Moscow comes alive in the spring with colorful cherry blossoms adorning the city’s streets and parks. For those looking to enjoy a delicious meal with a beautiful view of these delicate blooms, several restaurants offer an unforgettable dining experience with cherry blossom views. From cozy outdoor terraces to elegant indoor spaces, here’s a guide to the best restaurants in Moscow where you can enjoy stunning views of spring cherry blossoms while savoring exquisite food.
1. The Terrace at the Ritz-Carlton
Cuisine: European, Modern Russian
Location: Tverskaya Street, 3
Located at the top of the iconic Ritz-Carlton hotel, The Terrace offers some of the best views of Moscow. In spring, the area around the hotel is beautifully adorned with cherry blossoms and flowering trees, making it a perfect spot for a luxurious outdoor meal. The restaurant offers a mix of European and Russian dishes, with fresh seasonal ingredients complementing the vibrant surroundings.
What to Try
- Caviar: A Russian delicacy, served with blini and sour cream.
- Seafood Platter: Fresh, seasonal seafood served with flavorful sauces.
- Truffle Risotto: Creamy risotto paired with truffles for a decadent dish.
Why It’s Great
The combination of stunning views, elegant indoor and outdoor seating, and a seasonal menu makes The Terrace at the Ritz-Carlton a prime choice for anyone wanting to enjoy Moscow’s cherry blossoms with an upscale dining experience.
2. Gorky Park Café
Cuisine: Russian, European
Location: Gorky Park, Krymsky Val, 9
Situated in Gorky Park, one of the city’s most famous green spaces, Gorky Park Café offers charming views of the park and its seasonal cherry blossoms. The large outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy spring meals while surrounded by colorful blooms. The café serves a variety of Russian and European dishes, offering a relaxed vibe ideal for an afternoon meal.
What to Try
- Pelmeni: Traditional Russian dumplings filled with meat or mushrooms.
- Borscht: Classic Russian beet soup, rich in flavor and texture.
- Grilled Fish: Fresh fish served with herbed vegetables.
Why It’s Great
Gorky Park Café offers a laid-back atmosphere amidst the park’s cherry blossoms, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy casual dining in a picturesque setting. The combination of fresh air, nature, and food creates a lovely springtime dining experience.
3. Gusi-Lebedi
Cuisine: Russian, Mediterranean
Location: Leninsky Prospect, 2
Located along the picturesque Gorky Central Park, Gusi-Lebedi provides a charming, open-air terrace that overlooks beautiful cherry blossom trees in full bloom during the spring. Known for its blend of Russian and Mediterranean cuisines, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience with views of both the trees and the park’s stunning landscapes.
What to Try
- Shashlik: Grilled skewers of meat, a perfect outdoor meal.
- Baked Salmon: Fresh, tender salmon with herbs and lemon.
- Vegetable Sauté: A light and flavorful vegetable medley.
Why It’s Great
With outdoor seating that offers breathtaking views of the cherry blossoms, Gusi-Lebedi is a favorite for enjoying fresh seasonal dishes in a relaxed, nature-filled setting.
4. Cafe Pushkin
Cuisine: Russian, French
Location: Tverskoy Boulevard, 26/1
Café Pushkin, an iconic restaurant in Moscow, is known for its elegant design and exceptional cuisine. While it’s famous for its Russian-French fusion menu, it’s also a great place to experience spring cherry blossoms. The restaurant’s outdoor terrace, located in the heart of Moscow, offers delightful views of the city’s parks and tree-lined streets. In spring, these areas come alive with blossoming trees.
What to Try
- Beef Stroganoff: A rich, creamy classic dish.
- Pelmeni: Russian dumplings filled with meat.
- Tarte Tatin: A French dessert made with caramelized apples.
Why It’s Great
The charming terrace of Café Pushkin provides a peaceful escape in the heart of the city, where guests can enjoy luxurious cuisine while soaking in the beauty of the spring blossoms. Its historical atmosphere combined with outdoor seating makes it a perfect place for an elegant meal amidst nature.
5. Chaika
Cuisine: European, Russian
Location: VDNH, 119
Nestled in the VDNH (Vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva) complex, Chaika offers an upscale dining experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding gardens and seasonal cherry blossoms. The restaurant features a beautiful outdoor terrace where guests can enjoy contemporary European and Russian dishes while immersed in the natural beauty of spring.
What to Try
- Duck with Cherry Sauce: A rich, flavorful duck paired with a sweet-tart cherry sauce.
- Smoked Salmon Salad: Fresh salmon, greens, and a tangy dressing.
- Chocolate Soufflé: A rich, decadent chocolate dessert to end your meal.
Why It’s Great
With its stunning location and breathtaking cherry blossom views, Chaika is ideal for those who want to enjoy modern European cuisine surrounded by nature. The restaurant’s combination of elegance and scenic outdoor seating makes it a perfect springtime spot.
6. LavkaLavka
Cuisine: Russian, Farm-to-Table
Location: Kuznetsky Most, 6
For a truly unique experience, LavkaLavka offers farm-to-table dining using locally sourced, organic ingredients. The restaurant’s outdoor seating overlooks the surrounding area of cherry blossoms, offering a beautiful view while enjoying the fresh, seasonal flavors. The focus on sustainability and seasonal produce enhances the overall experience.
What to Try
- Beetroot Salad: A fresh, healthy salad made with roasted beets and herbs.
- Lamb Shank: Tender lamb, slow-cooked to perfection with herbs.
- Fermented Vegetables: A tangy, health-conscious side dish made with seasonal vegetables.
Why It’s Great
LavkaLavka is perfect for those looking to enjoy sustainable dining with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients. The cherry blossoms in the spring provide a beautiful backdrop to the restaurant’s authentic and wholesome dishes.
7. Vino e Cucina
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Location: Gorky Park, Krymsky Val, 9
Vino e Cucina in Gorky Park is a charming Mediterranean restaurant with a relaxed outdoor patio that offers scenic views of cherry blossom trees. Known for its focus on Italian cuisine, the restaurant is perfect for a leisurely lunch or dinner surrounded by nature.
What to Try
- Handmade Pasta: Freshly made tagliatelle with seasonal vegetables.
- Grilled Seafood: Shrimp and octopus grilled to perfection with fresh lemon.
- Tiramisu: A traditional, indulgent Italian dessert.
Why It’s Great
Vino e Cucina offers a delightful mix of Italian and Mediterranean dishes served on a beautiful outdoor terrace with views of the park and cherry blossoms. Its seasonal menu and relaxed vibe make it a perfect springtime destination for food lovers.
Conclusion
Moscow’s restaurants offer a beautiful mix of cherry blossoms, delicious cuisine, and outdoor seating, making these spots ideal for those wanting to indulge in nature’s beauty while enjoying top-notch food. Whether you’re seeking elegant dining with a view of spring blooms or a more casual outdoor experience, these restaurants will provide an unforgettable experience surrounded by Moscow’s cherry blossoms in full bloom.
