Cafés and Restaurants Owned by Ukrainians: Sunny Beach, Nessebar, and Sveti Vlas

Over the past few years, Bulgaria — especially its beautiful coastal towns of Nessebar and Sunny Beach — has become a welcoming haven for Ukrainian entrepreneurs, particularly in the hospitality industry. The hardships of war and economic instability have inspired many Ukrainians to build new lives abroad, leading to a remarkable rise in cafés and restaurants proudly owned and operated by Ukrainians.

According to Bulgaria’s hospitality market data, since the beginning of 2022, the number of food establishments opened by Ukrainians has grown by more than 15%, especially in tourist-favorite coastal regions. These charming venues are more than just places to eat — they are little islands of home, crafted with love and nostalgia.

Why Are Ukrainian Entrepreneurs Choosing Bulgaria?

Bulgaria offers a business-friendly environment with affordable rental options and attractive tax conditions. Sunny Beach and Nessebar, being vibrant tourist hubs, ensure a steady flow of visitors from all over the world — including a large number of Ukrainians. This creates a natural demand for places that serve familiar tastes from home, a comforting reminder of one’s roots.

At present, there are over 30,000 dining establishments in Bulgaria, with around 2% proudly owned by Ukrainians. And this heartwarming number continues to grow, not just yearly, but month by month.

9 Wonderful Spots to Visit for a Taste of Home

Sunny Beach

• Pizza, Doner, Sushi: Located right across from the bus station, this cozy spot offers delicious sets, vibrant cocktails, and even sushi-making masterclasses! Just a 20-minute stroll from the Fort Noks complex.
• Sunrise: A two-story restaurant near Sveti Vlas and the Emona bus stop. They offer sushi delivery too! Close to the Green Fort complex — about a 15-minute walk.
• Rollhouse: A small, vibrant venue right in the center, featuring a cocktail menu and a lovely summer terrace. Newly opened in mid-2024, it already feels like an old favorite.

Sveti Vlas

• Oreha: A heartwarming Ukrainian restaurant hosting lively Ukrainian parties. Here you’ll find delicious borscht, varenyky, dumplings, and stuffed cabbage rolls — all at reasonable prices. It boasts two floors, with a sunny rooftop terrace.
• Stella: A charming, slightly more upscale restaurant offering mouthwatering borscht and a variety of European dishes. Live music evenings add to its inviting atmosphere.

Nessebar

• Mario: Opened in September 2024, this place has quickly become a gem for pizza lovers. Expect live music and poetic performances on weekends, all wrapped up in the cozy charm of Ukrainian quality and Italian soul. The summer terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy it all.
• Noar: A lively bar-club offering karaoke nights on Thursdays and Sundays, and Ukrainian DJ sets with dance parties on Fridays and Saturdays. Just a stone’s throw from Mario.
• Mistral: A delightful coffee shop in the heart of New Nessebar. Great coffee, tasty desserts, and a wide selection of teas. Many Ukrainians have even made it their favorite coworking spot.
• Khinkali Bar: A welcoming Georgian eatery at the entrance to New Nessebar, boasting beautiful sea views and a relaxed promenade atmosphere. Affordable prices and a wonderful selection of khachapuri and khinkali make it a must-visit.

A Home Away from Home for the Ukrainian Community

For many Ukrainians who have found themselves in Bulgaria due to war or economic hardship, these cafés and restaurants have become precious sanctuaries — places where you can savor familiar flavors, reconnect with your culture, meet fellow countrymen, and catch up on the latest news from home.

Looking Ahead with Hope

The future is bright for Ukrainian-owned businesses in Sunny Beach and Nessebar. Many plan to expand, opening new locations and introducing exciting new dishes. There’s a growing demand for business breakfasts and community events, and entrepreneurs are actively supporting charitable initiatives, especially for Ukrainian refugees. Expect even more cultural celebrations in the future!

If You’re Searching for a Piece of Ukraine on the Bulgarian Coast…

…be sure to visit these wonderful establishments! You’ll be greeted with delicious food, warm smiles, and an atmosphere that feels just like home.

A Place That Feels Like Home

It’s truly comforting to know that even thousands of kilometers away from Ukraine, under the golden Bulgarian sun, you can find a little piece of home — a place where traditions, flavors, and the warmth of the Ukrainian spirit live on. Don’t be afraid to start your new chapter in Bulgaria — you’ll find plenty of familiarity, warmth, and community here.

And if you’re considering making the move even easier, we warmly invite you to join a real estate info tour with Fort Noks. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore the best housing options along the coast, visit residential complexes, and find a place where you can live and relax comfortably.

Fill out the form on our website to learn more about your new home on Bulgaria’s stunning Black Sea coast!