On a sunny Sunday morning, my family and I decided to escape the city and explore the outskirts of Tirana. We drove to Mullet village, on the other side of the village of Petrela (right across the river), to check out a traditional restaurant that we had heard about from a family friend. The restaurant, called Riza Hotel Restaurant, was hidden behind a three-story hotel building and featured a nice outdoor seating area, a calceto field, and some small games for kids.
When we arrived, we were greeted by the friendly staff and seated at a table outside. We asked the waiter to tell us about the menu, and he promptly listed off several traditional Albanian dishes, including rice chicken, qofte, cheese, salad, tave dheu, and French fries. My kids, however, were not adventurous eaters and opted for pizza instead.
The food was delicious, with rich flavors and satisfying textures. The traditional dishes reminded us of our childhood days spent in the Albanian countryside. We especially enjoyed the tave dheu, a flavorful baked dish made with meat and vegetables.
While we ate, our kids played calceto with some other children who were there with their families. We were pleased to see them making new friends and having a good time. My youngest son, who loves animals, was delighted to see ducks and chickens roaming freely in the restaurant’s outdoor area.
The atmosphere of the restaurant was relaxed and laid-back, with a sense of calmness that can only be found in nature. Although the river was about 100 meters away, we couldn’t hear it as it was down in the gorge.
Overall, our visit to Riza Hotel Restaurant was a pleasant experience. Although my parents weren’t overly impressed, they did seem much calmer and at ease after our outing. For anyone looking for a traditional Albanian dining experience in a peaceful, natural setting, we recommend checking out Riza Hotel Restaurant. Just don’t forget to bring your appetite!
