cuisine
Tavë kosi — the lamb-and-yogurt dish that defines Elbasan
Albania's national dish: lamb baked in a thick yogurt-and-egg crust until it sets like a savory custard. Born in Elbasan, eaten countrywide.
By myAlbania Editorial·April 28, 2026·2 min read
If you ask ten Albanians for the national dish, eight will say tavë kosi. It's a clay-baked casserole of lamb pieces sealed under a yogurt + egg + flour mixture that puffs and sets in the oven. The result is part-roast, part-soufflé, with a tangy edge.
Where it comes from
Elbasan, in central Albania, has the historic claim — local restaurants there have served it for over a century. From there it spread to Tirana and beyond.
Where to eat it
- Elbasan: Restorant Çajupi (the original go-to).
- Tirana: Oda, Era, Mullixhiu (modern interpretation).
- Berat: Restaurant Antigoni.
Serve with crusty bread and a side of cucumber-tomato salad.