11 Best Breakfast Places in Sofia [in 2026]

As someone who has lived in Sofia for years and considers myself a passionate foodie, I can tell you that this city's breakfast and brunch scene has absolutely exploded in recent years.

Gone are the days when your only morning option was a quick banitsa from a corner shop.

Today, Sofia offers everything from trendy Instagram-worthy brunch spots to traditional Bulgarian breakfast experiences that will transport you straight to grandma's kitchen.

Best Sofia Breakfast Places

#1. Rainbow Factory – Best All-Day Brunch in Sofia

[PHOTO: Rainbow Factory brunch plate] Alt text: Rainbow Factory eggs mekitsi

If there's one place that consistently tops every brunch list in Sofia, it's Rainbow Factory. This award-winning spot has earned its reputation as the city's best brunch destination, and after countless visits, I completely understand why.

The industrial-chic interior creates the perfect backdrop for their specialty coffee and thoughtfully crafted dishes. What I love most is their commitment to traditional Bulgarian breakfasts with a modern twist. Their mekitsi (Bulgarian fried dough) served with white cheese and jam is absolutely heavenly, while the Panagurski eggs seasoned with za'atar instead of garlic are a revelation. The vegetarian sandwiches and fresh salads are equally impressive.

Rainbow Factory operates two locations, making it easy to fit into your Sofia itinerary. The original on Veslets Street tends to get packed, especially on weekends, so arrive early or try the second location on Sheynovo Street.

• Address: ul. Veslets 10 (original) or ul. Sheynovo 13B (second location)

• Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Saturday–Sunday 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

• Average cost: €8–12 per person

• Google Maps: Rainbow Factory Veslets

#2. Mekitsa & Coffee – Best Traditional Bulgarian Breakfast

[PHOTO: Fresh mekitsa with toppings] Alt text: Mekitsa coffee shop pastry

For the most authentic Bulgarian breakfast experience in Sofia, Mekitsa & Coffee is an absolute must-visit. This charming cafe is the only place in the city where you can watch your mekitsa being freshly fried right before your eyes.

The owners traveled across Bulgaria, Macedonia, and Romania to perfect their secret recipe, and the result is spectacular. You can stick to classics like mekitsa with powdered sugar, jam, or white cheese, or experiment with more modern combinations like peanut butter and fig jam or honey with walnuts. Don't miss their buhti (smaller mekitsa balls) and pair everything with a refreshing homemade lemonade.

The cozy upstairs seating area offers lovely views of Graf Ignatiev Street and the passing trams. Pro tip: grab that window table if it's free and enjoy a leisurely breakfast watching Sofia wake up.

• Address: ul. Graf Ignatiev 28, Sofia Center

• Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Saturday–Sunday 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

• Average cost: €2–5 per person

• Google Maps: Mekitsa & Coffee

#3. Wonderland Brunch & Cake – Best Instagrammable Breakfast

[PHOTO: Wonderland decorated brunch plate] Alt text: Wonderland dessert cake display

Step into Wonderland and you'll immediately understand why this whimsical spot has become Sofia's most photogenic brunch destination. The dreamy decor and beautifully presented dishes make every visit feel like an escape into a fairy tale.

While Wonderland is famous for its stunning desserts and creative cocktails, the brunch menu is equally impressive. The eggs Benedict with salmon, chicken waffles, and their signature Wonderland sandwich are all showstoppers. The cakes here are divine – the Little Pony and Cookies cake are particularly popular with regulars.

This place gets incredibly busy on weekends, so I'd strongly recommend making a reservation. It's also dog-friendly, which is always a plus in my book.

• Address: ul. Petar Parchevich 26, Sofia Center

• Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Average cost: €10–15 per person

• Google Maps: Wonderland Brunch & Cake

#4. Cafe 1920 – Best Views with Your Breakfast

[PHOTO: Cafe 1920 interior with Lion's Bridge view] Alt text: Cafe 1920 lions view

Housed in a beautiful 1920s building overlooking Lion's Bridge, Cafe 1920 offers one of the most scenic breakfast experiences in Sofia. The industrial-style interior with exposed brick and natural wood creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the historic surroundings.

The all-day brunch concept means you can enjoy Bulgarian childhood classics like strandjanki (toasts with minced meat and cheese) alongside international favorites like American pancakes with bacon and ice cream or French toast. The coffee and cappuccino here are excellent, and the friendly staff make you feel right at home.

With two floors and great views of trams passing by, this is the perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast while watching Sofia come to life.

• Address: 60 Maria Luiza Boulevard (near Lion's Bridge)

• Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

• Average cost: €8–12 per person

• Google Maps: Cafe 1920

#5. Boho – Best Garden Brunch Spot

[PHOTO: Boho garden seating area] Alt text: Boho garden brunch mimosa

Boho has become my go-to recommendation for anyone looking for that quintessential Sofia brunch experience. The restaurant's philosophy is all about easy living and appreciating flavors from around the world, and their quiet garden in the heart of the city is the perfect setting for a relaxed weekend meal.

The eggs Benedict here are exceptional, and the chicken waffles have achieved near-legendary status among Sofia's brunch crowd. Don't skip the mimosas – they're perfectly mixed and pair beautifully with everything on the menu. The pancakes are fluffy perfection, and the atmosphere transforms beautifully in the evenings if you're looking to extend your visit.

Fair warning: this place gets very busy, so reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends.

• Address: ul. Hristo Belchev 29B

• Hours: Daily 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Brunch all day until 4:00 PM)

• Average cost: €10–15 per person

• Google Maps: Boho Sofia

#6. HleBar – Best Artisan Banitsa

[PHOTO: HleBar banitsa selection] Alt text: HleBar bakery fresh banitsa

If you want to try the best banitsa in Sofia, HleBar is where you need to go. This modern bakery has taken Bulgaria's beloved breakfast pastry to new heights with their incredible variety of fillings and handmade sourdough breads.

Beyond the classic cheese and egg banitsa, HleBar offers fantastic vegan versions with potato, mushroom, and olive oil, plus sweet options filled with apple, cinnamon, and walnuts or autumn pumpkin and walnuts. The apple banitsa is absolutely next-level good – arrive early because they sell out fast.

The cafe also serves excellent brunch dishes if the banitsa is gone, including stuffed peppers with cheese that are worth the trip alone. There's a small zero-waste shop on-site selling organic products.

• Address: ul. Oborishte 16 (main location with seating) or ul. Tsar Shishman 27 (takeaway only)

• Hours: Daily 7:15 AM – 9:00 PM

• Average cost: €3–6 per person

• Google Maps: HleBar

#7. 718 Breakfast & Brunch – Best Bagels in Sofia

[PHOTO: 718 salmon bagel with coffee] Alt text: 718 loaded salmon bagel

For the best bagels in Sofia, look no further than 718 Breakfast & Brunch. This cozy spot on Knyaz Boris I Street has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering Western European quality with generous portions and moderate prices.

The salmon bagel is absolutely loaded with smoked salmon and cheese – it's almost embarrassingly good. The BLT bagel is another winner, and their grilled cheese with tomato soup is pure comfort food. The specialty coffee here is excellent, and the cardamom bun for dessert is worth every calorie.

The atmosphere is buzzing on weekend mornings, so consider making a reservation if you're coming with a group. The staff are incredibly welcoming and happy to help with recommendations.

• Address: ul. Knyaz Boris I 99

• Hours: Daily until 6:00 PM

• Average cost: €8–12 per person

• Google Maps: 718 Breakfast & Brunch

#8. Sofiyska Banitsa – Best Budget Breakfast

[PHOTO: Traditional banitsa with ayran] Alt text: Sofiyska Banitsa fresh pastry

For the most authentic and budget-friendly Bulgarian breakfast, you can't beat Sofiyska Banitsa. This no-frills spot serves some of the best banitsa in the city at incredibly reasonable prices, with locals lining up alongside curious tourists every morning.

The banitsa here comes in several varieties including cheese, spinach with cheese, pumpkin, and apple – all served warm and fresh from the tray. Pair it with ayran (a refreshing yogurt drink) for the true Bulgarian breakfast experience, or try boza if you're feeling adventurous (it's an acquired taste, but worth trying at least once).

Note that this is a cash-only establishment, and the staff don't speak much English, but pointing at what you want works perfectly fine. The limited seating means most people grab and go.

• Address: ul. Graf Ignatiev 7A

• Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed Sundays)

• Average cost: €1–3 per person

• Google Maps: Sofiyska Banitsa

#9. JoVan the Dutch Bakery – Best European-Style Pastries

[PHOTO: JoVan croissant display] Alt text: JoVan Dutch bakery croissants

Run by John, a Dutch baker who has been perfecting his craft for decades, JoVan brings a taste of Western European bakery culture to Sofia. This charming spot on Angel Kanchev Street has been delighting locals and expats since 2005 with its incredible variety of freshly baked goods.

The croissants here are some of the best in the city – flaky, buttery, and absolutely delicious. The seasonal offerings are always worth checking out, from Easter cakes to autumn spelt-apple creations. Labels are in both Bulgarian and English, making this one of the more tourist-friendly bakeries in the city center.

JoVan has two locations, both in central Sofia. The pastries sell out throughout the day, so mornings are best for the full selection.

• Address: ul. Angel Kanchev 37 or ul. Hristo Belchev 1

• Hours: Monday–Saturday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closed Sundays)

• Average cost: €3–6 per person

• Google Maps: JoVan Dutch Bakery

#10. Obred – Best Specialty Bagels & Kombucha

[PHOTO: Obred bagel with salmon] Alt text: Obred bagel salmon filling

Obred has quietly become one of my favorite breakfast discoveries in Sofia. This intimate spot combines New York Jewish deli culture with Bulgarian products, resulting in something truly special – sourdough bagels filled with rainbow trout, smoked bonito from the Black Sea, and fermented vegetables from a garden near Sofia.

The attention to quality ingredients is evident in every bite. Whether you go for the fish options or something more traditional like eggs and bacon, you won't be disappointed. Their homemade kombucha changes seasonally and is worth trying, and I'd argue they make the best chocolate chip cookie (with miso!) in the entire city.

The cozy upstairs seating is self-service, and be careful on those steep stairs. This place is popular with Sofia's food-savvy crowd for good reason.

• Address: ul. Iskar 11, Sofia Center

• Hours: Monday–Friday 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Saturday–Sunday 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

• Average cost: €6–10 per person

• Google Maps: Obred

#11. Le Soleil Crêperie – Best French Breakfast

[PHOTO: Le Soleil crepe with chocolate] Alt text: Le Soleil French crepe

Hidden under the shade of green trees, Le Soleil is a little slice of French heaven in Sofia. This charming crêperie serves the best crepes in the city alongside what many consider the finest specialty coffee around.

For sweet tooth cravings, try the crepes with Bonne Maman confiture or premium Belgian Callebaut chocolate. Savory lovers will appreciate the veggie, cheese, or meat options that make for a satisfying breakfast. The combination of perfectly made crepes and excellent coffee is hard to resist.

The atmosphere is quintessentially French – cozy, intimate, and utterly charming. They even host music evenings and have a writers' club that meets regularly, adding to the authentic European cafe culture.

• Address: Check current location as they've moved

• Hours: Daily from morning until evening

• Average cost: €6–10 per person

• Google Maps: Le Soleil

FAQ

What is a traditional Bulgarian breakfast?

A traditional Bulgarian breakfast typically consists of banitsa (flaky filo pastry filled with cheese and eggs), mekitsi (deep-fried dough similar to doughnuts), and drinks like ayran (yogurt drink) or boza (fermented grain beverage). These items have been staples for generations and you can find them at local bakeries throughout Sofia.

What time do breakfast places open in Sofia?

Most breakfast and brunch spots in Sofia open between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Traditional bakeries like Sofiyska Banitsa open as early as 7:00 AM, while trendier brunch places typically open around 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Weekend hours may vary slightly.

Do I need reservations for brunch in Sofia?

For popular brunch spots like Boho, Wonderland, and Rainbow Factory, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends. Many places get very busy by 11:00 AM on Saturdays and Sundays. Weekday mornings are generally less crowded.

Are Sofia breakfast places vegan-friendly?

Yes, many Sofia breakfast spots offer excellent vegan options. HleBar serves vegan banitsa with potato and mushroom, Mekitsa & Coffee has whole grain vegan mekitsa with cashew cheese, and Rainbow Factory offers various plant-based dishes. Always ask staff about specific dietary requirements.

How much does breakfast cost in Sofia?

Breakfast in Sofia is quite affordable compared to Western European cities. A traditional banitsa with a drink costs around €1–3, while a full brunch at a trendy spot runs €8–15 per person. You can eat very well for under €10 at most places.

Do breakfast places in Sofia accept credit cards?

Most modern brunch spots and cafes accept credit cards including Visa and Mastercard. However, traditional bakeries like Sofiyska Banitsa are cash-only. It's always wise to carry some cash as smaller establishments may not have card facilities.

What's the difference between banitsa and mekitsa?

Banitsa is a baked pastry made from layers of filo dough with various fillings like cheese, spinach, or pumpkin. Mekitsa is a deep-fried dough ball similar to a doughnut, typically served with sweet or savory toppings. Both are traditional Bulgarian breakfast foods with distinct textures and preparation methods.

Is English spoken at breakfast places in Sofia?

English is widely spoken at tourist-friendly establishments like Rainbow Factory, Cafe 1920, and Wonderland. Traditional spots like Sofiyska Banitsa may have limited English, but pointing at what you want works fine. Many places also have QR code menus in English.

What's the best area for breakfast in Sofia?

The city center around Graf Ignatiev Street, Vitosha Boulevard, and the Oborishte neighborhood offer the highest concentration of quality breakfast spots. You can easily walk between several excellent options in these areas.

Can I find American-style breakfast in Sofia?

Yes, several places serve American-style breakfast items. Cafe 1920 offers American pancakes with bacon and ice cream, while 718 Breakfast & Brunch serves excellent bagels and American-style brunch dishes. The Irish Harp pub also offers a full English breakfast.

Conclusion

Sofia's breakfast scene has transformed dramatically, offering something for every taste and budget. Whether you're craving traditional Bulgarian mekitsi at a cozy corner cafe or Instagram-worthy brunch plates at a trendy hot spot, this city delivers. My personal favorites remain Rainbow Factory for the perfect blend of Bulgarian tradition and modern flair, and Sofiyska Banitsa for those authentic no-frills mornings. Start your Sofia days right – your taste buds will thank you.