Other foods I've tried include cesnaková polievka (traditional creamy garlic soup with potatoes) and vyprážaný syr (fried and battered cheese). Slovakia even has a local Coca-Cola alternative called Kofola, created in the 1950s after the communist government heavily restricted the importation of American drinks. It tastes a lot like Coke, but less sugary and with more herbal notes. It's very much a beloved national drink here. Almost all and restaurants and bars will have Kofola available. Bottled Kofola is available in the U.S., but it's rare, and must be purchased from Amazon or specialty European grocery stores. If you enjoy Coca-Cola or Pepsi and want to try something new, give Kofola a try!
I felt relaxed and warm! Bryndzové Halušky (the potato dumpling national dish) is clearly comfort food. It's hearty, hot and filling. The bryndza, or sheep cheese, is traditional to mountainous regions in Slovakia. It's unlike cheese made in the U.S. It tastes quite sharp and has a very strong aroma. It tastes a bit like feta, but is much creamier. The traditional bacon on top is high in fat content, and it is common to include the pan juices from the cooked bacon. You don't have to eat much to feel satisfied.
