Exploring Albania for the first time with a guide like Sofokli Cali unlocks the door to the Tirana’s most incredible spots. A master of hospitality and, together with his brother Evis, founder of the award-winning cocktail bar Nouvelle Vague, Sofokli has become an ambassador for his homeland and ranks among the top hundred most influential figures in the bar industry. “I might never be a millionaire, but my greatest reward is the joy of spending time in my city with the guests who come to visit. Honestly, I think I end up having more fun than they do”, he quips, capturing the essence of hospitality that flows through his veins.
Tirana, the New Vibes of the City
Upon arrival in Tirana, the energy of a capital city undergoing an unprecedented transformation is immediately palpable. Strolling through its streets, it becomes evident that numerous construction sites for new residences and hotels are rapidly emerging to accommodate the increasing influx of tourists.
Here, Italian is practically a second language; many people speak it, and nearly everyone understands it. A lot of hospitality professionals have spent time in Italy, honing their skills before returning home to open their own establishments.
Take Memetjon Beqo, known to his friends as Tony, the proud owner of Filari Wine Bar. Nestled in the New Bazaar, his bar offers a delightful selection of wines crafted from Albania’s unique native grapes, such as the Vlosh, along with a curated collection of Italian and French sparkling wines. Tony, with his signature red beard, fondly recalls his time in Franciacorta, where he was often mistaken for a local while working under the legendary Gualtiero Marchesi.
Gastronomic Traditions
After an aperitif, for a taste of traditional Albanian cuisine elevated with a contemporary twist, Mullixhiu (which means “mill” in Albanian) is the perfect stop. Located opposite Tirana’s Grand Park, here chef Bledar Kola presents his slow food philosophy, serving dishes made from ingredients sourced from small Albanian producers, with a menu rich in meat and pasta options.
Don’t miss the fig bread, a classic homemade recipe, and the fli (or flija), a traditional dish from the north that resembles a thick crêpe, made with flour and cooked in butter.
Tirana night life
As night falls, the Blloku district awaits, the beating heart of Tirana’s nightlife. Here stands Nouvelle Vague, a shining example of contemporary mixology. Sofokli and Evis Cali opened the bar at the end of 2012 with the support of their family, aiming to share their enthusiasm and dedication to hospitality.
The place is vibrant and full of color, featuring two counters that hint at its high-volume nature. Outside, there are several tables sheltered under an arcade, and hammocks hang from the ceiling, inviting relaxation.
A DJ console and vinyl records displayed on the walls speak to its musical soul, blending reggae, Afro, and jazz-funk vibes. Every element of this cocktail bar weaves a narrative of Albania, from its traditional spirits to the family stories of the Cali brothers. The menu, cleverly named Origin’Al, is crafted to “breathe new life into the nation’s culinary heritage,
highlighting rakia, a local grape spirit, and blending it with cutting-edge techniques from our lab”, Sofokli shares.
Signature drinks like the Deviated Negroni, made with fortified kallmet wine, bitters and juniper rakia, or the Nou Fashion, a mix of rye and bourbon, vermouth, bitters, ginger and lime, are not to be missed
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Images courtesy Nouvelle Vague
