Moscow is filled with charming and cozy cafés where you can unwind and enjoy a warm cup of tea, whether you’re taking a break from sightseeing or simply want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. From historic spots to trendy tea houses, here are some of the best cafés in Moscow that offer a warm, inviting atmosphere and a perfect cup of tea.
1. Café Pushkin
Why It’s Cozy:
Café Pushkin is one of Moscow’s most iconic and elegant cafés, offering a luxurious historical setting that makes it feel like you’ve stepped into the past. Its elegant interiors, complete with antique furniture and chandeliers, create a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere that invites visitors to relax and enjoy their tea.
What to Expect:
- Classic Russian tea service with a wide selection of teas.
- Elegant tea sets served with traditional Russian sweets and pastries.
- A beautiful, warm interior with an atmosphere that feels like an aristocratic dining room.
- A menu of classic Russian dishes if you wish to enjoy a meal alongside your tea.
Location: Tverskoy Boulevard, 26a, Moscow
2. Tea-House “Chaihona No 1”
Why It’s Cozy:
If you’re looking for a cozy and authentic tea house that specializes in Eastern teas, Chaihona No 1 offers a relaxing ambiance with a stylish touch. Inspired by Central Asian tea traditions, it’s an ideal spot for anyone looking to experience rich flavors and relaxed vibes.
What to Expect:
- A variety of loose leaf teas from Central Asia, India, and China.
- Charming décor that combines rustic, cozy furniture with vibrant colors and prints.
- A wide tea selection with options like green tea, oolong, and black tea served in traditional teapots.
- The menu also features traditional Central Asian dishes to complement your tea.
Location: Various locations, including Tverskaya Street and Novy Arbat
3. The Coffee Bean
Why It’s Cozy:
With its modern yet welcoming atmosphere, The Coffee Bean is the perfect café to relax and enjoy a cup of tea in a cozy, casual setting. The café’s interiors are bright, yet the warm lighting and comfortable seating make it a perfect place to unwind. It’s a great spot for tea lovers who also enjoy a good cup of coffee in a cozy, intimate environment.
What to Expect:
- A wide variety of teas, including black, green, and herbal teas.
- Relaxing music and a modern, minimalist interior that creates a soothing atmosphere.
- Free Wi-Fi for those who want to relax and work while sipping their tea.
- Freshly made pastries and light snacks to complement your tea.
Location: Multiple locations around Moscow, including near Gorky Park and Arbat
4. Varenichnaya No. 1
Why It’s Cozy:
This is a charming café that embraces the traditional Russian culture and offers a homely feel with its retro-inspired décor. The atmosphere is warm, with lots of quirky details and vintage furniture that make it the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy a hot cup of tea.
What to Expect:
- A variety of Russian-style teas, often served with traditional Russian cakes and sweets.
- Cozy, vintage-style interiors that feel like a grandmother’s cozy living room.
- Hearty Russian comfort food, including dumplings, pirozhki, and blini, making it a great place to spend an entire afternoon.
Location: 5 locations around Moscow, including Stoleshnikov Lane and Tverskoy Boulevard
5. U Gleba Café
Why It’s Cozy:
Located in the heart of Moscow, U Gleba Café is a hidden gem that offers a relaxed and rustic ambiance. The quaint, homely setting makes it ideal for sipping tea and enjoying a quiet moment. It’s an intimate space, perfect for those who enjoy a peaceful environment with minimal distractions.
What to Expect:
- A selection of handpicked teas, including classic black, herbal, and green teas.
- A charming, rustic interior with wooden furniture and candle-lit tables that create a cozy vibe.
- Delicious homemade pastries, ideal for pairing with your tea, and a small but delightful menu of comforting meals.
Location: Pokrovka St. 28, Moscow
6. Café Kitay
Why It’s Cozy:
Café Kitay brings a taste of Chinese tea culture to Moscow in a relaxed, cozy environment. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, this café offers a variety of Chinese teas served with a warm and inviting atmosphere.
What to Expect:
- A large selection of Chinese teas, such as oolong, pu-erh, and green tea.
- Traditional Chinese tea ceremonies, where tea is brewed in front of you, creating a truly immersive experience.
- A calming, minimalist décor with wooden tables and plenty of natural light, perfect for enjoying your tea in peace.
- Light Chinese-inspired snacks and sweets to complement your tea.
Location: 16 Zhitnaya Street, Moscow
7. Teabar
Why It’s Cozy:
For a truly relaxing tea experience, Teabar offers a unique and modern setting with an emphasis on high-quality teas. Known for its vast selection and peaceful environment, it’s a great spot to try something new or indulge in your favorite tea blends while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
What to Expect:
- A huge selection of teas, including white, green, and herbal teas, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Modern minimalist design, with comfortable seating and a clean, bright environment that is perfect for relaxation.
- Specialty blended teas and housemade infusions, ideal for exploring different flavors.
Location: Multiple locations, including Zhukovskogo Street and Tverskaya
8. Tea-Room “Fräulein”
Why It’s Cozy:
Tea-Room “Fräulein” is an intimate tea house that specializes in creating a cozy atmosphere where you can sit back and relax with your favorite cup of tea. This charming little spot combines the comfort of a vintage tea room with an emphasis on high-quality tea and lovely homemade cakes.
What to Expect:
- A selection of classic teas, herbal blends, and tea specials that cater to all tastes.
- A cozy, vintage-inspired interior, complete with floral wallpapers and soft lighting, creating an inviting environment.
- Homemade cakes, scones, and other treats that perfectly accompany a steaming cup of tea.
Location: Petrovka Street 21, Moscow
Conclusion: A Cozy Tea Experience in Moscow
Moscow offers a wide range of cozy cafés and tea rooms, each with its own unique charm and atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Russian tea experience, a taste of Chinese tea culture, or simply a peaceful spot to enjoy your tea and a treat, there’s something for everyone.
- Café Pushkin and Varenichnaya No. 1 are perfect for those who enjoy an elegant, cozy environment with traditional Russian touches.
- If you’re in the mood for something more modern and relaxed, Teabar and Café Kitay provide unique tea experiences.
- For those who prefer a vintage feel, U Gleba Café and Tea-Room “Fräulein” offer rustic and charming atmospheres ideal for unwinding.
Wherever you choose to go, each of these cozy spots will provide you with the perfect setting to relax, sip your tea, and enjoy a moment of peace in Moscow.
