Dining

Dining is also one of the Bulgarian culture, customs, and etiquette that you should know before traveling to Bulgaria. Continental style of eating is most common, with the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right. Bulgarians eat pork, chicken, fish, or lamb with most main dishes. Popular main meals include Moussaka and Nadenitsa. Grilled meat and kababs are also popular, especially in restaurants. Traditionally, the largest meal was eaten at midday and consisted of soup and/or salad, a main course, and dessert. At formal meals, the host offers the first toast which is generally done with hard liquor such as vodka. You should reciprocate with your own toast later in the meal. If you are the guest of honor, your departure may be necessary following the meal before others can leave.

Bulgarians enjoy social gatherings. A good meal may take three or four hours. If you are invited to a meal, you may be asked to begin eating first. This is your host's way of being polite; you can reciprocate the gesture by thanking your host, and suggesting that the most senior person at the table begins their meal, while you follow. The more you eat, the more appreciation you show, so plan on taking at least two servings. Take a smaller portion the first you round if you serve yourself, so you can have room for a second helping afterward.