Moscow is a city steeped in rich culinary history, and trying traditional Russian dishes is a must for anyone visiting the city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there are certain classic Russian dishes you absolutely should not miss. From hearty soups to delicate pastries, Moscow is home to many restaurants that serve authentic versions of these iconic dishes. Here’s a guide to the must-try Russian dishes and where to find them in Moscow.
1. Borscht
Borscht is one of Russia’s most iconic dishes. This flavorful beet soup, often served hot or cold, is typically made with beets, cabbage, potatoes, and carrots, and it’s commonly topped with a dollop of sour cream. Though it originates from Ukraine, it is considered a staple in Russian cuisine as well.
Where to Eat It:
- Café Pushkin: This upscale, iconic restaurant in Moscow offers a refined version of borscht, served with a generous helping of sour cream and a side of freshly baked bread.
- Varenichnaya №1: A cozy spot with a great reputation for traditional Russian dishes, including a flavorful, hearty bowl of borscht.
Why It’s Great:
- Borscht is not just a soup, it’s a cultural experience. The deep, earthy flavors of beets are balanced with the tanginess of sour cream, making it the perfect introduction to Russian cuisine.
2. Beef Stroganoff
Another iconic dish, Beef Stroganoff consists of tender beef cooked in a creamy sauce of sour cream and mustard. While its origins lie in 19th-century Russia, this dish has traveled the world and is a symbol of Russian culinary refinement.
Where to Eat It:
- Dr. Zhivago: A sophisticated restaurant known for its classic Russian dishes, including a perfectly executed Beef Stroganoff served with buttered potatoes or rice.
- Café Pushkin: Known for its luxurious atmosphere and exceptional Russian cuisine, the Beef Stroganoff here is rich, creamy, and a must-try.
Why It’s Great:
- The combination of tender beef and the creamy, tangy sauce makes Beef Stroganoff a comforting and satisfying meal, ideal for those looking to dive into traditional Russian cuisine.
3. Pelmeni
Pelmeni are Russian dumplings, typically filled with a mixture of ground meat such as beef, pork, or lamb, and served with sour cream or butter. These bite-sized parcels of joy are perfect for a quick meal or a hearty feast.
Where to Eat It:
- Varenichnaya №1: This restaurant is a pelmeni paradise, serving a variety of dumplings, including the traditional meat-filled variety. It’s a must-try for those wanting to experience Russian comfort food at its best.
- Mari Vanna: A cozy spot that’s famous for serving authentic Russian dishes, including pelmeni, with fresh ingredients and homemade flavors.
Why It’s Great:
- Pelmeni are the quintessential Russian comfort food. The combination of delicate dough and flavorful meat filling, served with a dollop of sour cream, makes for a satisfying and comforting dish.
4. Blini
Blini are thin, Russian-style pancakes, often served with a variety of toppings such as caviar, smoked salmon, sour cream, or jam. Blini are traditionally eaten during Maslenitsa, a Russian festival celebrating the end of winter, but they’re popular year-round.
Where to Eat It:
- Korchma Taras Bulba: This traditional restaurant specializes in Ukrainian and Russian cuisine and offers an excellent version of blini. You can choose between savory and sweet fillings to suit your taste.
- Bliny i Pirozhki: Located in the heart of Moscow, this place serves up fluffy blini with a wide range of traditional fillings, including smoked salmon and red caviar.
Why It’s Great:
- Whether you prefer your blini with savory toppings like caviar or a sweet treat like jam, these pancakes are a delicious and versatile dish that’s loved by locals and visitors alike.
5. Shchi
Shchi is a hearty Russian cabbage soup, typically made with cabbage, meat, and potatoes, and sometimes flavored with sour cabbage. It’s a rustic, comforting dish that has been part of Russian cuisine for centuries.
Where to Eat It:
- Café Pushkin: Known for its classic Russian dishes, Café Pushkin serves a rich and satisfying bowl of shchi, bringing out the earthy flavors of the cabbage and meat in this traditional soup.
- Mari Vanna: This restaurant brings a homey vibe to Moscow’s dining scene and is a great place to try a comforting, flavorful bowl of shchi.
Why It’s Great:
- Shchi is a deeply traditional dish in Russia, offering a warm, hearty start to any meal. It’s perfect for those looking for a taste of authentic, Russian soul food.
6. Pirozhki
Pirozhki are small, handheld pastries filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, potatoes, cabbage, or mushrooms. They are commonly served as a snack or part of a larger meal and are loved for their savory fillings and soft, fluffy dough.
Where to Eat It:
- Varenichnaya №1: Known for its traditional Russian pastries, including pirozhki, Varenichnaya №1 serves freshly baked versions of these little delights, often stuffed with meat, vegetables, or cheese.
- Pirozhki i Belyashi: A charming local café that specializes in pirozhki with a variety of savory fillings. It’s an excellent place for a quick and satisfying bite.
Why It’s Great:
- Pirozhki are perfect for those who want a quick, delicious, and filling snack. Their versatility in both savory and sweet fillings makes them a delightful option for any time of day.
7. Kholodets
Kholodets is a traditional Russian dish made from meat broth that’s cooled into a jelly-like consistency and served with garlic and mustard. It’s typically made from pork or beef and is a popular dish in many Russian homes.
Where to Eat It:
- Dr. Zhivago: A high-end restaurant that offers classic Russian dishes in an elegant setting. Their kholodets is served in the traditional way, with the meat jelly and spicy mustard.
- Cafe Pushkin: Another classic option that serves an authentic version of kholodets, often paired with Russian horseradish for an added kick.
Why It’s Great:
- While it may seem unusual to some, kholodets is an authentic Russian dish with a rich, savory flavor that speaks to the country’s hearty culinary traditions.
Conclusion
Moscow offers an abundance of traditional Russian dishes that reflect the country’s deep-rooted culinary history. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of borscht, indulging in beef stroganoff, or sampling pirozhki at a local café, the city is a paradise for those looking to experience the rich flavors of Russia. From sophisticated restaurants like Café Pushkin to cozy spots like Mari Vanna and Varenichnaya №1, Moscow’s food scene provides a diverse range of options for anyone eager to taste the authentic essence of Russian cuisine.
