Aghtamar Lake Van Monastery In Exile

Ditsy

Like a previous reviewer it's 25 years since I visited but even though I've been all over the world it was one of my most memorable experiences. I seem to remember an element of vetting in booking- we had to sound like worthy

Drue

We were greeted by the proprietor and led through a candle-lit passageway to a cavernous room decorated with enormous flags, rusty bicycles, traffic cones, church pewes and a moose head staring down on our table. The room itself was quite cold but thankfully a candle was provided for us to sit round- when it got really cold, we lit it. The walls were festooned with various images/photos/ of Armenian culture ( sheet music, stern looking soviet faces, "Visit aRMENIA tURISTIC ADVERTS ETC). The toilets were very atmospheric, retaining a kind of 'never been painted in 30yrs feel', a tin of 'VIM' which had sort of morphed itself to the window sill, beneath the most cobwebbed net curtain this side of the iron curtain itself, completed the scene. Once seated our host appeared & disappeared over and over again, each time arriving with a different course of fayre ranging from traditional Armenian bread to stewd brussel sprouts, an amazing mixed salad, stuffed peppers, chicken risotto, and others before climaxing with a fresh summer fruit ( Armenian style) sorbet followed by (non) turkish coffee. Halfway through the meal our host asked if we would "like to listen to some music"? we agreed and were treated to a medley of traditional Armenian marching music from his impressive selection of old 78's. Later one of our party asked our host if he would like to listen to some of our music? replying 'yes', my friend granted his wish by playing a medley of classic KISS songs on his "flying V" Ukelele! - I'm sure you will agree, a truly unforgettable experience! The possibly 10 course ( I lost count) banquet was washed down with a couple of bottles of Spanish laughing juice, making the whole affair most agreeable indeed. Recommended. PS be patient, it took us half a dozen phone calls to pin him down/agree a date & time, well worth the wait tho!

Evelyn

I first visited this restaurant about 25 years ago when I was a student in Edinburgh and I'm delighted to find that it still exists. It is a truly unique experience to eat here...and sometimes you do a lot more than eat. We used to dance and look at Armenian atlases and have stimulating discussions with the owner. You must go here at least once in your life. Evelyn Roe

Pasha

This is just the best place I have ever visited. The most hospitable host, excellent food, the most impressive ambience and whole atmosphere.

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