In shops or bars, we often pay at one counter and receive the purchase at the other. So, you need to know the names of the products, because you won’t have a chance to point at them.The former capital of Moldova is a place shaped by the influence of many cultures – Old Moldavian and Russian, Oriental and Western. The footprints of its glory days are, e.g., the Neo-Gothic Palace of Culture and the 17th-century Monastery of the Three Hierarchs.
To experience real local folklore, come to Jassy on October 14. This is the day of celebration of Saint Paraskeva who is a patroness of the Metropolitan Cathedral. According to the custom, the Gypsies trickle into the city to share food with others. The streets are bustling and lined with lots of stalls selling souvenirs.
You can see the most significant monuments of Jassy taking a bike ride. Some companies, e.g., Rolandia, organize bike tours around the city. We recommend that you book the tour in advance so that the guide could arrange the ride according to your wishes.
On Carol I Boulevard lies Copou Park, the oldest public garden in Romania. It was founded in 1834 and designed in the style of French gardens. You’ll find here numerous sculptures, fountains, and trees in the shade of which you can relax from the hustle and bustle of the city.
One dish that you should definitely try is mamaliga which is very popular throughout Romania. It’s a type of porridge made out of cornstarch and served with Bryndza cheese, sour cream, garlic sauce, or fried eggs. In Jassy it’s offered by restaurants specializing in local cuisine, e.g., Oscar Restaurant on Strada Lascar Catargi and Casa Bolta Rece on Strada Rece where you can watch the street life while sitting on the terrace. You might also want to taste traditional sarmale – grape leaves stuffed with rice, meat, mushrooms, and fatback.
If you’d rather look down upon the city, book a table at Panoramic Restaurant which offers a unique view over Jassy from the 13th floor of Unirea Hotel. The effect is enhanced by the fact that the hotel is much higher than the surrounding buildings.
For dessert go to Leonidas Iasi which serves chocolate in all forms. It can be enjoyed on site or as take-out.
