Our Features Editor’s Little Black Book Of Yerevan
I love supporting local brands when I travel, and Armenian jewellery is truly exceptional. For bold, sculptural pieces, I always look to Sonya Avagyan – she splits her time between Yerevan and Paris, and her designs feel distinctly international yet rooted in tradition. Pregomesh is another favourite for its wearable, stackable jewellery that blends old Armenian motifs with contemporary metals. As for wardrobe staples, BERQ is my go-to ready-to-wear label, available at Vajrapar, a cool concept space that combines fashion, photography and vinyl records.
Yerevan is packed with great shopping, especially if you’re after something unique. Cone is a standout for chic Armenian labels like Soncess, which does beautiful, feminine pieces with a modern twist. M-A-D-E is another top pick – it stocks a curated edit of local brands, and I always manage to find great accessories and thoughtful gifts. For something a bit more eclectic, the Vernissage flea market is a weekend must, with everything from hand-crocheted tops to vintage coffee sets.
Design lovers should make a beeline for Tumo Studios. It’s a beautiful space, and the gift shop is full of handmade, one-of-a-kind pieces, especially in the homeware department. If standout ceramics are your thing, Brutents is a name to know – her work is both innovative and steeped in Armenian iconography.
Coffee culture runs deep in Yerevan, and the city is full of brilliant cafés. For a classic Armenian coffee, I head to J Space or the charming Mirzoyan Library. For something more modern, Lumen is a personal favourite – the cortado is spot-on and the honey cake with berries is a must. The space is also seriously Instagram-friendly, with its warm, minimalist design.
Eating in Yerevan is always a highlight. For traditional Armenian dishes with a modern twist, Sherep is a no-brainer – the menu is generous and everything is packed with flavour. Anteb is the place for Western Armenian classics like mante, shish tawook and lahmajoun, while Zeituna offers a warm, spice-rich take on Syrian-Armenian cuisine. For brunch or a laid-back breakfast with good people-watching, D’Angelo always delivers.
Yerevan’s creative energy spills over into its nightlife. Minas Cocktail Room is one of my favourite places to start the evening – a stunning mix of art, ambience and mixology. Named after famed Armenian painter Minas Avetisyan, the space is filled with artworks inspired by his bold style, making it as photogenic as it is memorable.
There’s no shortage of culture in Yerevan, and a few places I always return to. The History Museum of Armenia offers a brilliant overview of the country’s rich past, while the Lusik Aguletsi House-Museum and Art Café showcases beautifully preserved traditional costumes and jewellery. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Martiros Saryan House Museum, dedicated to one of Armenia’s most celebrated 20th-century artists. And for a deep dive into the country's craft heritage, the Megerian Carpet Museum is worth a visit – the collection includes intricate designs dating back to the 17th century.
If you're staying in the city, there are some great boutique hotels to choose from. Republica Hotel is a chic, centrally located option near Republic Square with stylish touches throughout. Tufenkian Historic Hotel is another firm favourite – set opposite a leafy park, it’s full of character and locally made details. Yerevan is incredibly walkable, so I always bring comfy trainers – usually my New Balance or Adidas Tokyos – for exploring on foot.
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When it comes to beauty, Yerevan knows what it’s doing. For the perfect blow-dry, Koko Kalayjian Hair Salon is my go-to, while Beauty Bar Yerevan is the spot for long-lasting, chip-free manicures.
One of the city’s best-kept secrets? Starting your morning at the Cafesjian Center for the Arts. Set in the iconic Cascade Complex, it’s the ideal place to grab a pastry and coffee from a nearby café and soak up sweeping views of Mount Ararat from the stone steps. It’s peaceful, energising, and gives you a mini workout before the day begins. Come nightfall, I love heading to Malkhas Jazz Club for live music and a moody, relaxed vibe. The best times to visit Armenia are late spring and early autumn – think golden light, crisp air and the city at its most vibrant.
My Yerevan essentials include a few trusty favourites. A sturdy crossbody bag – right now it’s the Dragon Diffusion PomPom Double Jump – plus a Laneige Lip Glowy Balm (the altitude can be drying), Meller sunglasses, and a pair of great jeans like the Sienna-cut from Mango. And if walking all day isn’t quite enough, Reform Pilates Studio is a brilliant spot for a calm, core-focused workout in a sleek, modern space.
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