Ryazan, a city rich in history, offers a variety of dining options that reflect both its cultural heritage and modern influences. Whether you’re craving traditional Russian dishes, seeking international cuisine, or looking for something more contemporary, Ryazan’s food scene has something for every taste. Here’s a guide to the best eateries in Ryazan, based on locals’ favorites and unique spots that offer an unforgettable dining experience.
1. Cafe Shokoladnitsa
Ideal for: Casual Dining, Coffee Lovers
Shokoladnitsa is a popular chain café in Russia, and the Ryazan branch is no exception. Known for its inviting atmosphere and excellent coffee, it’s a great place for breakfast, brunch, or a casual coffee break. Offering a range of hot beverages, from lattes to rich hot chocolate, paired with a selection of pastries and light snacks, it’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed café experience.
The menu features an assortment of sandwiches, cakes, and desserts, making it ideal for a quick yet satisfying meal. Locals often visit this café for a cozy spot to work or catch up with friends.
Recommended Dish:
- Russian honey cake (medovik) paired with a hot latte.
2. Vysota 117
Ideal for: Fine Dining, Special Occasions
For an upscale dining experience, Vysota 117 offers an elegant atmosphere and a sophisticated menu. Located on the top floor of one of the tallest buildings in the city, the restaurant provides panoramic views of Ryazan, which adds a special touch to the dining experience.
The menu combines Russian and European cuisines, offering a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich borscht, grilled meats, or delicate seafood, Vysota 117 provides an exquisite dining experience suitable for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal.
Recommended Dish:
- Grilled salmon with a side of roasted vegetables.
3. Dacha
Ideal for: Traditional Russian Cuisine, Cozy Atmosphere
Dacha is a beloved spot in Ryazan that offers authentic Russian cuisine in a warm, rustic setting. The restaurant is designed to feel like a traditional Russian country house, with wooden interiors and an inviting ambiance. It’s a great place to experience hearty, comfort food that is deeply rooted in Russian culinary traditions.
The menu is filled with traditional dishes like pelmeni (dumplings), borscht (beet soup), and shchi (cabbage soup), all prepared with care and attention to detail. The restaurant also serves homemade pickles and preserves, perfect for accompanying your meal.
Recommended Dish:
- Borscht served with sour cream and rye bread.
4. Ristorante Da Vinci
Ideal for: Italian Cuisine, Romantic Dinner
For a taste of Italy in Ryazan, Ristorante Da Vinci is a top choice. This Italian restaurant offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening out. The menu includes a wide selection of traditional Italian dishes, including pizza, pasta, and risotto, all made with fresh ingredients and authentic recipes.
The restaurant also has a great selection of wines, perfect for pairing with your meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Margherita pizza or a rich seafood risotto, Da Vinci delivers on both taste and ambiance.
Recommended Dish:
- Seafood risotto paired with a glass of white wine.
5. Pivnaya Bubnitsa
Ideal for: Beer Lovers, Casual Dining
For those who enjoy a good pint of beer with hearty food, Pivnaya Bubnitsa is the place to be. This popular pub in Ryazan serves a wide variety of craft beers, both local and imported, along with a menu filled with traditional pub food. The atmosphere is lively and relaxed, making it a great spot for friends or a casual meal.
The menu features a range of dishes that pair perfectly with beer, including grilled meats, sausages, and hearty snacks like potato wedges and fried chicken. It’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy some of the best beers in the city.
Recommended Dish:
- Grilled sausages with mustard and pickles.
6. Kolyba
Ideal for: Traditional Russian and Ukrainian Cuisine
For a unique experience that blends traditional Russian and Ukrainian flavors, Kolyba offers a great selection of hearty dishes in a cozy and rustic setting. The restaurant’s interior is designed to resemble a traditional country house, with wooden beams and folk art adorning the walls.
The menu includes rich, flavorful soups, dumplings, and roasted meats, all prepared with local ingredients. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to experience the best of traditional Eastern European cuisine in a relaxed environment.
Recommended Dish:
- Vareniki (Ukrainian dumplings) filled with potatoes or cherries, served with sour cream.
7. Gastrobar 19.5
Ideal for: Modern European Cuisine, Casual Dining
Gastrobar 19.5 is a trendy restaurant that offers a modern twist on European cuisine. Located in the city center, it’s popular among locals for its creative cocktails, innovative dishes, and laid-back atmosphere. The restaurant has a modern industrial design, making it a great place for both casual diners and those looking for a more refined experience.
The menu at Gastrobar 19.5 changes seasonally, ensuring that ingredients are fresh and dishes are always evolving. The restaurant focuses on contemporary European cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients. Expect unique flavor combinations and artistic presentations.
Recommended Dish:
- A seasonal tasting menu, offering a selection of the chef’s best dishes.
8. Pechka
Ideal for: Cozy Comfort Food, Local Favorites
Pechka is a cozy restaurant that offers a mix of Russian and Eastern European comfort food. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, with a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The restaurant is known for its delicious shashlik (grilled skewered meat) and other traditional grilled dishes.
Pechka also offers a variety of homemade soups, salads, and stews, making it the perfect spot for a comforting meal. If you’re in the mood for something hearty and satisfying, this is the place to be.
Recommended Dish:
- Shashlik with grilled vegetables and a side of garlic sauce.
9. Sushi House
Ideal for: Sushi Lovers, Modern Dining
For those craving Japanese cuisine, Sushi House offers a great selection of sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes. The restaurant has a clean, modern design and provides a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. The sushi is freshly prepared, with a variety of options to suit every taste, from classic rolls to more creative fusion dishes.
In addition to sushi, the menu includes other Japanese favorites like miso soup, tempura, and teriyaki dishes. It’s a great choice for a lighter, flavorful meal that still feels indulgent.
Recommended Dish:
- Salmon sushi rolls and miso soup.
10. Kavkazskaya Plennitsa
Ideal for: Caucasian Cuisine, Hearty Meals
Kavkazskaya Plennitsa offers a taste of the Caucasus in the heart of Ryazan. Known for its traditional Caucasian dishes, the restaurant provides a hearty menu filled with grilled meats, stews, and rich pilafs. The interior of the restaurant is designed to evoke the atmosphere of the Caucasus region, with warm colors and rustic furnishings.
The restaurant’s specialties include lamb, kebabs, and a variety of vegetable dishes, all made with bold spices and fresh ingredients. If you’re in the mood for flavorful, aromatic food, Kavkazskaya Plennitsa is the perfect place to enjoy a filling and satisfying meal.
Recommended Dish:
- Lamb kebabs served with a side of pilaf and grilled vegetables.
Conclusion
Ryazan’s food scene is diverse and full of character, offering everything from traditional Russian comfort food to international flavors. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café, a fine dining experience, or something in between, the city has an abundance of dining options that reflect its rich cultural influences. From hearty local dishes to modern European cuisine, Ryazan’s eateries promise a satisfying culinary adventure for every taste.
