Restaurant & Bar Hotel Fantasy is a centrally located restaurant right next to the Old Bazaar in Gjirokastër, making it a very convenient spot to stop for a meal while exploring the city. It’s part of Hotel Fantasy, a popular hotel known for its views over the old town and castle.

The restaurant is a great place to try local specialties unique to Gjirokastër, especially qifqi (small rice balls mixed with herbs and lightly fried) and oshaf (a traditional dessert made with dried figs, milk, and cinnamon): my favorite Albanian dessert. They also serve a mix of Albanian and Mediterranean dishes, with a solid overall quality.

The setting is a big plus: there’s a nice terrace with views over the city (including a view of the Gjirokastër Castle), along with indoor seating. Prices are generally mid-range, similar to other central restaurants in Gjirokastër.