Moscow is known for its luxurious dining scene, but there are also plenty of options for those looking to enjoy delicious food on a budget. From traditional Russian comfort food to international flavors, you can find affordable eateries that offer high-quality meals without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to some of the best places in Moscow where you can enjoy cheap yet delicious food.
1. Varenichnaya №1
Cuisine: Russian, Dumplings
Location: Various locations across Moscow
Varenichnaya №1 is a beloved spot in Moscow that specializes in dumplings and Russian comfort food. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual and cozy, making it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly meal that still delivers on flavor and authenticity.
What to Try
- Pelmeni: Traditional Russian dumplings filled with beef or pork, served with sour cream.
- Vareniki: Dumplings stuffed with a variety of fillings like potatoes, mushrooms, and cherries.
- Borscht: The famous beetroot soup served with a dollop of sour cream.
Why It’s Great
You get hearty, traditional Russian food at affordable prices in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It’s perfect for those looking to sample classic Russian flavors without the high-end prices.
2. LavkaLavka
Cuisine: Russian, Farm-to-Table
Location: Kuznetsky Most, 6
LavkaLavka is a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on local, organic produce. The menu features seasonal Russian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The concept is all about supporting sustainable farming while offering affordable and delicious food.
What to Try
- Shchi (Cabbage Soup): A classic Russian soup made with cabbage, potatoes, and sometimes meat or mushrooms.
- Solanka (Meat Soup): A hearty Russian meat-based soup with pickles and spices.
- Buckwheat with Mushrooms: A traditional dish that showcases the simplicity and flavorful nature of Russian grains and vegetables.
Why It’s Great
With its focus on locally sourced ingredients, LavkaLavka delivers a guilt-free dining experience where you can enjoy fresh food without the high-end restaurant prices.
3. Stolovaya 57
Cuisine: Russian, Soviet
Location: GUM Shopping Mall, Red Square, 3
Stolovaya 57 is a self-service cafeteria located inside the iconic GUM Shopping Mall on Red Square. This restaurant offers traditional Soviet-era meals at affordable prices, making it a perfect choice for travelers looking to eat well without spending a lot.
What to Try
- Pelmeni: Delicious dumplings stuffed with meat, served with sour cream.
- Borscht: The classic beet soup that is rich in flavor and history.
- Pirozhki: Small Russian pies filled with meat, potatoes, or cabbage.
Why It’s Great
You get an authentic Soviet-era cafeteria experience with tasty and budget-friendly meals. The self-service model means you can choose exactly what you want while keeping costs low.
4. Korchma
Cuisine: Russian, Ukrainian
Location: Various locations in Moscow
Korchma is an affordable restaurant that focuses on traditional Russian and Ukrainian dishes, offering a warm and rustic atmosphere. The menu features classic comfort food that is both filling and budget-friendly.
What to Try
- Borscht: A hearty, beetroot-based soup often served with a dollop of sour cream.
- Vareniki: Dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients like potatoes or cherries.
- Shashlik: Russian-style kebabs made from marinated meat, often served with grilled vegetables.
Why It’s Great
With its cozy atmosphere and affordable prices, Korchma is perfect for enjoying traditional dishes in a setting that feels like a traditional Russian inn.
5. Khachapuri I Vino
Cuisine: Georgian
Location: Chistoprudny Boulevard, 12
For something a bit different, try Khachapuri I Vino, a casual Georgian restaurant that serves delicious Georgian food at affordable prices. Known for its khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and other savory dishes, it’s a great spot to enjoy a satisfying meal without overspending.
What to Try
- Khachapuri: A warm, cheesy bread that is a signature Georgian dish.
- Khinkali: Georgian dumplings filled with meat and spices, perfect for sharing.
- Satsivi: A rich, creamy chicken dish served in a walnut sauce.
Why It’s Great
Khachapuri I Vino offers delicious, hearty meals at affordable prices. It’s the perfect place to enjoy Georgian flavors with a friendly atmosphere.
6. Cheburechnaya
Cuisine: Russian, Central Asian
Location: Various locations across Moscow
Cheburechnaya specializes in chebureki—fried meat pies that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. These Central Asian treats are a great snack or meal, and they are available at very affordable prices.
What to Try
- Chebureki: Fried dough filled with beef, lamb, or pork, often paired with fresh herbs and spices.
- Shashlik: A classic Russian and Central Asian kebab served with fresh vegetables.
Why It’s Great
With its no-frills approach to hearty food and low prices, Cheburechnaya is ideal for anyone looking for a quick and tasty meal that won’t break the bank.
7. Bliny i Kasha
Cuisine: Russian
Location: Tverskoy Boulevard, 19
Bliny i Kasha specializes in blini (thin Russian pancakes) and kasha (porridge), two of Russia’s most beloved comfort foods. It’s an affordable and cozy spot where you can enjoy both savory and sweet versions of these dishes.
What to Try
- Blini: Thin pancakes filled with caviar, smoked salmon, or sweet fillings like jam or condensed milk.
- Kasha: Traditional buckwheat porridge, served with butter and sometimes meat or vegetables.
- Pelmeni: Russian dumplings filled with meat and served with sour cream.
Why It’s Great
This restaurant is a great choice for anyone looking to try the ultimate in Russian comfort food at affordable prices. Bliny i Kasha is the place for satisfying, warm dishes that reflect Russia’s culinary heritage.
8. Dve Palochki
Cuisine: Japanese, Asian Fusion
Location: Various locations in Moscow
While Dve Palochki is known for Asian cuisine, it’s a fantastic place for affordable dining in Moscow. The restaurant offers Japanese, Korean, and fusion dishes in a trendy but accessible setting.
What to Try
- Sushi rolls: Fresh, flavorful rolls at an affordable price.
- Wonton soup: A hearty and flavorful soup filled with dumplings.
- Fried rice with vegetables and meat: A simple, filling dish perfect for a quick meal.
Why It’s Great
For those who want to enjoy a variety of cuisines without spending too much, Dve Palochki offers great food in a stylish but budget-friendly environment.
9. Burdov
Cuisine: Russian
Location: Nikitsky Boulevard, 7
Burdov offers hearty Russian meals in a casual, cozy setting. The menu is filled with traditional Russian dishes that are served in large portions, perfect for anyone craving comfort food at an affordable price.
What to Try
- Shchi (Cabbage Soup): A classic and filling cabbage soup.
- Beef Stroganoff: The famous beef stroganoff, rich and creamy.
- Pelmeni: Fresh dumplings served with butter and sour cream.
Why It’s Great
Burdov offers traditional Russian dishes at very reasonable prices, with generous portions that make it ideal for a filling meal.
10. Blinny Dvorik
Cuisine: Russian
Location: Pushkinskaya Square, 4
As the name suggests, Blinny Dvorik is all about blini—traditional Russian pancakes. Located in the heart of Moscow, this café serves both sweet and savory blini, making it a great spot for a cheap yet delicious meal.
What to Try
- Blini with red caviar
- Blini with sour cream and smoked salmon
- Blini with sweetened condensed milk
Why It’s Great
If you’re craving blini, Blinny Dvorik offers an affordable and tasty menu where you can enjoy traditional Russian pancakes in a charming environment.
Conclusion
Moscow has no shortage of delicious and affordable food, whether you’re craving classic Russian comfort food like borscht and pelmeni or something a bit different, like chebureki or blini. From casual eateries like Varenichnaya №1 and Mari Vanna to more contemporary spots like LavkaLavka, these
restaurants prove that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal in Moscow.