Moscow is a city rich in history and culture, and its chocolate and confectionery scene is no exception. From luxurious chocolate boutiques to charming pastry shops, Moscow offers a wide variety of sweet treats that will satisfy any dessert lover. Whether you’re craving decadent chocolates, delicate pastries, or traditional Russian sweets, here’s a list of the best chocolate and confectionery shops in Moscow that every dessert enthusiast should visit.
1. Khvanchkara
Why It’s Great:
Located in the heart of Moscow, Khvanchkara is a premium chocolate boutique known for its luxurious handmade chocolates. The shop prides itself on using high-quality, natural ingredients and offering beautifully crafted artisanal chocolates. If you’re looking for something special, Khvanchkara creates custom-made chocolate gifts and unique assortments.
What to Try:
- Handmade truffles with rich fillings like caramel, hazelnut, and pistachio.
- Chocolate-covered fruits and nuts.
- The signature chocolates with exotic fillings.
Location:
- Address: 1/2, Tverskoy Boulevard, Moscow.
2. Pasta & Sweets by David Lebovitz
Why It’s Great:
While this spot is relatively new to Moscow, it has quickly gained a reputation for serving some of the best desserts in the city. Created by famous American pastry chef David Lebovitz, the shop combines classic French pastries with innovative twists. It’s a haven for those who love rich, decadent chocolate combined with other indulgent ingredients.
What to Try:
- The rich chocolate tarts with chocolate ganache.
- Chocolate éclairs and truffle-based pastries.
- The flaky croissants filled with sweet chocolate or hazelnut cream.
Location:
- Address: 22/5, Bolshaya Nikitskaya Street, Moscow.
3. Shokoladnitsa
Why It’s Great:
Shokoladnitsa is a well-known Russian chocolate café chain loved by locals and tourists alike. It offers a wide range of chocolates, pastries, and sweets, including hot drinks and a cozy atmosphere. Ideal for a casual chocolate fix, this chain is popular for its rich hot chocolate and other chocolate-based desserts.
What to Try:
- The classic Russian chocolate cake (often featuring layers of chocolate mousse).
- Chocolate fondue served with fresh fruits and marshmallows.
- Hot chocolate, which is thick and luxurious.
Location:
- Address: Multiple locations across Moscow, including near Red Square and Arbat Street.
4. Café Pushkin
Why It’s Great:
Known for its elegance and timeless ambiance, Café Pushkin is a must-visit for dessert lovers. This fine-dining restaurant doubles as a confectionery haven, offering traditional Russian desserts as well as luxurious chocolate options. The atmosphere is reminiscent of the Tsarist era, with grand interiors and a sophisticated menu that includes decadent chocolate treats.
What to Try:
- The Chocolate Soufflé – a rich, warm dessert with a molten chocolate center.
- Torta Napoleon – a traditional Russian dessert with a custard filling and layers of flaky pastry, often served with chocolate.
- Signature hot chocolate, rich and creamy, perfect for colder months.
Location:
- Address: 26/2, Tverskoy Boulevard, Moscow.
5. Varenichnaya No. 1
Why It’s Great:
Although primarily known for its Russian dumplings (vareniki), Varenichnaya No. 1 also offers a variety of delicious chocolate-based desserts. The café provides a unique combination of traditional Russian comfort food and mouthwatering sweets. It’s a great place to visit if you want to explore Russian dessert traditions while enjoying some chocolate-based treats.
What to Try:
- Chocolate cake with a rich, soft filling.
- Chocolate dumplings filled with sweet cocoa cream.
- Russian chocolate mousse with berries and cream.
Location:
- Address: 27, Bolshaya Nikitskaya Street, Moscow.
6. Bottega di Vino
Why It’s Great:
This boutique wine shop and pastry café is known for its elegant, gourmet approach to desserts. Located in Moscow’s city center, Bottega di Vino serves handcrafted desserts that pair beautifully with wines. The focus on quality and luxury makes it a destination for those seeking both fine chocolates and gourmet sweet creations.
What to Try:
- Chocolate mousse with a silky-smooth texture.
- Tart with dark chocolate and raspberry – a delicious contrast of sweet and tart.
- Cakes and truffles made with the finest dark chocolate.
Location:
- Address: 8, Sadovaya-Triumfalnaya Street, Moscow.
7. Chocoladnitsa
Why It’s Great:
Another popular Russian chain, Chocoladnitsa offers a wide range of chocolate desserts and pastries, along with hot drinks in a relaxed and modern setting. The chain is well-known for its rich and indulgent chocolates, and it’s a great place to visit if you’re in the mood for both sweets and a cozy café experience.
What to Try:
- Chocolate soufflé with vanilla ice cream.
- Chocolate cheesecake and mocha desserts.
- The signature hot chocolate, rich and creamy.
Location:
- Address: Multiple locations around Moscow, including near Red Square and Kievskaya Metro Station.
8. Marussia Confectionery
Why It’s Great:
Marussia Confectionery is a charming boutique offering high-quality chocolates and Russian sweets. This shop specializes in luxurious chocolate products, from classic truffles to innovative sweets infused with unique flavors. It’s a hidden gem for dessert lovers who appreciate quality ingredients and artistic chocolate creations.
What to Try:
- Truffle sets with various fillings such as hazelnut and caramel.
- Chocolate pralines with intricate decorations and high-quality dark chocolate.
- Russian-style chocolate cakes and pastries.
Location:
- Address: 1, Chistoprudny Boulevard, Moscow.
9. The Chocolate Factory
Why It’s Great:
As the name suggests, The Chocolate Factory is dedicated to crafting the finest chocolate products, from handmade truffles to rich chocolate bars. Located in central Moscow, this chocolate shop is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in premium, artisanal chocolate.
What to Try:
- Assorted chocolate truffles, each with unique fillings such as caramel, marzipan, and fruit.
- Handmade chocolate bars with rich dark chocolate and various toppings like nuts, spices, and berries.
- Chocolate-covered fruits like strawberries and cherries.
Location:
- Address: 7, Pyatnitskaya Street, Moscow.
10. Sweets & Company
Why It’s Great:
This delightful shop specializes in both Russian traditional sweets and international chocolate treats. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Russian desserts or decadent chocolate-based pastries, Sweets & Company offers a wide range of options to satisfy every sweet tooth.
What to Try:
- Traditional Russian honey cake (Medovik) with a chocolate twist.
- Chocolate éclairs with rich chocolate filling.
- Gourmet chocolate cakes.
Location:
- Address: 9, Sadovaya Street, Moscow.
Conclusion: A Sweet Journey Through Moscow’s Best Chocolate Spots
Moscow is a paradise for dessert lovers, with chocolate boutiques, pastry cafés, and confectionery shops scattered throughout the city. Whether you’re indulging in handmade truffles, enjoying a decadent chocolate cake, or sipping on rich hot chocolate, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Make sure to visit these top spots in the city to experience the best of Moscow’s chocolate and confectionery scene.