Saint Petersburg, known for its cultural richness and diverse dining scene, offers a variety of exciting restaurants where you can enjoy tapas and small plates. These dishes, often meant to be shared, are perfect for those who want to sample different flavors or enjoy a more relaxed, sociable dining experience. From Spanish tapas to Mediterranean small plates, these restaurants offer creative and flavorful options in beautiful settings.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top tapas and small plates restaurants in Saint Petersburg, where you can enjoy everything from seafood platters and charcuterie boards to innovative vegetable dishes, all served in a vibrant atmosphere that makes for a perfect dining experience.
1. Bar Dodo: Tapas with a Twist
Bar Dodo offers a modern and casual atmosphere with a focus on creative tapas-style small plates. The restaurant specializes in fusion cuisine, combining elements of Spanish tapas with Mediterranean and Eastern European flavors.
Why Visit?
- Fusion Flavors: Bar Dodo combines traditional tapas with unique, modern twists. Dishes such as grilled octopus with citrus, smoked mackerel croquettes, and lamb with mint sauce provide new takes on classic tapas.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The restaurant’s trendy decor and lively atmosphere make it a great place to visit with friends or for a casual date.
- Delicious Cocktails: Alongside their tapas menu, Bar Dodo serves expertly crafted cocktails that pair perfectly with the small plates.
Popular Dishes:
- Patatas Bravas: Fried potatoes served with spicy tomato sauce and a creamy aioli.
- Tuna Tartare: Fresh, high-quality tuna mixed with avocado, chili, and citrus for a refreshing, flavorful bite.
Tips for Visiting:
- Try the Wine Pairings: Bar Dodo offers a range of wine options that complement their tapas perfectly, so ask the staff for pairing recommendations.
- Arrive Early: The restaurant is popular, so be sure to get there early if you want to secure a table, especially on weekends.
2. La Bodega: Spanish Tapas in Saint Petersburg
For a truly authentic Spanish tapas experience, head to La Bodega, one of Saint Petersburg’s best Spanish restaurants. Offering a cozy and welcoming ambiance, it brings the vibrant flavors of Spain straight to the heart of the city.
Why Visit?
- Authentic Spanish Tapas: With a wide selection of classic Spanish tapas, La Bodega brings the warmth and flavor of Spain to Russia, serving dishes like jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, and seafood paella.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The rustic yet contemporary décor creates an authentic Spanish bodega feel, making it an excellent choice for a night out with friends or a casual evening.
- Great Wine List: The restaurant boasts a fantastic selection of Spanish wines, perfect for pairing with your tapas.
Popular Dishes:
- Jamon Iberico: A delicate, melt-in-your-mouth experience with authentic Spanish ham, served with olives and Manchego cheese.
- Piquillo Peppers Stuffed with Cod: Sweet peppers filled with rich salted cod and drizzled with a smoky paprika sauce.
Tips for Visiting:
- Pair with Sangria: Don’t miss out on the classic Spanish sangria, which perfectly complements the rich flavors of the tapas.
- Book in Advance: La Bodega is a popular spot for those craving authentic Spanish food, so it’s a good idea to book a table in advance, especially on weekends.
3. Tandoor: Indian Small Plates with a Fusion Twist
Tandoor offers a delightful experience for those craving Indian-inspired small plates with a modern twist. The restaurant is known for its flavorful and creative approach to traditional Indian cuisine, providing small, tapas-style dishes perfect for sharing.
Why Visit?
- Creative Indian Tapas: Tandoor’s menu includes Indian-inspired tapas, such as mini lamb kebabs, pani puri, and tandoori grilled vegetables, all made with the freshest ingredients and bold spices.
- Fusion Influences: While staying true to Indian flavors, Tandoor incorporates elements of Mediterranean and Western cuisine, making it a fun and unique place to try new combinations.
- Warm, Inviting Ambience: The décor of the restaurant creates a cozy, elegant atmosphere that enhances the enjoyment of the vibrant dishes.
Popular Dishes:
- Tandoori Grilled Paneer: A smoky, spicy grilled paneer served with mint chutney and seasoned rice.
- Chana Chaat: A tangy, spicy chickpea salad served with yogurt and tamarind chutney.
Tips for Visiting:
- Spice Levels: Make sure to mention your preferred spice level, as Indian food can range from mild to very spicy.
- Pair with Indian Beer: Tandoor offers a selection of Indian beers, such as Kingfisher and Taj Mahal, that pair wonderfully with the bold flavors.
4. Dynamo Grill Bar: International Tapas and Fusion Small Plates
At Dynamo Grill Bar, you can enjoy an eclectic mix of fusion tapas that combine the best of international flavors with Russian ingredients. This trendy spot is known for its grilling techniques and unique approach to small plates.
Why Visit?
- Fusion Small Plates: The menu features a variety of small plates that range from grilled meats and seafood to vegetarian tapas with Mediterranean and Asian influences.
- Perfect for Sharing: The dishes are designed for sharing, making it a great place for group dining or casual meals with friends.
- Stylish Vibe: With its sleek, contemporary interior, Dynamo Grill Bar offers a chic, modern atmosphere that’s ideal for both lunch and dinner.
Popular Dishes:
- Grilled Octopus: A tender, smoky octopus served with lemon aioli and a touch of chili for a bit of heat.
- Lamb Kofta: Spiced lamb koftas served with a tangy yogurt dip and fresh herbs.
Tips for Visiting:
- Get a Variety of Dishes: Order several small plates to share with your group, allowing you to explore the full range of flavors and textures.
- Pair with Fresh Cocktails: The restaurant offers an inventive cocktail list, so try pairing your tapas with one of their signature drinks.
5. Bering: A Unique Take on Russian Tapas
For those looking to experience a modern twist on traditional Russian flavors in small plate form, Bering offers an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant combines Russian and Mediterranean influences in a unique, tapas-style menu that celebrates the flavors of the region.
Why Visit?
- Russian Tapas: Bering offers dishes inspired by classic Russian cuisine, like herring under fur coat and Russian-style dumplings (pelmeni), but with a contemporary presentation and a smaller portion size perfect for sharing.
- Creative Cuisine: The menu combines local Russian ingredients with international culinary techniques, offering small plates with surprising and bold flavors.
- Trendy Setting: The modern design and atmosphere of the restaurant create a perfect environment for relaxed, trendy dining.
Popular Dishes:
- Pelmeni with Smoked Salmon: Traditional pelmeni dumplings filled with smoked salmon and served with a creamy sauce.
- Herring Under Fur Coat: A modern version of the classic Russian salad, made with layers of herring, potatoes, and beets, topped with a rich mayo dressing.
Tips for Visiting:
- Try the Chef’s Specials: Bering often features seasonal specials, so be sure to ask the staff about the chef’s recommendations for the day.
- Don’t Miss the Dessert: For a true taste of Russian sweetness, try their traditional Russian dessert paired with a glass of dessert wine.
6. Café Na Dache: A Fusion of Russian and European Tapas
Café Na Dache is a delightful spot offering a combination of Russian comfort food and European-inspired tapas. The restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and innovative dishes that combine the flavors of both regions in creative, small-plate formats.
Why Visit?
- Fusion Flavors: Café Na Dache blends the best of Russian and European tapas, with dishes like borscht with goat cheese, smoked salmon tartare, and cheese-filled blini.
- Casual Vibe: The cozy, rustic décor creates a relaxed setting that makes it easy to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends.
- Seasonal Ingredients: The menu changes based on what’s in season, ensuring that every visit offers something new and fresh.
Popular Dishes:
- Borscht with Goat Cheese: A rich, hearty borscht served with a creamy dollop of goat cheese, combining traditional Russian flavors with a European twist.
- Cheese-Filled Blini: Traditional Russian pancakes filled with creamy cheese and served with a sweet or savory topping.
Tips for Visiting:
- Order a Variety of Small Plates: Café Na Dache’s tapas-style menu is perfect for sharing, so order several dishes to sample the range of flavors.
- Pair with Craft Beer: The restaurant offers a great selection of local craft beers that complement the flavors of the small plates.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg offers a wonderful variety of tapas and small plates restaurants that embrace both traditional Russian flavors and international influences. Whether you’re craving classic Spanish tapas, modern interpretations of Russian dishes, or Mediterranean small plates, the city has something for every palate. From the chic ambiance of Bar Dodo to the innovative dishes at Bering and La Bodega, these top spots offer a perfect mix of flavor, style, and creativity, ideal for those who want to enjoy small bites in a relaxed yet trendy atmosphere.
