Dining in Moscow is an experience that blends imperial grandeur, global innovation, and a surprising warmth that reflects Russian hospitality. Whether you crave traditional pelmeni and borsch or fine dining with skyline views, the Moscow restaurant scene is as rich and varied as the city itself. This guide highlights top restaurants, local dishes, dining customs, and practical tips to help you enjoy every meal in Russia’s capital.
Top Fine Dining Restaurants in Moscow
Moscow boasts some of Eastern Europe’s most acclaimed restaurants — many appearing in global rankings for innovation and quality. Here are a few leading names to add to your itinerary:
- White Rabbit: Ranked among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, this rooftop gem offers creative Russian cuisine with panoramic city views. Try their reinvented beetroot soup or crab salad with sour cream foam.
- Café Pushkin: A Moscow institution housed in a 19th-century mansion, known for nostalgic charm, attentive service, and signature dishes like beef stroganoff and borsch with pampushki.
- Beluga: Overlooking the Kremlin, Beluga specializes in Russian caviar, fine seafood, and premium vodka tastings — the epitome of Moscow elegance.
- Turatto: Contemporary Italian-Russian fusion in the Patriarch Ponds district, popular among Moscow’s creative elite.
- Selfie: Sleek, modern restaurant focusing on locally sourced ingredients — seasonal tasting menus highlight Siberian fish, Kamchatka crab, and northern mushrooms.
Casual & Local Dining
Beyond the luxury scene, Moscow’s casual restaurants and cafés deliver authentic flavors without breaking your budget. You’ll find everything from Soviet-style canteens to modern bistros with home-cooked charm.
- Varenichnaya №1: Nostalgic Soviet-themed diner serving dumplings, pancakes, and hearty soups.
- Dr. Zhivago: Near Red Square, known for contemporary takes on classic Russian cuisine and bright, retro-modern décor.
- Grabli Cafeteria: Self-service local chain perfect for quick, inexpensive Russian meals.
- Marketplace: Trendy canteen concept offering international dishes and local favorites in a lively atmosphere.
- Khachapuri I Vino: Beloved Georgian restaurant where you can try cheese-filled khachapuri and spicy adjika sauces.
Expect to spend around 1,000–1,800 RUB for a satisfying mid-range meal with a drink. Most local restaurants open until midnight, and many offer English menus in central districts.
Traditional Russian Dishes to Try
No visit to Moscow is complete without tasting the city’s timeless classics. These dishes tell the story of Russia’s geography, climate, and soul:
- Borsch: Beetroot soup served hot or cold, topped with sour cream.
- Pelmeni: Meat-filled dumplings often served with butter or vinegar.
- Blini: Thin pancakes eaten with jam, honey, or caviar.
- Olivier Salad: Traditional Russian “New Year” salad with potatoes, peas, and mayonnaise.
- Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef in a creamy mushroom sauce.
- Kvass: Fermented bread drink — slightly sweet, slightly tangy, and uniquely Russian.
Vegetarian & Vegan Dining
While Russian cuisine is meat-heavy, Moscow has become surprisingly vegan-friendly in recent years. Modern plant-based cafés and international brands are easy to find across central neighborhoods.
- Fresh: Stylish vegan restaurant near Pushkinskaya Square — creative bowls, smoothies, and raw desserts.
- Jagannath: Long-time vegetarian favorite serving Indian-inspired curries, soups, and bakery treats.
- Falafel Bro: Local street-food chain specializing in falafel wraps and vegan shawarma.
- Avocado Queen: Chic casual spot by Novikov Group focusing on plant-based Mediterranean meals.
Sweet Treats & Coffee Culture
Moscow’s café culture rivals that of Western Europe. Locals love meeting for dessert and coffee after work — and the city’s pastry chefs deliver perfection.
- Coffee Mania: Premium chain famous for expertly brewed coffee and light brunches.
- Volkonsky Bakery: Elegant patisserie known for croissants, cakes, and delicate Russian desserts.
- Upside Down Cake: Minimalist café loved by creatives, serving homemade cheesecakes and great espresso.
- Pioner Cinema Café: Perfect mix of film culture and coffee near Gorky Park.
Dining Etiquette & Tips
Moscow’s dining scene follows a mix of European and Russian customs:
- Always greet staff with a polite “Zdravstvuyte” (Здравствуйте).
- Wait to be seated in formal restaurants — don’t pick your own table.
- It’s polite to leave 5–10% tip for good service.
- Smoking indoors is banned everywhere.
- Tap water is safe for washing but bottled water is preferred for drinking.
Some restaurants automatically include a service charge; always check your bill before tipping.
Budget Overview
| Meal Type | Average Cost (RUB) |
|---|---|
| Budget meal at local diner | 800–1,200 |
| Mid-range restaurant dinner | 2,000–3,500 |
| Fine dining experience | 7,000–12,000+ |
| Coffee and dessert | 400–700 |
For details on payment options and local currency, see Moscow Money.
Where to Go Next
- Food & Drinks in Moscow – Explore broader dining and nightlife options.
- Nightlife in Moscow – Continue your evening with cocktails and live music.
- Travel Tips for Moscow – Learn practical advice for a seamless experience.
From opulent dining rooms to cozy corner cafés, Moscow’s restaurants embody the city’s dual spirit — elegant yet unpretentious, historic yet endlessly creative. Every meal here is not just food — it’s a taste of Russian culture, hospitality, and modern ambition.
