Kazan, with its rich Tatar and Russian heritage, is an excellent place to explore local delicacies and authentic Russian products. Whether you’re looking for traditional Tatar foods, Russian staples, or unique ingredients that are hard to find elsewhere, the supermarkets in Kazan offer a great selection. From fresh produce to specialty items, here’s a guide to the best supermarkets in Kazan for Russian and Tatar products.
1. Azbuka Vkusa
Azbuka Vkusa is one of Russia’s most well-known premium supermarket chains, offering an extensive selection of Russian and international products. It’s a great place to shop for high-quality local products, including Tatar delicacies and Russian gourmet items.
Why Visit:
- Tatar Specialties: Azbuka Vkusa carries a wide range of Tatar foods, including kazy (Tatar horsemeat sausage), chak-chak (traditional honey dessert), and samsa (Tatar pastries).
- Gourmet Russian Products: You’ll find traditional Russian items such as black caviar, sauerkraut, and smoked meats.
- Imported Goods: In addition to local products, Azbuka Vkusa stocks international and premium products, so it’s perfect for a luxury shopping experience.
Duration:
- 30 to 45 minutes for browsing the aisles and exploring the local offerings.
Location:
- Azbuka Vkusa, Kremlin Street, Kazan
2. Magnit
Magnit is one of the largest supermarket chains in Russia, known for offering a broad selection of affordable products, including local Russian and Tatar goods. It’s a great choice for those on a budget who want to experience traditional flavors.
Why Visit:
- Russian Classics: Magnit offers a wide variety of Russian products, including smoked fish, pickled vegetables, and Russian-style bread.
- Tatar Products: You can find Tatar-specific items such as Tatar pastries, meats, and dairies like tvorog (cottage cheese).
- Affordable Prices: Known for its reasonable prices, Magnit provides a good selection of local goods without breaking the bank.
Duration:
- 20 to 30 minutes for a quick grocery stop or to pick up specific Tatar and Russian products.
Location:
- Multiple locations throughout Kazan, including near Bauman Street and Kremlevskaya Street.
3. Lenta
Lenta is another popular supermarket chain in Kazan, offering a mix of both local Tatar and Russian products as well as international foods. Known for its wide aisles and great deals, Lenta is a great place for grocery shopping.
Why Visit:
- Tatar and Russian Products: Lenta carries a large selection of Tatar meats, including kazy and salam (smoked sausage), as well as local honey, Tatar tea, and other regional specialties.
- Russian Pantry Staples: The supermarket also has a variety of pantry essentials like borscht mixes, canned fish, and traditional Russian spices.
- Variety: Lenta offers a good selection of local produce, fresh meats, and dairy at affordable prices.
Duration:
- 30 to 45 minutes for a well-rounded shopping experience.
Location:
- Lenta, Vysokovoltnaya Street, Kazan
4. Perekrestok
Perekrestok is a well-known premium supermarket chain that provides a wide selection of Russian gourmet foods and high-quality local products. It’s a perfect spot for those who want to explore traditional Tatar and Russian delicacies with a focus on quality.
Why Visit:
- Local Specialties: Perekrestok offers Tatar meats, such as horsemeat sausages and smoked fish, along with a variety of pickles, canned goods, and local sweets like chak-chak and tufahija (Tatar-style stuffed apples).
- Gourmet Items: The supermarket is known for premium Russian products like Russian chocolates, caviar, and specialty cheeses.
- Imported Goods: In addition to local products, Perekrestok also carries international items, making it ideal for shoppers looking for high-quality products from around the world.
Duration:
- 30 to 45 minutes for exploring the diverse range of products.
Location:
- Perekrestok, Kremlin Street, Kazan
5. Vprok
For traditional Russian food with a focus on local produce and specialty items, Vprok offers a selection of both Russian classics and Tatar foods. Located in the city center, it’s perfect for those who want to explore authentic local flavors.
Why Visit:
- Tatar and Russian Ingredients: Vprok offers Tatar-specific ingredients, like local honey, Tatar cheese, and regional meats.
- Fresh Local Produce: The supermarket focuses on fresh fruits, vegetables, and seasonal specialties from the Tatarstan region.
- Specialty Foods: In addition to everyday items, Vprok carries unique Russian gourmet products like Russian vodkas, salts, and pickled vegetables.
Duration:
- 30 minutes to explore the variety of fresh produce and local goods.
Location:
- Vprok, Bauman Street, Kazan
6. Yarmarka
Yarmarka is a local supermarket chain that specializes in offering a wide selection of Russian and Tatar products at affordable prices. It’s a great spot for those looking to purchase traditional Tatar foods and local delicacies.
Why Visit:
- Local Tatar Goods: Yarmarka is known for its traditional Tatar foods, including samsa, tatar pastries, and meat products such as kazy (Tatar horsemeat sausage).
- Russian Pantry Staples: You’ll find a variety of Russian pantry staples, including canned fish, sauerkraut, and Russian bread.
- Affordable Prices: Yarmarka offers great value for money while still maintaining a solid selection of authentic Russian and Tatar ingredients.
Duration:
- 20 to 30 minutes for quick grocery shopping and picking up essentials.
Location:
- Yarmarka, Sukonnaya Sloboda, Kazan
7. Metro Cash & Carry
For those looking to buy in bulk or seek a wider variety of local and international products, Metro Cash & Carry offers a massive selection of Russian and Tatar products.
Why Visit:
- Tatar Foods: Metro has a strong selection of Tatar products, from fresh meats to dairy and Tatar baked goods.
- Bulk Buying: Ideal for shoppers looking to buy in bulk, whether it’s canned goods, sweets, or meats.
- Fresh Produce: Metro also offers local produce and seasonal items grown in Tatarstan.
Duration:
- 1 hour for shopping, especially for those looking to buy in bulk.
Location:
- Metro Cash & Carry, Kazan Outskirts
Conclusion
Kazan is a fantastic city for exploring traditional Tatar foods and Russian delicacies. Whether you’re shopping at premium supermarkets like Azbuka Vkusa for high-end products or visiting more affordable chains like Magnit and Yarmarka for Tatar staples, you’ll find a great selection of authentic goods. These supermarkets offer everything from fresh meats and local honey to sweets and canned vegetables, making it easy to experience the flavors of Tatarstan and Russia. Enjoy your culinary shopping journey in Kazan!
