Vlora Restaurant

About Vlora Restaurant

At this Boston Mediterranean Restaurant, located in the heart of the Back Bay, lives the soul of authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Vlora, named after Chef/Owner Aldo Velaj's hometown in Albania, opened to the public in Fall 2007. With a menu brimming with old family recipes and unique versions of traditional favorites, Vlora embraces the true Mediterranean lifestyle. The dishes reflect the age-old adage of “eat better and live better.” Believing that food should taste like food, the natural tastes and flavors of the freshest ingredients are enhanced primarily with olive oil and fresh herbs. With an emphasis on freshness and a minimalist cooking style, the naturally healthy menu covers tastes from the Northern Mediterranean region encompassing Southern Italy, Greece, and Albania. The menu and wine list are an extension of the flavors and dishes served in Aldo's own home, including exclusive hand-picked wines and lovingly prepared signature dishes that are unmatched in the city.



The entire restaurant was designed by Aldo to emulate the warm and inviting environment that one would feel in Vlora, Albania. Located below the bustling streets of Boylston, this subterranean space complete with private outdoor patio offers guests a unique atmosphere commonly found in parts of Europe. From the antique wooden door, to the custom-designed water wall that greets you upon entry, Vlora makes guests feel a welcoming sense of escape from the busy Back Bay. Fresh reviving colors and customized lighting set the tone while captivating artwork and sleek furniture evoke an atmosphere that is warm, inviting and hip.



The menu features a diverse variety of options for all palates and lifestyles including carnivorous, vegetarian and vegan options. The food is prepared using the freshest possible ingredients and authentic minimalist cooking techniques that primarily rely on olive oil, fresh herbs, and the natural tastes and flavors of the ingredient being prepared. Vlora's signature dishes include watermelon-feta, lemon potatoes, arancini siciliani, barbounia and fork-tender grilled octopus. From authentic Albanian Tava and home-made potato gnocchi, to trio of phyllo pies and vegetarian Pasticcio, Vlora's menu can satisfy a very diverse set of lifestyles. This family friendly dining restaurant offers a variety of “On the Side” items and smaller hot and cold dishes, all for diners to share. With plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, no diners will feel left out at Vlora.