A Culinary Revolution of Russia: 4 Must-Try​ Restaurants in Moscow

Russian culinary culture has undergone a major revolution and now offers a wide range of establishments worth visiting. Russia generates an avalanche of political headlines, but amid this media focus Moscow is a very safe, enjoyable and hospitable place.

The times of Soviet style cafeterias serving blinis and borsht are long gone. The lack of quality dining options have been replaced with endless establishments offering both exquisite fine dining, as well as international casual options.  However, this culinary diversity makes the industry more competitive than ever, putting pressure on new and established restaurants to impress their guests even further.

A successful restaurant in Moscow has to deliver far beyond just a tasty menu.  Russians are definately into the glam effect so décor, location and views are a must. These four options below are a definite must whether you are an avid foodie in search of the next best dish or seeking an opulent setting.

RUSKI

Set inside one of the tallest new buildings in Europe, The Oko Towers, it is no surprise that this restaurant boasts some incredible views of Moscow. The Restaurant’s spaces and design along with its Russian focused cuisine deliver a true culinary tour of Russia. The menu is full of Russian classic brought to you with a creative fresh twist by Chef Aleksander Volkov Medvedebv. Aleksander creates most of the menu in a traditional Russian Furnace “Pechka”. For a proper experience of Mother Russia, finish your meal in the Vodka Ice Bar, I did! 

BURO TSUM

A favorite on the list, in part because of its creative and elegant menu, in part for its city-center views and lavishing interior that houses different nooks and corners for every type of mood. BURO TSUM sits on top of one of the main department stores of Moscow, Tsum. The menu is full of local and seasonal ingredients with star dishes like the Cauliflower Carpaccio and Beef Tartarе with black chanterelles and truffle brioche. I am still dreaming of their Strawberry Tartare that I got to enjoy on the quaint patio.

DEPO Market

One of the most recent additions to the cool culinary scene of Moscow. This Market is built on an old Trolley Depo Station and the design elements contain old trolley busses instead storefronts. DEPO is now one of the biggest food malls in Europe and offers endless types of establishments that will please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you are looking for a fresh catch or a meat delight this Urban Farmers Market has a place for everyone. Come hungry and roam around trying all the different kiosks.  You will leave with a full belly and a fresh bouquet or stay to dance off the calories on a center stage that houses local DJs.

SAKHALIN

This seafood restaurant named after the island of Sakhalin in far East Russia offers a five-star seafood-centric menu. A mesmerizing raw bar section offers some of the best fresh Uni I have had in a while. Sakhalin’s menu is prepared with Russian regional ingredients and Mediterranean and Asian twists. The team behind this establishment is one of the most respected restaurant groups in Moscow, The White Rabbit. Sakhalin offers a panoramic view of Moscow. The popularity of this newly opened place is high, so be prepared and reserve ahead of time, or come during lunch when there is more availability. We had some of the best service here, the prices are high, but every detail matched up! I highly recommend impressing your dining partner by ordering the black caviar dessert, it is a nice surprise!

Moscow is truly a magnificent city. Whether you are looking for a one of a kind dining experience or a quick, casual concept on the go, the food scene in Moscow has now earned a top spot on the world’s culinary map. 

Thank you for reading and keep styling,

Olia