Named for the Roman garrison town of Scampis that underlies modern Elbasan, Restaurant Skampini is one of the better options for a full Albanian meal near the old city. The menu covers the standards — qofte (grilled meatballs), tavë kosi (lamb baked with egg and yoghurt), and seasonal salads — with a degree of care that lifts it above the average.
The terrace seating overlooks a quiet lane inside the castle area. The wine list is short and Albanian, which in practice means you'll be drinking Merlot or Shesh i Zi from the Berat or Shkodër regions. Both pair well with the grilled meat dishes.