Moscow’s restaurant scene is filled with both extravagant and intimate dining spots, but few are as inviting and authentic as family-owned restaurants. These establishments often carry a sense of tradition, personal touch, and a commitment to quality that comes from years of generational expertise. Many of these family-run restaurants in Moscow are known for serving up homemade dishes that reflect the heart and soul of Russian cuisine as well as a few international influences. Whether you’re craving traditional Russian comfort food or modern takes on classic dishes, these family-owned gems are a must-try for anyone visiting Moscow.
1. Mum’s Kitchen
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Mum’s Kitchen is a cozy, family-friendly restaurant that serves up comforting, home-style Russian dishes. As the name suggests, the restaurant focuses on traditional Russian home cooking, with a focus on creating dishes that feel like they’re made with love in your mother’s kitchen. The restaurant has a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes it perfect for families or anyone craving homemade Russian food.
Key Dishes:
- Borscht (beet soup) with sour cream.
- Pelmeni (dumplings) stuffed with meat or vegetables.
- Chicken Kiev (breaded chicken stuffed with garlic butter).
Why Visit:
Mum’s Kitchen feels like stepping into a Russian grandmother’s home, complete with hearty portions and comforting flavors. This family-run restaurant is dedicated to providing traditional meals with a personal touch, making it a true reflection of Russian hospitality.
Tip:
- For a classic Russian experience, enjoy your meal with a side of rye bread and a glass of kvass (fermented rye drink).
2. LavkaLavka
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Founded by a family committed to sustainable farming and the promotion of local produce, LavkaLavka is a family-owned restaurant and farm-to-table market that serves up seasonal dishes made with the finest Russian ingredients. The restaurant is a pioneer in bringing local Russian food to the forefront of Moscow’s culinary scene.
Key Dishes:
- Baked sturgeon with dill and garlic.
- Beef tartare with wild herbs.
- Sautéed wild mushrooms with thyme and garlic.
Why Visit:
At LavkaLavka, you’ll experience food that is deeply connected to local Russian farming traditions. It’s a great spot for those who want to support family businesses and enjoy sustainable, organic ingredients.
Tip:
- LavkaLavka’s market is worth visiting before or after your meal, where you can buy local produce and handcrafted products.
3. Elki-Palki
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Elki-Palki is a popular Russian chain that prides itself on serving traditional Russian dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere. With a focus on affordable yet delicious meals, this family-owned spot is a great place to experience classic Russian food, perfect for a casual meal with the whole family.
Key Dishes:
- Shchi (cabbage soup).
- Shashlik (grilled skewers of meat).
- Syrniki (Russian cheese pancakes).
Why Visit:
Elki-Palki brings the comfort of family recipes to the table, offering a variety of dishes from soups to grilled meats and desserts that make you feel right at home.
Tip:
- Don’t miss the syrniki for dessert—they’re a must-try and perfectly paired with a cup of Russian tea.
4. Serebryanyi Bor
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Located near Serebryanyi Bor, this charming family-owned restaurant offers a mix of Russian and European cuisine with an emphasis on using the finest local ingredients. Known for its impeccable service and serene setting, it’s an ideal place for families looking to enjoy quality food in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Key Dishes:
- Grilled lamb chops with mint sauce.
- Russian borscht with smoked meats.
- Fresh fish from local lakes and rivers.
Why Visit:
Serebryanyi Bor is perfect for those seeking a mix of traditional Russian food and European flavors. Its family-oriented vibe and commitment to local, fresh ingredients make it an ideal spot for a family meal.
Tip:
- The grilled lamb is a standout, and their homemade desserts are a great way to end your meal on a sweet note.
5. Burek
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Burek is a family-owned restaurant specializing in Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisine, with a particular focus on the flavors of the Balkans. The restaurant offers hearty meals with an emphasis on freshly made dough dishes, from burek (savory pastry) to baklava (sweet pastry). It’s a cozy and warm restaurant perfect for families.
Key Dishes:
- Burek with minced meat, cheese, or spinach.
- Grilled kebabs served with a side of flatbread.
- Baklava with honey and pistachios.
Why Visit:
Burek is an excellent spot for those craving hearty Eastern European and Mediterranean dishes. The family behind the restaurant is passionate about creating authentic recipes and serving them with a smile.
Tip:
- Make sure to try their home-baked burek—it’s fresh, flaky, and filled with delicious savory or sweet fillings.
6. Khachapuri I Vino
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
If you’re craving Georgian food, Khachapuri I Vino is a family-run gem in Moscow known for serving some of the best Georgian dishes in the city. The restaurant offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere and specializes in classic Georgian staples, especially khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and wine.
Key Dishes:
- Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread).
- Shashlik (grilled meat skewers).
- Pkhali (vegetable pâté).
Why Visit:
The family’s passion for Georgian cuisine shines through in every dish. Khachapuri I Vino offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can experience authentic Georgian food in a relaxed setting.
Tip:
- Pair your khachapuri with a glass of Georgian wine—they have an excellent selection that pairs perfectly with their menu.
7. Lavka Lavka Gastrobar
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
An offshoot of the LavkaLavka family restaurant, Lavka Lavka Gastrobar specializes in modern Russian food with a twist. This family-owned gastrobar emphasizes seasonal, local ingredients and offers a fresh perspective on traditional Russian fare.
Key Dishes:
- Smoked sturgeon with horseradish sauce.
- Bison tartare with pickled vegetables.
- Wild mushroom soup with cream.
Why Visit:
For adventurous eaters wanting to explore Russian cuisine with a contemporary flair, Lavka Lavka Gastrobar is an ideal choice. The family behind this restaurant is deeply committed to showcasing the best of local, organic food in a modern and stylish setting.
Tip:
- Enjoy the wild mushroom soup, made with the freshest seasonal mushrooms from Russia’s forests.
8. Shashlychok
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Shashlychok is a family-owned restaurant that specializes in grilled meats and shashlik (Russian-style skewers). With its welcoming environment and hearty dishes, it’s an excellent place for families to enjoy quality meals in a relaxed setting.
Key Dishes:
- Shashlik with lamb or pork.
- Grilled vegetables with herbs.
- Homemade pickles and sauces.
Why Visit:
If you love grilled meats and Russian barbecue, Shashlychok offers some of the best in the city. The family-friendly atmosphere and attention to detail make it perfect for a cozy meal with loved ones.
Tip:
- Pair your shashlik with their house-made pickles and a glass of Russian kvass.
Conclusion
Moscow’s family-owned restaurants provide some of the best food in the city, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere along with delicious, authentic dishes. Whether you’re craving traditional Russian comfort food, Eastern European specialties, or modern twists on classic flavors, these family-run gems give you a taste of the city’s culinary soul. From hearty shashlik at Shashlychok to sustainable dishes at LavkaLavka, these restaurants offer both incredible food and the charm of a family business that values quality, tradition, and hospitality.