Voronezh, a charming city in southern Russia, is known for its rich culture, history, and vibrant culinary scene. Among the many delights this city has to offer, its ice cream and desserts are some of the most beloved treats. Whether you’re strolling through the city center or enjoying a quiet afternoon in one of the city’s parks, there are plenty of places to satisfy your sweet tooth. In this guide, we will explore the best ice cream and dessert spots in Voronezh, where you can enjoy everything from traditional Russian pastries to innovative desserts.
1. Ice Cream Parlors in Voronezh
Ice cream is a favorite treat for locals and tourists alike, and Voronezh boasts a variety of places where you can indulge in creamy, flavorful scoops. Here are some of the top ice cream parlors that you should not miss.
1.1 Gelateria La Strada
For authentic, Italian-style gelato, head to Gelateria La Strada. This charming ice cream parlor offers a wide variety of flavors, from classic chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous options like pistachio and tiramisu. The gelato here is made with high-quality ingredients, and it’s the perfect place for those looking for a more sophisticated ice cream experience.
- What to Try: Don’t miss their pistachio gelato, considered one of the best in Voronezh. For something truly unique, try the stracciatella or hazelnut flavors.
- Location: Central Voronezh, near the main shopping streets.
1.2 Plombir – Classic Russian Ice Cream
If you’re looking for a traditional Russian ice cream experience, Plombir is the place to go. This classic Russian dessert is a rich, creamy ice cream made with whole milk and vanilla. It’s often sold in a variety of forms, from bars to cones, and can be found in many cafes and eateries across Voronezh. However, to enjoy it at its finest, visit a dedicated ice cream shop like Plombir on Revolution Avenue, where you can indulge in a range of classic Russian flavors.
- What to Try: The Plombir ice cream served in a cone, topped with chocolate syrup or fruit preserves.
- Location: Revolution Avenue, Voronezh.
1.3 Ice Cream at Voskhod Café
Voskhod Café is a cozy, local spot famous for its high-quality desserts and, of course, its ice cream. The café serves both traditional Russian ice cream and Western-style soft-serve, with a variety of toppings to choose from. Whether you prefer your ice cream served in a cup, cone, or sundae-style, Voskhod offers a delightful assortment of options.
- What to Try: The Ice Cream Sundae topped with fresh fruit and caramel sauce is a crowd favorite.
- Location: Near the central park area of Voronezh.
2. Cafes and Pastry Shops for Sweet Treats
In addition to ice cream, Voronezh is home to a number of fantastic cafes and pastry shops where you can enjoy delicious desserts, from traditional Russian pastries to international favorites. These spots are perfect for those who love to indulge in both hot and cold sweets.
2.1 Café Chocoladnitsa
Café Chocoladnitsa is a stylish and popular café chain in Voronezh, known for its indulgent desserts and rich chocolate creations. Whether you’re craving a piece of cake, a slice of pie, or a cup of hot chocolate, this café offers a cozy setting and a wide range of sweet treats. It’s an ideal place for dessert lovers to enjoy both classic Russian and Western-style pastries.
- What to Try: The chocolate fondant is a must-try for chocolate lovers. Pair it with a warm cup of hot cocoa or coffee.
- Location: Several locations throughout Voronezh, including one near the central shopping district.
2.2 Pâtisserie L’Eclair
For those who appreciate French patisserie, Pâtisserie L’Eclair in Voronezh is a hidden gem. This bakery specializes in creating delicate French desserts like éclairs, macarons, and mille-feuille, all crafted with precision and using the finest ingredients. If you’re looking for a light yet decadent dessert, this is the place to visit.
- What to Try: The French éclairs, filled with vanilla or chocolate cream, are a crowd favorite. Don’t forget to try the macarons as well.
- Location: Near the city center, perfect for a stop after a day of sightseeing.
2.3 Confectionery Art-Café
If you’re in the mood for something truly special, head over to Art-Café, a boutique-style café that blends art with pastry. Known for its beautifully crafted cakes, tarts, and artisan chocolates, Art-Café offers a wide selection of sweet treats that are both visually stunning and delicious. The cozy atmosphere and modern décor make it an ideal place for an afternoon tea or a special dessert.
- What to Try: The tart with berries or the chocolate mousse cake are perfect options for those with a sweet tooth.
- Location: A short walk from the main square in Voronezh.
3. Russian Pastries to Try in Voronezh
Russia has a rich tradition of pastries, many of which are unique to the region. When in Voronezh, make sure to sample some of these delicious treats, often filled with sweet fillings like berries, cream, or jam.
3.1 Pirozhki (Russian Pastries)
Pirozhki are small, sweet (or savory) Russian pastries filled with a variety of fillings, including sweet cottage cheese, jam, or fruit. These pastries are perfect for a quick snack or a light dessert while exploring the city. Many bakeries and cafés in Voronezh offer fresh pirozhki, and they’re often served warm, making them a comforting treat.
- What to Try: The pirozhki with jam, especially when made with fresh seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries.
- Location: Local bakeries throughout the city, especially in the city center.
3.2 Medovik (Honey Cake)
Medovik is a traditional Russian honey cake made of thin layers of honey-infused sponge cake, filled with a creamy filling. This rich and indulgent dessert is a favorite across Russia and can be found in many cafes and restaurants in Voronezh. The combination of honey, cream, and cake makes for a satisfying dessert that perfectly balances sweetness with texture.
- What to Try: The Medovik paired with a cup of strong Russian tea for a full cultural experience.
- Location: Many local cafés and pastry shops, including Café Chocoladnitsa and Art-Café.
3.3 Syrniki (Cheese Pancakes)
Syrniki are small, fried cheese pancakes made from cottage cheese. They are often served with sour cream, jam, or honey and are a beloved dessert or breakfast dish in Russia. If you’re looking for something light yet delicious, syrniki are a great option to try while in Voronezh.
- What to Try: Syrniki served with a dollop of smetana (sour cream) and raspberry jam.
- Location: Popular in many cafes across Voronezh, including at Voskhod Café.
4. Ice Cream and Desserts in Voronezh’s Parks
Voronezh’s parks and green spaces are ideal for enjoying an ice cream or dessert while soaking in the natural beauty. Many of the city’s popular parks feature ice cream stands, kiosks, and outdoor cafes where you can enjoy a sweet treat while relaxing.
4.1 Central Park
Central Park is the heart of the city’s outdoor activities, and it’s the perfect spot to indulge in a sweet treat while enjoying nature. The park is home to several ice cream stands and small cafes where you can grab a scoop of traditional Russian ice cream or a piece of cake. It’s a wonderful place to take a break and people-watch as you savor your dessert.
- What to Try: Grab a scoop of Plombir ice cream from one of the stands and enjoy it while strolling around the park.
- Location: Central Park, Voronezh.
4.2 Admiralteiskaya Embankment
Another beautiful spot for dessert lovers is the Admiralteiskaya Embankment, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the river and stop for a refreshing ice cream. Several cafes along the embankment offer a great variety of desserts, making it an ideal location to relax and enjoy a sweet treat by the water.
- What to Try: Soft-serve ice cream or traditional Russian pastries like pirozhki or vatrushki.
- Location: Along the river embankment in the city center.
Conclusion
Voronezh is a city that knows how to indulge sweet-tooths with its diverse range of ice cream, cakes, pastries, and traditional Russian desserts. Whether you’re in the mood for something cold and refreshing or a rich, creamy dessert, the city has plenty of spots to satisfy your cravings. From the creamy delights of Plombir to the sophisticated offerings at French patisseries, there is no shortage of places to experience the sweet side of Voronezh. Be sure to explore these dessert hotspots the next time you’re in the city—whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment in a park or indulging in a luxurious cake at a local café, Voronezh offers something for every dessert lover.
For more insights into Voronezh’s sweet scene and other delightful experiences, Wander Russia is your perfect guide to discovering this beautiful city.
