterize this eclectic and welcoming space. It’s also a place where the Wi-Fi speeds are almost as impressive as the food. The menu is vegan and vegetarian-friendly, but also has something for everyone. Fresh recipes included a variety of items from soups to hummus to kebabs and meat plates. I had myself a pot of tea and a delicious pumpkin soup that hit the spot on a chilly autumn day.

Important note: Made in Home is a cash-only establishment, so make sure you have some Bulgarian lev handy! Reservations are also recommended, though in November this clearly was not necessary!

Made in Blue

Address: ul. "Yuri Venelin" 6, 1000 Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria

Made in Blue is located in a three-story house painted in an eye-catching shade of blue. It’s must larger than Made in Home, and arguably the more photogenic of the two. I was both camera-happy and hungry the moment I stepped through the door- having caught sight of the amazing interior and caught a whiff of what was coming from the kitchen!

The decor is not unlike that of Made in Home, and features a mishmash of furniture, accessories and artwork in its many rooms. The top floor, which they were not using at the time of my visit, was my favorite. A worn yet aesthetically pleasing hallway with an antique chandelier leads up to the attic-like space with low ceilings and lush plants hanging all around. I could easily envision sitting up there with friends for hours over a few drinks. If you’re visiting in the warmer months and cozy attics aren’t your thing, there’s an outdoor garden to sit in as well! The menu is as fresh and delicious as Made in Home’s- I’ve always been a bit indifferent towards falafel but the one I ordered was to die for. These two cafes have not worked up a buzz for nothing!

Important note: depending on when you plan to visit, might be best to make a reservation! Weekends and evenings can get busy.