If you’re searching for the best restaurants in Tirana City Center, this curated list by Love Albania will help you choose the perfect spot. This classification is not random—it’s based on a careful analysis of reviews from Google and TripAdvisor over the past year. We considered important criteria such as hygiene, safety, service, atmosphere and the star ratings left directly by customers.
So, whether you’re a traveler exploring Albania’s vibrant capital or a local foodie looking for where to eat in Tirana, these five restaurants stand out as the top dining experiences in the city center.
#5 – Pasta Tirana
Rated by Love Albania: 4.8⭐ | Total Reviews: 903
Location: Pasta Tirana – Google Maps
Instagram: @pastatirana
Best for: Authentic Italian pasta, quick meals, and budget-friendly dining
Inside Toptani Shopping Center, Pasta Tirana has become a hotspot for pasta enthusiasts who want authentic Italian flavors without long waits. With generous portions, fresh ingredients, and fast service, it’s a favorite among students, families, and tourists looking for quality at fair prices.
Recommended dishes: Bolognese, Napolitana, Mac & Cheese, Truffle Pasta, Chicken Pesto, Lasagna
Tip: Try their truffle pasta for a richer experience—it’s one of the most praised dishes.
#4 – Royal Pizza
Rated by Love Albania: 4.9⭐ | Total Reviews: 103
Location: Royal Pizza – Google Maps
Best for: Authentic Italian-style pizza and hearty sandwiches
Royal Pizza is a central gem near Toptani Mall and Tirana Castle, serving some of the city’s most loved pizzas. With a crispy homemade crust and fresh toppings, it’s the perfect casual stop for pizza lovers. Prices are affordable, making it a solid value-for-money choice.
Recommended dishes: Capricciosa Pizza, Four Cheese Pizza, Ham Pizza, Italian Sandwiches
Tip: Pair your pizza with their Italian sandwiches—guests often call them the best in town.
#3 – Savory
Rated by Love Albania: 4.9⭐ | Total Reviews: 705
Location: Savory – Google Maps
Instagram: @savory_coffee_food
Best for: Traditional Albanian dishes and international brunch favorites
Savory stands out for mixing authentic Albanian flavors with modern brunch plates, making it perfect for both locals and travelers. With its central location, friendly staff, and family-friendly setting, this is one of Tirana’s most versatile dining options.
Recommended dishes: Traditional Mixed Platter, Pancakes, Avocado Toast, Omelets, Burritos
Tip: Visit for brunch and try their iced coffee with pancakes—it’s a local favorite combo.
#2 – Falafel House Tirana
Rated by Love Albania: 4.9⭐ | Total Reviews: 203
Location: Falafel House Tirana – Google Maps
Instagram: @falafelhousetirana
Best for: Vegan wraps, hummus, and quick street-style bites
Located next to Rinia Park, Falafel House is a vegan-friendly takeaway spot loved for its generous wraps and unbeatable prices. With fresh falafel, hummus, and crispy veggies, it’s a go-to for anyone craving Middle Eastern street food on the go.
Recommended dishes: Falafel Wrap, XL Falafel Wrap, Hummus Wrap, Spicy Falafel Wrap, Pita Falafel
Tip: Grab your wrap and enjoy it as a picnic in Rinia Park just across the street.
#1 – Centro Restaurant and Lounge
Rated by Love Albania: 4.9⭐ | Total Reviews: 415
Location: Centro Restaurant and Lounge – Google Maps
Instagram: @centroalbania
Best for: Authentic Syrian cuisine, halal options, and warm hospitality
At the top of our list, Centro Restaurant and Lounge blends Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors with unmatched hospitality. From its famous shawarma to comforting lentil soup and crispy chicken strips with toum, this spot has quickly become a favorite in Tirana’s city center.
Recommended dishes: Shawarma, Lentil Soup, Chicken Strips with Toum, Buffalo Wings, Hummus with Arabic Bread
Tip: The owner often greets guests personally—don’t leave without trying their signature garlic sauce.
From shawarma and falafel wraps to brunch plates and wood-fired pizza, the city center is full of culinary gems. These top 5 restaurants in Tirana City Center represent the best-reviewed and most loved places where service, taste, and atmosphere come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Want more foodie inspiration? Don’t miss our guide to Tirana’s 11 Best Street Food & Takeaway Spots.
