Toon Armeni: the story behind the creation of a “small village” in Dilijan

Nestled in one of Dilijan’s streets, Toon Armeni is a place that uniquely combines local color and modern comfort. The complex of several buildings, harmoniously inscribed into the landscape, has become a favorite spot for many Dilijan visitors: the hotel enables enjoying rest with comfort and traditional aesthetics, the restaurant offers to taste delicious dishes of Armenian cuisine, and the coworking space provides an opportunity for productive work surrounded by greenery. The history of Toon Armeni creation and reconstruction is a story of love for the native land and culture, a desire to create a unique place for quality leisure.

From residential houses to the first commercial project

The picturesque blue house on the territory of Toon Armeni used to be a traditional Dilijan house where a local family lived. Over time, the house and the adjacent territory began to change their owners, and this place’s purpose was also changing.

The name Toon Armeni remained from Armen, a person who bought one of the houses on the territory in 2013 and initiated the first commercial project here - a restaurant. Armen preserved thick stone walls typical of Armenian architecture, as well as a cozy veranda where locals and visitors now enjoy fresh air and tasty dishes.

Sisters Mary and Angela have become one of the symbols of this place: they are the cooks of the Tun Armeni restaurant who have been creating delicious dishes here for 14 years. The sisters stood at the origins of the complex’ emergence and are local residents whose house is located nearby, where they spent their childhood.

Toon Ameni’s new chapter: from restaurant to small village

Ruben Vardanyan and his team’s arrival became a key stage in the history of Toon Armeni. During his visit to Dilijan where the construction of the UWC Dilijan international school was already underway, he visited the restaurant and was captivated by its home-like coziness, delicious food, and hospitality. And so, he made a decision that was fateful for this place.

In January 2022, a large-scale project on Toon Armeni renovation and improvement started. It was important to preserve the complex’s authenticity and uniqueness: the works included both restoration of the existing buildings and the construction of new facilities for rest and work. Four fully renovated rooms and six new rooms were opened by May of the same year, and two terraces were added.

Rare volcanic rock from Artsakh was used for finishing the bathrooms of most rooms. The stone is notable for its unusual patterns resembling tree rings in the cross-section.

In 2018, with the support of GIZ, a coworking space Workation Toon Armeni emerged on the site of one of the buildings. It has become an important part of the complex, attracting freelancers and tourists who combine rest with work.

The restaurant with which Toon Ameni began its journey was also reconstructed: the kitchen was expanded, and a summer kitchen with a traditional Armenian tandoor was added.

Toon Armeni’s significance for the local community

The local community took an active part in the improvement of Toon Armeni. For example, the traditional-style interior was created from furniture and household items provided by the Dilijan residents themselves. They give Toon Armeni a special atmosphere that captivates guests with its authenticity and warmth.

One of those who provided vintage interior items was the family of Mary and Angela, employees of the Toon Armeni restaurant. By the way, they give master classes on making traditional Armenian gata, which is one of the favorite activities for tourists. It is important to note that the entire staff of Toon Armeni consists of local residents, who continue to maintain its warm atmosphere, creating a sense of home comfort for each guest.

The unique Toon Ameni project, which emerged on the site of old Dilijan houses, is not just a restaurant and hotel complex, but also a symbol of hospitality and Dilijan’s cultural heritage.

Website: Toon Armeni Little Village
Instagram: toon_armeni_dilijan
Facebook: Toon Armeni Guest House | Dilijan