Kazan, the vibrant capital of Tatarstan, is not only famous for its rich history and cuisine but also for its selection of traditional Russian drinks. Among the most iconic beverages is kvass, a fermented drink made from rye bread that has been a staple in Russian households for centuries. If you’re looking to sample kvass and other traditional Russian drinks in Kazan, there are several local spots where you can taste these refreshing and flavorful beverages. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet, tangy kvass, a glass of sbiten (a warm honey drink), or a cool cup of kompot, Kazan has plenty of places to satisfy your thirst for authentic Russian drinks.
Here are the best places in Kazan where you can try kvass and other traditional Russian drinks:
1. Central Market (Tsentral’nyi Rynok)
Kazan’s Central Market is one of the best places to try traditional Russian drinks, including homemade kvass. This bustling market, located in the heart of the city, is full of food stalls and vendors offering a wide variety of local products, including fermented drinks made from rye bread. The kvass sold here is often homemade and served fresh, with a tangy, slightly sweet taste.
In addition to kvass, you can also find sbiten, a traditional Russian drink made from honey, spices, and water, which is typically enjoyed hot during the winter months. The market is an excellent place to sample local specialties and interact with vendors who can tell you more about the traditional methods of making these drinks.
Insider Tip: Try the kvass made with bread and honey for a slightly different twist on the classic drink. It’s a great way to experience a unique regional version of kvass.
2. Chaihana
For a cozy setting to enjoy traditional Russian drinks, Chaihana is a fantastic choice. This Tatar and Russian fusion restaurant offers a selection of kvass and other Russian drinks in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Known for its traditional interior with wooden beams and rustic décor, Chaihana serves both cold kvass and hot sbiten during colder months.
Pair your drink with samsa (savory meat pies) or a warm bowl of shurpa (Tatar soup), and you’ll be experiencing authentic Tatar hospitality. The kvass at Chaihana is made using age-old recipes, ensuring that you get a refreshing, traditional taste.
Insider Tip: Ask for their spiced sbiten if you’re looking for a warming drink to complement your meal—it’s perfect for colder days.
3. Bahetle Restaurant
Bahetle Restaurant is a popular spot in Kazan for traditional Tatar cuisine, and it also offers a variety of Russian drinks, including kvass. The restaurant’s menu features Tatar dishes alongside classic Russian beverages, and the kvass served here is a homemade, refreshing version of the drink. Bahetle also offers a selection of kompot, a traditional fruit drink made from various berries, apples, and sometimes even dried fruits.
The ambiance of Bahetle is cozy and relaxed, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal along with traditional drinks. Whether you choose kvass or kompot, Bahetle provides a lovely dining experience with great drink options.
Insider Tip: Try the berry kompot, which is often served as a refreshing, slightly sweet beverage to balance out the rich flavors of Tatar cuisine.
4. Riviera Restaurant
For a more refined setting, Riviera Restaurant offers a selection of traditional Russian drinks alongside upscale dishes. While the restaurant is known for its sophisticated atmosphere and fine dining, they also serve kvass—a refreshing option to complement a hearty meal. Rivieria’s kvass is served in the traditional way, providing guests with a unique taste of authentic Russian beverages.
Riviera also offers a selection of Russian teas and fruit drinks that pair perfectly with their menu, giving you a taste of Russia’s culinary traditions in an elegant setting. The combination of fine dining and classic Russian drinks makes Riviera an excellent place to try kvass in style.
Insider Tip: Pair your kvass with one of their Russian-style appetizers, such as herring under a fur coat or olivier salad, for a true Russian feast.
5. Savinovo Market
For a more local, authentic experience, Savinovo Market is a great place to explore traditional Russian drinks. Known for its fresh produce, local foods, and artisanal products, this market also features vendors selling homemade kvass and other drinks. The kvass here is often made with rye bread and sold in large, rustic barrels, which gives it a more traditional, homemade taste.
In addition to kvass, you can also find sbiten and kompot at various stands, with flavors that vary depending on the season. The market is an excellent place to immerse yourself in local food culture and try some of the best traditional drinks in Kazan.
Insider Tip: If you’re visiting in the summer, look out for vendors offering cold kvass to help you cool down on a hot day. It’s a local favorite during the warmer months.
6. Chak-Chak Café
Located near the Kazan Kremlin, Chak-Chak Café offers an array of traditional Tatar and Russian drinks, including kvass. This café specializes in Tatar sweets and beverages, and kvass is one of the traditional drinks offered alongside their famous chak-chak (fried dough soaked in honey). The kvass here is brewed in-house, giving it an authentic, homemade taste.
Chak-Chak Café is a great place to relax and enjoy a glass of kvass with some sweet Tatar pastries, making it a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists.
Insider Tip: Pair your kvass with a slice of chak-chak for the ultimate Tatar treat, combining sweet and tangy flavors in every bite.
7. Kazanlarr
Kazanlarr is an upscale restaurant known for its refined take on traditional Tatar and Russian cuisine. Alongside its gourmet dishes, Kazanlarr offers a selection of kvass and other Russian drinks. The kvass here is often made with high-quality ingredients and served chilled, making it a refreshing option to enjoy with a flavorful meal.
Kazanlarr also serves a variety of other traditional Russian drinks, such as kompot and sbiten, allowing you to experience the diversity of Russian beverages in a sophisticated setting.
Insider Tip: The restaurant’s traditional kvass pairs beautifully with Tatar kebabs or plov, making it the perfect drink to complement a hearty meal.
8. Kremlin Restaurant
For a unique combination of Russian history and traditional drinks, Kremlin Restaurant is an excellent place to explore the flavors of Tatarstan. Situated near the Kazan Kremlin, the restaurant serves a variety of kvass options alongside traditional Tatar and Russian dishes. The kvass at Kremlin Restaurant is crafted to have a slightly sweet, tangy flavor, making it the perfect accompaniment to their hearty meals.
The elegant setting and attentive service provide a comfortable atmosphere to enjoy not only kvass but also other Russian classics like sbiten and kompot.
Insider Tip: Pair kvass with beshbarmak or shashlik for a true taste of Tatar hospitality.
9. Tatar Chaihana
Tatar Chaihana offers an authentic, traditional setting to enjoy kvass and other regional beverages. Known for its home-style cooking and comforting atmosphere, this chaihana serves freshly made kvass alongside hearty Tatar dishes. The kvass here is typically served with cheese-filled pastries or meat-filled dumplings, giving you the perfect combination of flavors to start your day.
The warm and inviting atmosphere makes Tatar Chaihana a great spot to experience traditional Russian beverages, and the staff are always happy to share the story behind each drink.
Insider Tip: Pair your kvass with a portion of tatar peremyach (fried meat pies) for a satisfying, authentic meal.
Conclusion
Kazan offers a wide variety of places where you can sample traditional Russian drinks like kvass, sbiten, and kompot. From bustling markets like Savinovo Market to cozy cafés like Chak-Chak Café and refined restaurants like Riviera Restaurant, there’s no shortage of spots to experience these refreshing, flavorful drinks. Whether you’re cooling down with a glass of chilled kvass or warming up with a hot cup of sbiten, Kazan’s local beverage scene is sure to provide a unique taste of Russian culinary culture.