While Russian cuisine is often associated with hearty meats and dairy-based products, the country has a growing vegan scene that is blending traditional flavors with plant-based ingredients. With an increasing awareness of veganism and sustainability, more and more vegan restaurants have been opening across Russia, offering innovative twists on classic dishes or introducing completely new plant-based creations.
For tourists and locals alike, exploring the vegan food scene in Russia offers a chance to experience the richness of Russian culinary traditions in a whole new light. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best vegan restaurants in Russia and the traditional Russian dishes they offer for those on a plant-based diet.
1. Vegan Bistro in Moscow – “Botanika”
Overview
Moscow, being Russia’s capital, boasts a number of trendy vegan restaurants. Botanika is a popular choice, known for its innovative plant-based cuisine and commitment to serving fresh, organic ingredients. This vegan bistro offers a cozy ambiance and a menu that celebrates traditional Russian flavors with a modern twist.
Traditional Dishes at Botanika
- Vegan Borscht: Borscht is one of Russia’s most iconic dishes, traditionally made with meat or beef broth. At Botanika, the borscht is made with a rich beetroot base, vegetables, and fresh herbs, without the use of animal products. Served with vegan sour cream, it’s a satisfying and flavorful version of this classic.
- Vegan Blini: Blini, the beloved Russian pancakes, are usually served with butter and sour cream, but at Botanika, they are made without dairy, often served with a variety of fillings such as mushrooms, berries, or sweet fruit spreads.
- Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: Traditional Russian golubtsy (stuffed cabbage rolls) are typically filled with a mixture of minced meat and rice. At Botanika, they offer a vegan version, stuffed with a delicious mix of lentils, rice, and vegetables, all simmered in a tangy tomato sauce.
Why Botanika?
Botanika is a great place to experience Russian flavors in a vegan-friendly way. The menu combines traditional Russian dishes with a modern, health-conscious approach, and the use of local, organic ingredients makes it even more appealing to vegans and environmentally-conscious diners.
2. Saint Petersburg Vegan Restaurant – “Café Botanika”
Overview
Saint Petersburg is known for its artistic vibe and vibrant food scene, and Café Botanika stands out as a vegan hotspot in the city. This café is perfect for those looking to experience Russian-inspired plant-based meals made with fresh, seasonal produce. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, and the menu has something for everyone.
Traditional Dishes at Café Botanika
- Vegan Olivier Salad: The Olivier salad is a beloved Russian dish often associated with New Year’s celebrations. At Café Botanika, the traditional version is made vegan by replacing mayonnaise with a creamy plant-based alternative and using tofu or chickpeas instead of meat or eggs. It’s a refreshing, light dish that keeps the flavor of the original salad.
- Vegan Pirozhki: Pirozhki are small, stuffed pastries often filled with meat, potatoes, or cabbage. Café Botanika serves a vegan version filled with mushrooms, cabbage, and onions, making it a perfect snack or light meal.
- Borscht: Like most Russian vegan-friendly restaurants, Café Botanika offers a plant-based version of borscht, made without any animal products but still delivering the familiar rich and hearty flavor. The soup is often served with a dollop of vegan sour cream and fresh dill.
Why Café Botanika?
Café Botanika is a cozy, welcoming café that caters to both vegans and vegetarians. With a menu that fuses traditional Russian cuisine with vegan-friendly alternatives, it’s a perfect spot for tourists who want to explore Russian flavors in a new, plant-based way.
3. Vegan Café in Moscow – “Kukhnya”
Overview
Located in the heart of Moscow, Kukhnya is an innovative vegan café that focuses on healthy eating and plant-based versions of classic Russian comfort foods. The café is known for its creative menu, vibrant atmosphere, and commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Traditional Dishes at Kukhnya
- Vegan Shchi (Cabbage Soup): Traditional Russian shchi is made with meat-based broth, but Kukhnya’s version uses a vegan broth infused with fresh vegetables and cabbage. This hearty soup is perfect for cold winter days and is often served with rye bread.
- Vegan Kholodets: Traditionally, kholodets is a meat jelly, often made from pork or beef. Kukhnya offers a vegan version made from agar agar, vegetable stock, and mushrooms, which mimics the rich, gelatinous texture of the classic dish.
- Vegan Pelmeni: Pelmeni are Russian dumplings typically filled with minced meat, but Kukhnya’s vegan version is stuffed with a mixture of tofu, vegetables, and spices. These dumplings are served with vegan sour cream and are perfect for those craving comfort food.
Why Kukhnya?
Kukhnya is popular for its creative take on Russian classics. It’s an excellent place for tourists to try traditional dishes while still adhering to a plant-based diet. The restaurant’s emphasis on fresh, organic ingredients and healthy cooking techniques makes it an ideal spot for vegan diners who want to experience Russian food in a sustainable way.
4. Moscow Vegan Restaurant – “Vegan na Kuznetskom”
Overview
Vegan na Kuznetskom is a trendy vegan eatery located in the heart of Moscow, offering an authentic Russian dining experience with a modern twist. The restaurant specializes in plant-based versions of traditional Russian dishes, and its vibrant décor and cozy atmosphere make it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Traditional Dishes at Vegan na Kuznetskom
- Vegan Olivier Salad: This famous Russian salad, typically made with boiled potatoes, peas, and eggs, is reimagined at Vegan na Kuznetskom with plant-based mayo and tofu, making it both creamy and satisfying without the use of animal products.
- Baked Eggplant with Vegan Caviar: This dish takes a traditional Russian favorite, eggplant, and combines it with vegan caviar, made from seaweed or tomatoes, offering a plant-based alternative to the traditional fish roe.
- Vegan Porridge (Kasha): Traditional Russian kasha (buckwheat porridge) is often enjoyed as a breakfast or side dish. Vegan na Kuznetskom offers a delicious version made with plant-based milk, fruit, and spices, for a warm and filling meal.
Why Vegan na Kuznetskom?
Vegan na Kuznetskom offers an authentic taste of Russia with a focus on plant-based ingredients. The menu offers familiar Russian flavors in a new, vegan-friendly form, and the restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients makes it a great choice for those looking to experience Russian cuisine in a sustainable and ethical way.
5. Saint Petersburg Vegan Restaurant – “Tsoy”
Overview
In the heart of Saint Petersburg, Tsoy is a beloved vegan restaurant known for its creative, flavorful dishes that showcase Russian ingredients in a fresh, plant-based way. The restaurant’s relaxed vibe and inventive menu have made it a favorite among vegans and food lovers in the city.
Traditional Dishes at Tsoy
- Vegan Vareniki: Vareniki, the famous dumplings, are filled with a variety of ingredients, but Tsoy offers a vegan version filled with mashed potatoes, onions, and mushrooms, served with a side of vegan sour cream.
- Vegan Pirozhki: Tsoy also serves delicious vegan pirozhki (Russian stuffed pastries), filled with mushrooms, cabbage, or lentils for a savory, satisfying bite.
- Vegan Borscht: Tsoy offers a vegan-friendly version of borscht, made without any animal-based stock, but still rich and hearty with beets, cabbage, potatoes, and a touch of vinegar for acidity.
Why Tsoy?
Tsoy is perfect for tourists who want to experience traditional Russian dishes with a vegan twist. The restaurant’s creative approach to Russian cuisine makes it a must-visit for plant-based diners.
Conclusion
Russia’s vegan food scene is growing, and with the rise of restaurants offering plant-based versions of traditional dishes, it’s easier than ever for tourists to experience the rich flavors of Russian cuisine without compromising their dietary preferences. From vegan borscht and pelmeni to pirozhki and vegan caviar, these dishes provide a fresh take on classic Russian flavors. So, whether you’re in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, or anywhere in between, these vegan-friendly Russian restaurants offer a chance to indulge in delicious, sustainable meals while experiencing the country’s culinary heritage.