In July 2024, the capital of Armenia, Yerevan, became the center of gastronomic experiences, hosting the most significant festival of the year — "RestoFest 2024" (Restaurant Days).
From July 19 to 21, over 100 restaurant concepts gathered on Tumanyan and Moskovyan streets, offering guests a unique opportunity to enjoy the best dishes not only of Armenian cuisine but also from around the world. This three-day gastronomic celebration became a true event for everyone who appreciates delicious food, culinary mastery, and vibrant experiences.
We spoke with Tatevik Avetisyan, a representative of "RestoFest 2024", who shared her impressions of the recently concluded restaurant festival.
The main focus of "RestoFest 2024"was the exquisite dishes presented by restaurants from across Armenia.
Culinary Diversity: From Tradition to Innovation.
Each participant at the festival presented unique gastronomic concepts, ranging from traditional Armenian dishes, such as an omelette with tomatoes made from 250 eggs, dolma, and baklava, to Italian, French, and Japanese cuisine, as well as street food. Festival guests not only had the opportunity to enjoy familiar flavors but also explore new gastronomic horizons.
A highlight of the event was the culinary showcase, where participants presented both classic recipes and modern signature dishes, creating a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Entertainment Program: Music, Dance, and the Festival Atmosphere
But RestoFest was not only about food. Each day of the festival was accompanied by vibrant concerts featuring popular Armenian DJs. The musical performances created an unforgettable festive atmosphere, turning the event into a truly multifaceted celebration.
Festival guests were offered not only gastronomic delights but also a fun time with friends, acquaintances, or new people who shared a love for fine cuisine and exciting emotions. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, allowing all participants to feel like part of a large culinary community.
Masterclasses: From Professionals to Beginners
An important part of the festival were the masterclasses led by renowned chefs, who revealed the secrets behind preparing their famous dishes. Attendees had the opportunity not only to observe the creation of true culinary masterpieces but also to ask questions and receive valuable tips for their own kitchens.
These masterclasses became a crucial educational component of the festival, attracting both professionals and amateurs eager to improve their culinary skills.
RestoFest: Not Only for Guests but Also for Restaurateurs
For restaurants and culinary experts, RestoFest 2024 became a unique platform for promoting their brands and exchanging experiences with colleagues. The interaction between restaurateurs, culinary masters, and clients opened up new opportunities for business and collaboration.
Many restaurateurs noted that participating in the festival not only allowed them to present their best dishes to a broad audience but also helped them establish valuable business connections, which will undoubtedly play a positive role in the future development of their businesses.
Restaurant Festival - Competition
During the three-day “RestoFest” (or “Restaurant Days”) festival, specially trained volunteers worked at each restaurant booth, conducting surveys among visitors. People who tasted the dishes shared their impressions on the taste (whether it was delicious or not).
Based on the survey results, the winners in three categories of “Best Dish” were announced on the last day of the festival, July 21. Three restaurant concepts were awarded statuettes corresponding to their rankings.
Our editorial team decided to contact the participants of RestoFest 2024 who also took prize-winning places in the competition to hear their thoughts on the past festival.
First, we spoke with representatives of “Araks Poultry Farm,” who organized a grand show that became an event across the entire region. They demonstrated their expertise by preparing an omelet with tomatoes using 250 eggs and numerous ingredients.
We contacted Araks Poultry Farm representative Seda Ovsepyan, who kindly answered our questions.
Dear Seda, what dish did you present, and what inspired you to create it?
“At the festival, we presented a traditional Armenian dish – an omelet with tomatoes, known as shakshuka. This simple yet incredibly delicious dish is inspired by warm family breakfasts filled with the aroma of fresh ingredients. As one of the best egg producers, we take pride in the quality of our product, which became a key element of this dish. We aimed to highlight the natural taste and quality, conveying the soul and traditions of Armenian cuisine in every portion.”
What emotions did you feel when you found out that you became one of the prizewinners of the competition?
“When we found out that we became one of the prizewinners, it was a huge joy and pride for us. We believed in success, as our shakshuka made a real sensation. The dish was prepared using 250 eggs, which not only became a monumental culinary achievement but also a wonderful reflection of Armenian traditions. The variety of ingredients in our national omelet allowed us to create a flavor harmony that won the hearts of the festival guests. For us, it wasn’t just an award; it was confirmation that traditional cuisine can inspire and surprise.”
Do you plan to participate in the upcoming RestoFest 2025?
“This year we have many exciting events planned, but we hope that we will definitely find an opportunity to participate in such a bright and large-scale festival as RestoFest 2025. It’s a unique platform where we can share our culinary art, meet new people, and once again become part of the unforgettable festive atmosphere.”
How do you evaluate the organization of the festival?
“The organization of the festival, in general, was at a good level, but the weather conditions came as a surprise to everyone, including the organizers. No one expected such conditions, as the weather forecast did not predict any surprises. Despite this, the team handled the situation excellently, ensuring the comfort of participants and guests. This demonstrates their professionalism and readiness for unforeseen circumstances.”
What would you like to add to RestoFest 2025?
“For RestoFest 2025, we would like to add more interactive zones for guests, such as culinary masterclasses, tastings, or shows where people can get a closer look at the cooking process.”
Our editorial team also interviewed representatives of Tonir Rooftop Restaurant, who showcased exquisite and delicious treats at the festival.
Kristina, the representative of the restaurant, as a true professional in her field, gladly answered our questions.
What dish did you present, and what inspired you to create it?
“We presented our signature dishes — baklava and cheesecake. On the one hand, baklava is a traditional Armenian delicacy that reflects the rich history of our cuisine and conveys the warmth and soul of Armenian culture. On the other hand, cheesecake is a popular dessert among tourists.
We were inspired by the desire to preserve and showcase national traditions, focusing on the taste and quality that both locals and visitors from other countries would appreciate.”
Dear Kristina, what emotions did you experience when you found out that you became one of the prizewinners of the competition?
“We were incredibly happy, and it was a bit unexpected for us. The most important thing is that we managed to convey to the guests what we truly wanted. This is a huge indicator of the quality of our work and the skill of our chefs.”
Do you plan to participate in the upcoming RestoFest 2025?
“Yes, definitely. We had an amazing time and wouldn’t want to miss one of the biggest festivals in Armenia.”
How do you evaluate the organization of the festival?
“The organization of the festival was top-notch: everything was carefully thought out, creating comfortable conditions for both participants and guests. We especially liked how thoroughly the restaurant zone was organized: convenient location, well-planned infrastructure, and attention to every participant. It was a wonderful experience that allowed us to present our menu to a wide audience and become part of an unforgettable gastronomic atmosphere!
We are grateful for the opportunity to participate in such a large-scale and vibrant event as RestoFest 2024.”
What would you like to add to RestoFest 2025?
“We are confident that with more active promotion, RestoFest 2025 will be able to attract more tourists and become even larger. Thank you for this vibrant experience, and we will be happy to participate again.”
And, of course, our editorial team saved one of the brightest participants for last — Quick Bites Street Food, who presented corn dogs and rightfully earned a prestigious spot. The representative of Quick Bites kindly answered our questions.
Dear Karen, what dish did you present, and what inspired you to create it?
“We presented corn dogs. This dish combines simplicity, fun, and flavor, which is why it is loved by people of all ages. We were inspired by the idea of bringing a popular and universally recognized street food to the festival, adding our unique twist to it. By using high-quality local ingredients, we aimed to take this classic snack to the next level and offer festival guests a special taste.”
What emotions did you experience when you found out you became one of the prizewinners of the competition?
“We were very happy and proud! It’s a great honor and a confirmation that our efforts and ideas were appreciated.”
Do you plan to participate in the upcoming RestoFest 2025?
“It’s a great opportunity to share our dishes again and feel the festive atmosphere.”
How do you evaluate the organization of the festival?
“The organization was of a high standard: everything was carefully thought out, with convenient infrastructure and attention to every participant. We were very satisfied!”
What would you like to add to RestoFest 2025?
“We would love to see more relaxation areas where guests could enjoy their food in a cozy setting, as well as add evening shows to create an even more festive atmosphere.”
In conclusion, RestoFest 2024 became a vivid example of how food unites people and cultures, turning ordinary days into an unforgettable celebration. The festival showcased the richness of Armenian and global cuisine, offering guests a warm atmosphere, new flavors, and vivid impressions. Everyone is already eagerly awaiting RestoFest 2025, which promises to be an even more grand and spectacular event, capable of surprising and delighting food enthusiasts from around the world.
RestoFest 2024: The Culinary Celebration of Summer in Yerevan
The festival was organized by Horeca Holding.