Some restaurants feed your appetite, but some feed your curiosity, your soul, and your connection to place. Popina Local Kitchen in Constanța is one of those rare spaces.

Founded by Ciprian Ștefan, a host with an inspiring natural energy and rare authenticity, Popina is a love letter to Dobrogea — that unique region between the Danube and the Black Sea where cultures have blended for centuries.

Ciprian is more than a restaurant owner. He’s a cultural storyteller, a passionate guide to the forgotten flavors of the region, and a warm presence who inspires you to explore with openness and heart. In this interview, he shares the story behind Popina and the values that shape every dish and every guest experience.

Interview with Ciprian Ștefan

How did the restaurant start?

Our restaurant was supposed to be a Soup Bar with recipes from all over the world, but then we realized that we have a whole universe in Dobrogea and no one thought of a menu that would represent this mix of civilizations.

What philosophy guides your menu and guest experience?

We explore recipes that seem simple but that most people have never heard of, with quality ingredients to highlight how complex Dobrogea is.

What is your mission?

Our mission is to make our guests think “I’ll let go of my comfort zone and I’ll explore food with more curiosity”!

How do you choose ingredients and work with local producers?

As much as possible, we source from local markets like Griviței and collaborate with small businesses across Dobrogea—ice cream artisans, winemakers, fishermen, and more.

Do you host culinary experiences beyond à la carte dining?

Yes. We offer tasting menus, private dinners, and customizable events depending on time and season. If we have the space and the time, we love to go the extra mile.

Do you have a signature dish?

We don’t believe in signature dishes. We believe in Dobrogea and letting the entire region shine.

What do you want guests to remember after visiting Popina?

That it was more than a meal—it was a journey into a layered and generous culinary culture they probably never expected to discover in Romania.

Popina isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a reflection of a place and a person. With warmth, curiosity, and a deep respect for tradition, Ciprian Ștefan invites you to discover a new Romania—one that’s generous, layered, and full of stories.

We’re proud to feature Popina on Roots to Flavors. It’s a place where history meets hospitality, and where every plate encourages you to eat with curiosity and heart.