Moscow is a city where the Moscow River plays a central role in shaping the city’s landscape and atmosphere. Dining along the river offers not only delicious meals but also breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Kremlin, Red Square, and the Moscow City skyscrapers. Whether you’re looking for romantic settings, relaxed outdoor seating, or fine dining experiences, Moscow’s riverfront restaurants provide the perfect blend of scenic views and fantastic food. Here are some of the best riverfront dining spots in Moscow to enjoy a scenic meal.
1. Gorky Park Café
Nestled along the Moscow River within Gorky Park, Gorky Park Café is a casual and scenic spot perfect for enjoying a laid-back meal while taking in beautiful views of the river and surrounding greenery. Whether you’re visiting in the summer for a relaxing drink on the terrace or enjoying a cozy meal in winter, this café offers an inviting atmosphere for all seasons.
What to Expect:
- Casual Dining: The menu includes a variety of Russian and European dishes, including salads, sandwiches, pasta, and fresh seafood.
- Outdoor Seating: In the warmer months, dine on the open terrace with sweeping views of Gorky Park and the river.
- Relaxed Vibe: The café offers a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for a casual meal by the water.
Why It’s Great:
- Gorky Park Café combines a scenic location in Gorky Park with tasty dishes and an inviting outdoor seating area, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal by the river.
2. River Lounge
Located in the Radisson Royal Hotel near the Moscow River, River Lounge offers a luxurious and elegant dining experience with a view of the river and the famous Moscow skyline. It’s perfect for those who are looking for both fine dining and stunning views.
What to Expect:
- Russian and European Cuisine: The menu features an array of classic Russian and European dishes with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Expect gourmet options such as grilled fish, steaks, and caviar.
- Panoramic River Views: Dine indoors or on the terrace while enjoying unobstructed views of the Moscow River and landmarks like the Kremlin and St. Basil’s Cathedral.
- Elegant Setting: The interior design is modern and sophisticated, offering a fine dining experience with an emphasis on comfort and luxury.
Why It’s Great:
- River Lounge combines luxurious dining with stunning views of the Moscow River, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a scenic and upscale meal.
3. Sixty
Located on the 60th floor of the Federation Tower, Sixty offers one of the best panoramic views in Moscow, with breathtaking vistas of the Moscow River and Moscow City skyline. This modern restaurant offers European and Russian fusion dishes in a chic and sophisticated setting.
What to Expect:
- Fusion Cuisine: The menu combines elements of Russian and European cuisine, offering dishes like tuna tartare, grilled lobster, and duck with berries.
- 360-Degree Views: The large windows provide a 360-degree view of the city, including the Moscow River and the Moscow City skyscrapers.
- Modern and Elegant Setting: The interior design is sleek and contemporary, offering an upscale, luxurious dining experience with stunning riverfront views.
Why It’s Great:
- Sixty offers an extraordinary dining experience with unmatched panoramic views of the city and river, making it the perfect place for those looking to enjoy a gourmet meal in a luxurious setting.
4. La Cantina
Located near the Moscow River, La Cantina is a delightful Mexican restaurant offering an array of vibrant dishes and a scenic setting with great views of the river. The restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for a relaxing meal or a fun evening out.
What to Expect:
- Mexican Cuisine: The menu features a variety of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and grilled meats, along with sizzling fajitas and a wide range of tequila and cocktail options.
- Riverside Terrace: Enjoy your meal on the outdoor terrace with views of the Moscow River, especially during the summer months when the weather is warm.
- Casual Atmosphere: La Cantina is perfect for those looking for a casual, relaxed meal with great food and a beautiful river view.
Why It’s Great:
- La Cantina provides an affordable and casual Mexican dining experience by the Moscow River, making it a great spot for enjoying flavorful dishes with a riverside view.
5. The Boat Restaurant – Radisson Royal Hotel
For a completely unique dining experience, consider visiting The Boat Restaurant located in the Radisson Royal Hotel. Situated on a boat on the Moscow River, this restaurant combines the charm of a floating restaurant with a luxury dining experience.
What to Expect:
- Russian and European Cuisine: The menu features a variety of European and Russian specialties, including roasted meats, fresh seafood, and vegetarian dishes.
- Floating Dining Experience: Enjoy your meal on a boat while cruising along the Moscow River, offering unique views of the Moscow skyline and landmarks like the Kremlin.
- Romantic Atmosphere: The restaurant offers a romantic setting, perfect for special occasions or a night out with a stunning view of the water.
Why It’s Great:
- The Boat Restaurant offers a unique, romantic dining experience on the Moscow River, making it perfect for those looking for an unforgettable, scenic meal.
6. Saba
For a Mediterranean twist on riverfront dining, Saba offers a charming setting with views of the Moscow River. The restaurant serves fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a relaxed and stylish atmosphere.
What to Expect:
- Mediterranean Cuisine: Enjoy an array of Mediterranean dishes such as grilled seafood, mezzes, and tabbouleh, along with delicious fish and vegetarian options.
- River Views: The outdoor terrace offers a great view of the river, perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink while watching the boats pass by.
- Chic and Relaxed: The restaurant has a stylish yet laid-back atmosphere, making it a great place for casual dining by the water.
Why It’s Great:
- Saba offers a relaxed yet stylish dining experience with Mediterranean flavors and beautiful views of the Moscow River, perfect for a peaceful and flavorful meal by the water.
7. Barkhat
Located on the riverbanks, Barkhat offers Italian cuisine with a delightful atmosphere and fantastic views of the Moscow River. Known for its romantic setting and top-notch Italian dishes, this spot is perfect for a special night out.
What to Expect:
- Italian Cuisine: The menu features a variety of pasta, pizza, seafood, and freshly made salads.
- Beautiful River Views: The outdoor terrace offers stunning views of the river, perfect for a scenic dinner as you watch the sunset over Moscow.
- Romantic Vibes: With soft lighting and a cozy atmosphere, Barkhat is the perfect spot for a romantic meal by the river.
Why It’s Great:
- Barkhat combines authentic Italian cuisine with a beautiful riverside location, offering a perfect setting for a romantic evening with scenic views.
Conclusion
Moscow’s riverfront dining options offer a variety of experiences, from casual meals with views of the Moscow River to luxury dining with panoramic vistas of the city’s landmarks. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed meal at Gorky Park Café, a gourmet experience at Sixty, or a unique floating restaurant experience on the Moscow River, these spots provide both incredible scenic views and exceptional food. Moscow’s riverfront restaurants offer the perfect setting for any occasion, combining delicious food with the city’s most iconic sights.