Housed in a 19th-century villa near the Arc de Triumf in north Bucharest, Casa Doina is one of Bucharest's most luxurious spots for high-quality Romanian fare such as polenta, stuffed grape leaves and grilled fillets.

The self-named restaurant of one of Romania's leading chefs, Joseph Hadad, Joseph, hidden among the villas in northern Bucharest, is a slice of international dining for those who can afford something a little bit special. Lobster risotto with truffle and vermouth and French veal are just two of the dishes on offer that point to the no expense spared experience.

Located in the heart of the Old Town, The Artist offers food that would not feel out of place on the streets of London or Milan. Opened by Dutch chef Paul Oppenkamp in 2012, The Artist blends molecular cooking techniques with traditional Romanian cuisine, meaning diners get an experience unlikely to be available anywhere else.

Located among the maze of streets that make up the Old Town in central Bucharest, Lacrimi si Sfinti (Tears and Saints) is the restaurant of Mircea Dinescu, one of Romania's most preeminent and outspoken poets, who was a leading figure during the 1989 revolution. Live music and high-end versions of traditional Romanian dishes make it a great option for those wanting to get a taste of modern Romania. Dinescu is often found, glass of wine in hand, holding court in his restaurant.

It's hard to beat sitting looking out over picturesque Herastrau Lake as you eat fresh carp caught from the Danube. Part of the City Grill chain (which also includes Hanu' Lui Manuc and Caru Cu Bere) Pescarus is one of the city's preeminent fish restaurants, though the menu also has plenty of other, non-fish dishes available.

Located in the posh northern district of Dorobanti, Zexe offers old world charm in the form of great food in a beautiful old villa, with a nice terrace for the warmer months. Located in the heart of the embassy district, the restaurant is a favourite of foreign diplomats, serving a healthy blend of sausages, soups, salads and meats from the grill. Not a great option for vegetarians.

Bucharest's oldest beer house is a classic three-floor beer hall from the days when a night of boozing came with serious pomp. There are set lunches and plenty of pork ribs and minced meat, not to mention mugs of the Caru cu Bere's own beer. Even on quiet nights of the week the restaurant is crowded, with a lively atmosphere and live music.

A visit to Hanu' Lui Manuc is more about the location than the food itself, though the latter is always pretty good. Set in the courtyard of an early 19th century trader's inn, it is fun to imagine how it would have felt being there two centuries ago as traders passed through the city on their long journeys from east to west. A grand stairwell to the left as you enter leads up to two layers of covered walkways, while live music in the summer months help complete the image. A great spot for a hearty meal, or even just a quick snack and a glass of wine.

While technically a Moldovan chain of eateries, La Placinte offers a vast range of traditional Romanian sweet and savoury pies that will get any mouth watering. There are several locations across the city, all offering vibrant interior designs and page upon page of pies, salads and grilled meats.