What is Sufllaqe?

Sufllaqe* (sometimes spelled sufllaqe or souvlaki) is a popular Albanian street food that features marinated, grilled meat—typically pork or chicken—wrapped in a soft pita. The wrap is filled with fresh veggies such as tomatoes, lettuce, and onions, and it’s all topped off with creamy sauces like garlic yogurt or ketchup.

What makes Sufllaqe stand out, however, is the generous portion of crispy fries tucked inside the wrap, adding an extra layer of texture and taste.

Though it shares similarities with its Greek counterpart souvlaki, Sufllaqe has developed its own identity in Albania, adapting to local tastes and incorporating familiar flavours.

What Goes Inside Sufllaqe?

The key to the perfect Sufllaqe lies in the balance of flavours and textures. Here’s what typically goes inside this tasty Albanian wrap:

1. Grilled Meat: The heart of Sufllaqe is the grilled meat, which can be pork, chicken, or lamb. The meat is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, oregano, lemon juice, and pepper, then grilled until it’s tender and tasty.
   
   

2. Pita Bread: A soft and chewy pita is essential to hold the filling together. The pita is often lightly toasted to give it a slight crisp on the outside while remaining soft inside.
   
   

3. Fresh Vegetables: Slices of fresh tomatoes, lettuce, and onions are added to balance the rich flavours of the meat and give the wrap a fresh, crunchy texture.
   
   

4. Crispy French Fries: What truly sets Sufllaqe apart from similar street foods is the addition of French fries inside the wrap. These fries add a salty, crunchy element that complements the other ingredients, making every bite even more satisfying.
   
   

5. Flavourful Sauces: A good Sufllaqe wouldn’t be complete without a drizzle of sauce. Popular choices include tzatziki, a garlic yogurt sauce, or a mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. These sauces add creaminess and flavor to the dish.
   
   

6. Optional Add-ons: Some vendors offer extras like feta cheese, pickles, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who want to customize their Sufllaqe with a bit more flavour.

Where to Find the Best Sufllaqe in Albania

If you’re visiting Albania and want to try the best Sufllaqe, you’ll find it in nearly every city and town. From the capital, Tirana, to coastal areas like Durrës and Saranda, street vendors and small eateries serve up fresh, made-to-order Sufllaqe throughout the day.

In cities like Tirana, you can find popular Sufllaqe stands that attract both locals and tourists for their high-quality, tasty wraps. Locals often have their favourite spots, and it’s worth asking for recommendations to find the best one in each town.