Moscow is home to a vibrant food scene, and when it comes to breakfast, the city offers a wide variety of delicious options. Two classic dishes that you can’t miss when in Moscow are pancakes and syrniki—traditional Russian foods that are perfect for a morning meal. Syrniki are fluffy cheese pancakes, while blini (Russian pancakes) are typically served with toppings like jam, sour cream, or caviar. Here are some of the best cafés in Moscow where you can enjoy these dishes:
1. Blini and Pancakes at Café Pushkin
Why It’s Great:
Café Pushkin is an iconic Moscow restaurant, known for its beautiful interior, reminiscent of a grand 19th-century aristocratic home. Not only does it offer a luxurious and historical atmosphere, but it’s also one of the best places to try traditional Russian pancakes (blini).
What to Try:
- Blini with sour cream, jam, or caviar: The café offers a wide selection of traditional pancakes served with authentic Russian toppings.
- Syrniki: The syrniki here are rich and soft, served with a variety of sweet and savory toppings.
Address:
Tverskoy Boulevard, 26a, Moscow, Russia
2. Mari Vanna
Why It’s Great:
Mari Vanna is a cozy and inviting café that exudes an authentic Russian home atmosphere. The décor is charmingly vintage, and the menu features many classic Russian dishes, including syrniki and pancakes.
What to Try:
- Syrniki with jam, honey, or condensed milk—perfectly fried with a golden exterior and a soft interior.
- Blini: These pancakes are served with a variety of fillings such as smoked salmon, caviar, or traditional toppings.
Address:
Spasopeskovskaya Ulitsa, 10/2, Moscow, Russia
3. Dr. Zhivago
Why It’s Great:
Located in the heart of Moscow, near the Kremlin, Dr. Zhivago offers a modern take on classic Russian dishes in an elegant setting. It’s a great spot for those looking for a contemporary atmosphere with a rich historical twist.
What to Try:
- Syrniki with sour cream: Light and fluffy, these cheese pancakes are made from farmer’s cheese and are served with a dollop of rich, creamy sour cream.
- Blini with various fillings like caviar, smoked salmon, or sweet treats like chocolate and berries.
Address:
Mokhovaya St., 15/1, Moscow, Russia
4. The White Rabbit
Why It’s Great:
For an upscale, Michelin-recognized breakfast, head to The White Rabbit, known for its innovative Russian cuisine. While it’s famous for its modern approach to Russian gastronomy, you’ll still find a variety of classic breakfast options here.
What to Try:
- Syrniki: Light, fluffy, and served with fresh fruit and sour cream.
- Pancakes: A Russian breakfast classic, served with a variety of sweet and savory options.
Address:
Smolenskaya Square, 3, Moscow, Russia
5. Koffein
Why It’s Great:
Koffein is a stylish and cozy café known for its specialty coffee and an extensive breakfast menu that features a fusion of Russian and European dishes. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed spot to start their day.
What to Try:
- Syrniki with berries and honey: These are lightly fried and deliciously served with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey.
- Pancakes (blini): You can try them with various toppings such as berries, chocolate, or sour cream.
Address:
Tverskaya St., 8, Moscow, Russia
6. Tsvetnoy Central Market
Why It’s Great:
Tsvetnoy Central Market is a trendy spot in Moscow, featuring a variety of food stalls and cafés offering gourmet versions of traditional Russian dishes. It’s an excellent place to sample syrniki and blini while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere.
What to Try:
- Syrniki with fresh fruits or sour cream.
- Pancakes with traditional fillings like sour cream, jam, or even caviar.
Address:
Tsvetnoy Boulevard, 15, Moscow, Russia
7. Varenichnaya No. 1
Why It’s Great:
This cozy and quaint café specializes in Russian dumplings, but it also serves a fantastic selection of syrniki and blini for breakfast. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for those who want to try traditional Russian comfort food.
What to Try:
- Syrniki with sweet fillings like apples, raisins, or jam.
- Blini with cottage cheese or smoked salmon for a more savory option.
Address:
Nikolskaya St., 1/2, Moscow, Russia
8. Pancake Café (Bliny i Kompaniya)
Why It’s Great:
For a more casual and specialized spot, Bliny i Kompaniya (Pancake Café) focuses on a wide variety of blini and pancakes, offering both traditional and creative fillings. It’s an excellent choice if you’re specifically craving Russian pancakes.
What to Try:
- Blini with sweet fillings like condensed milk and chocolate.
- Syrniki with a variety of delicious toppings like honey and jam.
Address:
Suvorovskaya St., 6, Moscow, Russia
9. Cafe de la Paix
Why It’s Great:
A French-style café with a Russian twist, Cafe de la Paix offers a relaxing ambiance and a great selection of breakfast dishes, including syrniki and blini. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a more refined, yet cozy environment.
What to Try:
- Syrniki with seasonal fruits: These come perfectly paired with fresh, seasonal berries and cream.
- Blini with various fillings such as caviar, smoked fish, or cheese.
Address:
Tverskaya St., 12, Moscow, Russia
Conclusion: A Perfect Start to Your Day in Moscow
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious dining experience or a more casual café, Moscow has a wide range of options to enjoy a traditional Russian breakfast. Pancakes (blini) and syrniki are classic dishes that showcase the richness of Russian cuisine, and the cafés listed above are some of the best spots in the city to enjoy these morning treats. From Café Pushkin’s elegant atmosphere to Bliny i Kompaniya’s pancake-focused menu, you’re sure to find a place that suits your taste and offers a memorable breakfast experience.
