Best Places to Eat in Moscow Russia

Hungry in Moscow? From Street Eats to Fine Dining:

Moscow offers a culinary adventure for every taste and budget! Here are some of the best places to grab a bite:

Street Food Delights:

  • Shawarma: Ubiquitous throughout the city, shawarma stands offer juicy meat wrapped in lavash bread with fresh vegetables and sauces. Look for stalls with long lines - they’re usually a good sign!

  • Pirozhki: These savoury pastries filled with potatoes, cabbage, meat or cheese are a classic Russian snack. Find them at kiosks and bakeries throughout the city.

  • Blini: Thin pancakes served with various fillings like caviar, sour cream, smoked salmon or jam, blini are a delicious and affordable treat. Check out pancake stands in parks and markets.

  • Chebureki: These deep-fried turnovers filled with minced meat are another popular street food option.

Beyond the Street:

  • White Rabbit: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers stunning views of Moscow alongside innovative Russian cuisine.

  • Cafe Pushkin: Immerse yourself in old-world charm at this elegant cafe serving traditional Russian dishes in a beautiful setting.

  • Dr. Zhivago: Indulge in refined dining with modern interpretations of classic Russian recipes.

Budget Bites:

  • Stolovaya: These Soviet-style cafeterias offer hearty, affordable meals like borscht, pelmeni (dumplings) and kasha (porridge).
  • Market Halls: Explore bustling market halls like Danilovsky Market for diverse food stalls offering everything from Georgian khachapuri to Armenian lavash.

Don’t Forget the Drinks!

  • Kvass: This fermented rye bread drink is a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
  • Russian Tea: Warm up with a traditional samovar of black tea and enjoy it with sweet treats like pirozhki or medovik (honey cake).

Tips for Dining in Moscow:

  • Learn some basic Russian phrases - even just “spasibo” (thank you) goes a long way.
  • Be prepared to pay cash, as not all restaurants accept credit cards.
  • Tipping is customary, around 10% of the bill.
  • Enjoy the experience! Moscow’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting.