Moscow is home to several bookstore cafés where you can immerse yourself in the world of literature while sipping a freshly brewed cup of coffee. These venues offer a unique blend of relaxation, creativity, and intellectual stimulation, providing the perfect environment for book lovers to browse, read, and enjoy a good cup of coffee. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these bookstore cafés in Moscow provide a cozy atmosphere where books and coffee go hand in hand. Here’s a guide to some of the best bookstore cafés in the city for those who want to enjoy a good read while savoring a great cup of coffee.
1. BOOKVOED
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
BOOKVOED is an iconic bookstore in Moscow that has combined the magic of books with the comfort of coffee. Located in the city center, BOOKVOED offers a spacious and cozy environment, perfect for reading, studying, or simply enjoying a coffee. The café within the bookstore serves a selection of specialty coffee drinks, tea, and freshly baked pastries, allowing book lovers to enjoy a full experience.
Why Visit:
The atmosphere at BOOKVOED is ideal for anyone looking to spend time with a book and a cup of coffee in hand. The store boasts a wide selection of books in Russian and a variety of international titles. It’s a great place for both book browsing and enjoying some quiet time with a beverage.
Tip:
- Spend some time in their reading nook, where you can relax with a good book and a cup of latte or chai.
2. Read & Eat
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Read & Eat is a charming bookstore café that invites guests to enjoy a meal or coffee while surrounded by shelves of books. This bookstore café is known for its cozy ambiance and wide selection of both Russian and foreign literature. With a small but inviting menu, including salads, pastries, and specialty coffee, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed morning or afternoon.
Why Visit:
What makes Read & Eat stand out is its ability to combine books, food, and coffee into one delightful experience. The friendly atmosphere and comfortable seating make it an excellent spot for anyone who wants to combine the joy of reading with the pleasure of a good meal.
Tip:
- Check out their book-themed events, such as literary discussions or book launches, if you’re in the mood for a more interactive experience.
3. Moscow’s Book Café (Knizhnyy Klub)
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Located in the heart of Moscow, Moscow’s Book Café (or Knizhnyy Klub) is a bookstore and café hybrid that offers an inviting space for bookworms and coffee lovers. This cozy café is perfect for spending an afternoon, offering an excellent selection of books alongside a wide variety of coffee drinks, from espresso to cappuccinos and lattes. They also have an impressive array of Russian and international magazines and newspapers to browse.
Why Visit:
The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, and it’s a great place to unwind while enjoying your coffee and reading. The café also serves delicious pastries, including cakes and pies, making it a perfect spot for a sweet break. The combination of books and coffee in this space creates a relaxed environment perfect for reading or even getting some work done.
Tip:
- Don’t forget to try their homemade pastries, which pair perfectly with a flat white or Americano.
4. Café-Biblioteka (Library Café)
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Café-Biblioteka is a unique bookstore café that brings together the pleasures of books, coffee, and food in a stunning library-inspired setting. Located in the Kremlin area, this café has a distinctive literary vibe, with bookshelves lining the walls and comfortable seating areas where you can enjoy reading in peace. In addition to great coffee, Café-Biblioteka serves light bites and European-style snacks that pair perfectly with your drink.
Why Visit:
The design and layout of Café-Biblioteka make it a great place for quiet reading while sipping your coffee. The café also regularly hosts book-themed events, such as readings and literary clubs, adding an extra layer of appeal for book lovers.
Tip:
- Check out their book events or workshops to engage with fellow literature enthusiasts while enjoying coffee and conversation.
5. Falanster
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Falanster is a beloved independent bookstore café located near Chistye Prudy. This intimate space offers a curated selection of books on topics like philosophy, literature, and art, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves thought-provoking reads. The café serves delicious coffee, organic teas, and healthy snacks, making it a perfect stop for those seeking a place to read or relax while sipping a beverage.
Why Visit:
Falanster is a haven for intellectuals and creative souls. The café’s unique selection of books, paired with homemade cakes and coffee, provides an ideal setting for spending long hours reading, writing, or just enjoying a peaceful break from the city bustle.
Tip:
- If you’re a literary enthusiast, spend some time exploring their independent book selections, and grab a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
6. Dom Knigi (House of Books)
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Dom Knigi is one of Moscow’s oldest and most famous bookstores. Situated near Arbat, it offers an extensive range of books from Russian classics to contemporary literature. The in-house café provides a comfortable spot to enjoy a coffee or tea while diving into a book. With its cozy seating and relaxing ambiance, Dom Knigi is ideal for those who want to unwind with a good read and a freshly brewed cup.
Why Visit:
As a longstanding hub for book lovers, Dom Knigi provides an inviting environment where you can explore new books and enjoy a relaxing coffee break. The café inside offers a quiet, peaceful environment for those wanting to take a break from shopping or sightseeing.
Tip:
- Head to the second floor, where the café overlooks the bustling street, providing a perfect spot to relax and read.
7. Bookseum
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Bookseum is a book-themed café and museum that offers an immersive experience for book lovers in Moscow. With its extensive collection of Russian and international books, along with an array of coffee drinks, this café is a place where literature and caffeine enthusiasts can come together. In addition to books and coffee, the museum aspect adds a unique twist, as it often hosts exhibitions on literature and book culture.
Why Visit:
For a cultural experience, Bookseum provides a great environment for reading, exploring books, and enjoying a cup of coffee. It’s perfect for those looking for something more than just a typical bookstore café but a place that combines art, literature, and coffee.
Tip:
- Take a few minutes to explore their current exhibitions before you settle down with your coffee and book.
Conclusion
Moscow’s bookstore cafés provide the perfect combination of books and coffee, offering a cozy atmosphere where you can unwind and indulge in both literature and sweet treats. From elegant settings like Pierre Hermé and Café Pushkin to more intimate spots like Falanster and Read & Eat, there’s a place for every book lover in Moscow. Whether you’re looking to browse new books, attend a literary event, or simply relax with a coffee, these bookstore cafés offer a refined and creative space to enjoy your favorite activities.
