Moscow is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant dining scene, and, for many, its luxurious restaurants. However, there are plenty of affordable dining options in the city that offer delicious and authentic food without breaking the bank. Whether you’re craving traditional Russian dishes, international cuisine, or local street food, Moscow has something to satisfy every palate and budget. Here are the top 10 affordable restaurants in Moscow that offer a great culinary experience for budget travelers.
1. Teremok
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Teremok is a popular chain serving traditional Russian fast food at budget-friendly prices. With several locations around the city, it’s an easy and affordable option for travelers looking to try classic Russian dishes like blini (pancakes), borscht, and pelmeni (dumplings).
Key Dishes:
- Blini with various fillings (cheese, caviar, or jam)
- Pelmeni
- Borscht
- Kasha (buckwheat porridge)
Why Visit:
The simple yet delicious Russian comfort food served here is perfect for travelers who want to sample traditional dishes without spending much. The portions are generous, and the prices are incredibly reasonable.
Tip:
- Opt for a blini combo or pelmeni set to get a filling meal without going over budget.
2. Moo Moo
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Moo Moo is a well-known Russian chain offering a wide range of affordable Russian dishes in a casual, modern atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy a hearty meal, from soups to meats, at a great price.
Key Dishes:
- Borscht
- Shchi (cabbage soup)
- Grilled meats with mashed potatoes
- Kasha with stewed beef
Why Visit:
The restaurant has a self-service model that allows you to pick from a wide variety of classic Russian dishes at an affordable price. The quality is great, and the portions are generous.
Tip:
- Moo Moo offers various combo meals that combine main dishes, soups, and drinks, making it a great value option.
3. Stolle
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Stolle is a famous Russian pie shop chain that offers a variety of savory and sweet pies filled with everything from cabbage and meat to mushrooms and potatoes. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite without spending much.
Key Dishes:
- Savory pies with meat, cabbage, or mushrooms
- Sweet pies with berries or apples
- Russian soups (like borscht)
Why Visit:
Stolle’s pies are a great example of traditional Russian home cooking, offering a filling, affordable meal that’s perfect for travelers on the go.
Tip:
- Stolle’s pies are perfect for a quick snack or lunch. Try a savory pie with a soup for a complete meal that won’t cost much.
4. Dodo Pizza
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Dodo Pizza is a local pizza chain that offers high-quality pizzas at very reasonable prices. Known for its fresh ingredients and quick service, Dodo Pizza is a great budget option for those craving something familiar while traveling.
Key Dishes:
- Classic margherita pizza
- Pepperoni pizza
- Salads and side dishes
Why Visit:
Though it’s a pizza chain, Dodo Pizza offers affordable, tasty pizzas made with fresh ingredients. It’s a great spot for budget-conscious travelers who want to indulge in a comfort food meal.
Tip:
- Look for special offers and promotions (such as “buy one, get one free”), which make this place even more affordable.
5. Varenichnaya №1
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Varenichnaya №1 specializes in traditional Russian dumplings and other comfort food. The warm and rustic ambiance offers the perfect setting for enjoying pelmeni and vareniki at a reasonable price.
Key Dishes:
- Pelmeni (dumplings)
- Vareniki (dumplings with fillings like potatoes, mushrooms, or cherries)
- Borscht
Why Visit:
This is the ideal place to try a variety of dumplings, one of Russia’s most beloved dishes. The portions are generous, and the prices are very affordable for the quality and quantity of food you get.
Tip:
- Don’t miss the specialty dumplings, like vareniki with cherries, for a true taste of Russian comfort food.
6. Blini Club
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
For those who want to experience blini (Russian pancakes) in all their forms, Blini Club is a fantastic and affordable choice. Located in central Moscow, it specializes in both savory and sweet blini, making it a great stop for any time of day.
Key Dishes:
- Blini with caviar or smoked salmon
- Sweet blini with jam, condensed milk, or berries
- Salads and soups
Why Visit:
Blini are a cornerstone of Russian cuisine, and at Blini Club, you’ll get to try them in a variety of delicious combinations, all at an affordable price.
Tip:
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try the blini with caviar for a traditional Russian experience that won’t break the bank.
7. Bliny & Pirogi
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Another fantastic place for blini and pirozhki (Russian stuffed pastries), Bliny & Pirogi serves a variety of affordable and filling dishes that represent the heart of Russian home cooking.
Key Dishes:
- Blini with various fillings (cheese, mushrooms, or meat)
- Pirozhki (stuffed pastries)
- Borscht
Why Visit:
This cozy spot offers a great variety of traditional Russian dishes at budget-friendly prices, making it perfect for travelers who want a quick, hearty meal.
Tip:
- The pirozhki are an excellent snack or side dish, and the blini combos offer both savory and sweet options for all tastes.
8. Kukhnya
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Kukhnya offers an affordable homestyle dining experience with a focus on fresh ingredients and Russian comfort food. The relaxed ambiance and extensive menu make it a great option for budget travelers looking to enjoy delicious, traditional meals.
Key Dishes:
- Borscht
- Shchi (cabbage soup)
- Pelmeni
- Russian salads
Why Visit:
Kukhnya’s focus on traditional Russian recipes made with fresh ingredients makes it a fantastic option for those seeking an affordable yet authentic Russian meal.
Tip:
- Kukhnya also offers great value-for-money deals, with options for set meals that offer a full experience at a reasonable price.
9. Gruzinskaya Cuisine
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
For a taste of Georgian cuisine, Gruzinskaya Cuisine offers a welcoming and affordable setting where you can sample flavorful Georgian dishes like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), shashlik, and khinkali (dumplings).
Key Dishes:
- Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread)
- Khinkali (dumplings with various fillings)
- Shashlik (grilled meat skewers)
Why Visit:
If you’re looking for something a little different but still traditional and affordable, this spot offers an incredible variety of Georgian dishes that are both filling and flavorful.
Tip:
- Try the khinkali and khachapuri for an authentic Georgian meal that is both hearty and inexpensive.
10. Shashlyk-Mashlyk
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Shashlyk-Mashlyk is the place to go for shashlik (grilled meat skewers) and other barbecue-style dishes. This casual eatery offers delicious grilled meats, freshly prepared and served with a variety of sauces and side dishes, all at very reasonable prices.
Key Dishes:
- Shashlik (grilled lamb, chicken, or beef)
- Pilaf
- Vegetable skewers
- Russian salads
Why Visit:
If you’re craving some flavorful grilled meat in a casual, budget-friendly setting, Shashlyk-Mashlyk is a perfect option. The skewers are perfectly seasoned and grilled, offering an authentic Russian BBQ experience.
Tip:
- Order a few grilled meats with pilaf for a satisfying, flavorful, and affordable meal.
Conclusion
Moscow offers a variety of affordable dining options where you can enjoy authentic Russian dishes without spending too much. From traditional soups and dumplings to blini and grilled meats, these top 10 budget-friendly restaurants provide a taste of Russia’s culinary heritage while being kind to your wallet. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a hearty meal, or a relaxed dining experience, these eateries offer the best of Russian cuisine at affordable prices.
