Breakfast in Old City Baku, Icherisheher

Breakfast in Old City Baku, Icherisheher

Start your day of sightseeing with a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast in the picturesque streets of Baku’s Old City (Icherisheher), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The charming atmosphere of the Old City, with its narrow, cobbled streets, makes it an ideal place to enjoy a leisurely meal. A popular breakfast dish is pomidor chigirtma, a savory combination of scrambled eggs and fresh tomatoes, flavored with aromatic herbs and spices. This dish is a warm, comforting way to begin your day.

Pair it with tandoor-baked bread, fresh from traditional clay ovens, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This bread is perfect when topped with honey, farmer’s cheese, and rich yoghurts, adding variety and depth to the meal. The cheeses, such as kashkaval and tvorog, bring a savory richness, while sour cream and fresh herbs like parsley and dill give the meal an extra burst of flavor.

A vital part of the Azerbaijani breakfast experience is black tea, usually served in small, delicate glasses. This strong tea is often accompanied by a sweet pastry, such as baklava or shekerbura, both filled with nuts, sugar, and spices. Many locals enjoy their tea at one of the traditional teahouses in Icherisheher, where you can relax and soak in the ambiance of the Old City. These teahouses, with their cozy, wooden interiors, offer a perfect setting for a peaceful morning.

As you stroll through Icherisheher, you’ll pass iconic landmarks like the Shirvanshahs’ Palace and the Maiden Tower, reminders of Baku’s ancient history. For a change of pace, head to the Baku Boulevard along the Caspian Sea, where you can take in the stunning views and feel the fresh breeze. The nearby Baku Ferris Wheel also provides a fantastic vantage point of the city, ideal for snapping photos after your breakfast.

If you're in the mood for more local flavor, visit the Taza Bazaar, where you can find fresh produce, homemade jams, and local delicacies. The bustling market adds to the sensory experience of breakfast, with the aroma of fresh bread and spices filling the air. You may also encounter dolma, vine leaves stuffed with rice, meat, and herbs, which make a delightful addition to your morning meal.

The streets of Icherisheher are lined with quaint cafés, offering the perfect opportunity to continue savoring Azerbaijani cuisine. The peaceful surroundings of the Old City allow you to take your time and enjoy the blend of history, culture, and food. Having breakfast in Baku’s Old City is a unique and memorable experience, whether you’re a local or a traveler. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the essence of Baku before heading out to explore more of the city.