Food is more than a necessity—it’s an invitation into Albania’s culture, history, and deep-rooted traditions. Our kitchen celebrates the richness of Albanian cuisine by offering dishes made with love, seasonal ingredients, and recipes passed down through generations. These are not just meals, but stories served on a plate.
1. Byrek – The Beloved Albanian Pie
One of the most iconic Albanian dishes, Byrek is a savory pie layered with thin phyllo dough and filled with spinach, cheese, or meat. Crispy on the outside and warm on the inside, it’s a comfort food enjoyed across the country. At Castle Park, we make our byrek fresh every day, staying true to the traditional methods.
2. Kulac – Traditional Albanian Bread
Kulac is a round, slightly dense bread traditionally made without yeast and baked for special occasions or as a gesture of hospitality. Its golden crust and hearty interior make it the perfect companion to rich stews or grilled meats. In Castle Park, it is also used as the base for Përshesh—a festive Albanian dish.
3. Pispili – Cornbread with Wild Greens
A traditional oven-baked dish made with cornmeal, wild cabbage, and milk. Earthy and nourishing, pispili is a beloved staple that blends the humble ingredients of the countryside with heartwarming flavor.
4. Eggplants Stuffed with Fresh Tomatoes – Summer on a Plate
Known locally as Patëllxhanë të mbushur, this dish brings together tender eggplant and a slow-cooked tomato filling, often enhanced with herbs and onions. It’s a favorite during the summer months, showcasing the best of Albanian produce.
5. Gliko – Sweet Welcome with Preserved Fruits
Gliko is more than a dessert—it’s a tradition of hospitality. Guests are welcomed with a small spoon of candied fruits, such as cherry, fig, or watermelon rind, often served with cold water. Our gliko is homemade using seasonal fruits from the region, preserving flavor and love in every jar.
6. Berati-Style Beef Roll – Crispy and Nutty Delight
This unique dish features rolled beef stuffed with walnuts and cheese, coated in flour and egg, then fried to a golden crisp. A specialty from the Berat region, it offers a delightful combination of textures and rich flavors that meat lovers will adore.
A Culinary Journey Through Albania
As part of your adventure with our rafting group, we highly recommend a visit to Castle Park Hotel—a place where Albanian flavors come to life.
Whether you’re trying traditional Albanian food for the first time or coming back for the tastes you already love, Castle Park offers a warm, authentic dining experience. Each dish is carefully prepared, reflecting the land, the seasons, and the local spirit that makes Albania truly special.
After a day of excitement on the river, take time to relax, enjoy, and discover the heart of Albania—one bite at a time.
