Moscow, known for its rich history and diverse culture, has also become a growing hub for vegetarian and vegan cuisine in recent years. If you’re exploring Red Square and are looking for plant-based dining options, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants and cafes offering both traditional and modern vegetarian and vegan dishes. Here’s a guide to some of the best spots near Red Square for those who prefer a vegetarian or vegan diet.
1. Jagannath
Jagannath is one of the most popular vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Moscow, known for its delicious Indian-inspired dishes. It is located just a short walk from Red Square, making it a convenient choice for lunch or dinner.
What to Expect:
- Vegan-Friendly Menu: The menu offers a variety of plant-based options, including flavorful curries, vegan wraps, lentil dishes, and rice bowls.
- Indian-Inspired Dishes: The food is inspired by traditional Indian and Asian flavors, with many dishes featuring lentils, tofu, and vegetables.
- Smoothies and Fresh Juices: Jagannath also offers a selection of fresh juices, smoothies, and detox drinks for a healthy and refreshing meal.
Why Visit:
- Jagannath is a great option for those looking for nutritious, flavorful, and affordable vegan and vegetarian meals in the heart of Moscow. It offers a relaxed ambiance with health-conscious options.
2. Vegan Krasa
For a completely vegan experience, Vegan Krasa is an excellent choice. Located a short distance from Red Square, this charming vegan cafe offers a wide selection of plant-based meals that are both tasty and creative.
What to Expect:
- Vegan Menu: The menu features a variety of dishes, from salads and grilled vegetable bowls to vegan burgers and raw food options.
- Desserts: Vegan Krasa also offers a range of vegan desserts, including cheesecakes, cakes, and cookies, all made without dairy or eggs.
- Cozy Atmosphere: With its minimalist decor and warm atmosphere, Vegan Krasa provides a welcoming space for anyone wanting to enjoy plant-based food in Moscow.
Why Visit:
- If you’re seeking a vegan-only restaurant offering delicious plant-based meals, Vegan Krasa is an excellent spot for a satisfying meal close to Red Square. Their dessert selection is especially popular among locals and tourists alike.
3. Café Pushkin
While not exclusively vegan or vegetarian, Café Pushkin is a famous and elegant Moscow restaurant located near Red Square that offers a number of vegetarian options. It’s a great place to experience traditional Russian cuisine with a vegetarian twist.
What to Expect:
- Vegetarian Dishes: Although the restaurant is known for its traditional Russian fare, it offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, including vegetable borscht, stuffed mushrooms, and salads.
- Russian Specialties: You can try traditional Russian dishes like mushroom julienne (without meat), borscht (with plant-based alternatives), and pickled vegetables.
- Elegant Setting: Café Pushkin’s décor mirrors a Russian aristocratic dining experience, with antique furnishings and an ambiance that transports you to another era.
Why Visit:
- Café Pushkin is an iconic spot for a special dining experience in Moscow. If you’re looking to explore Russian cuisine with vegetarian and vegan options, this is a perfect place for a fancy meal near Red Square.
4. Fresh
For a healthy, vibrant meal that’s both vegetarian and vegan-friendly, Fresh is a top choice. Located near Tverskaya Street, just a short distance from Red Square, Fresh offers a wide variety of wholesome, plant-based dishes.
What to Expect:
- Plant-Based Menu: Fresh’s menu features salads, smoothie bowls, vegan burgers, and wraps. They also have a selection of raw food options and dishes like quinoa bowls and vegan soups.
- Juices and Smoothies: Fresh is known for its wide variety of fresh juices and smoothies, perfect for a light and energizing meal.
- Stylish Interior: The café has a modern, bright interior, making it a comfortable and casual spot to enjoy a healthy, plant-based meal.
Why Visit:
- Fresh offers a healthy and delicious vegan experience with fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s a perfect option for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, nutritious meal while exploring the area around Red Square.
5. Mum’s Diner
Mum’s Diner is another vegan-friendly restaurant near Red Square that focuses on providing hearty, satisfying meals with a local touch. Though it caters to all types of dietary preferences, the menu offers plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.
What to Expect:
- Vegan Breakfast Options: Mum’s Diner offers delicious vegan pancakes, toasts, and vegan pastries.
- Vegan Burgers and Wraps: Their vegan burger options, such as the chickpea burger and veggie wrap, are perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.
- Comfort Food: The diner also serves vegan versions of popular comfort foods like mac and cheese, baked potatoes, and veggie stews.
Why Visit:
- If you’re craving comfort food with a vegan twist, Mum’s Diner is an excellent choice. The cozy, retro-style diner offers a variety of plant-based options that satisfy both vegan and vegetarian tastes.
6. LavkaLavka
LavkaLavka is a farm-to-table restaurant located near Red Square that focuses on organic, locally sourced ingredients, making it a great option for both vegetarians and vegans.
What to Expect:
- Seasonal Menus: The menu at LavkaLavka changes seasonally and features a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Expect vegetable stews, salads, and grain bowls made with fresh produce.
- Local and Organic: As part of its commitment to sustainability, LavkaLavka works closely with local farms and producers to create a menu that supports seasonal, organic eating.
- Gourmet Experience: LavkaLavka offers a more refined dining experience compared to traditional street food, with beautifully presented dishes.
Why Visit:
- For those looking for a more sophisticated plant-based dining experience, LavkaLavka offers high-quality, seasonal dishes made with fresh, organic ingredients. It’s a great option for those who want to enjoy a gourmet meal while staying true to their dietary preferences.
7. Kuvshin
Located near Kitai-Gorod, Kuvshin is a cozy and modern café that offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes inspired by Russian cuisine.
What to Expect:
- Vegan Borscht: Enjoy a vegan-friendly version of the classic Russian borscht made with beets and served with sour cream (vegan alternative).
- Salads and Soups: Kuvshin offers a range of fresh salads, hearty soups, and vegan stews made with seasonal vegetables and grains.
- Russian Vegan Desserts: Don’t forget to try their vegan desserts, such as honey cake and fruit compotes.
Why Visit:
- Kuvshin is perfect for those looking to experience traditional Russian flavors with a plant-based twist. It’s a great place to enjoy a warm, comforting meal while exploring Moscow.
Conclusion
Moscow has become increasingly accommodating to those with vegetarian and vegan diets, especially near Red Square. Whether you’re craving a quick snack like pirozhki or a more substantial meal at a farm-to-table restaurant, you’ll find plenty of options that cater to plant-based eating. From the cozy vibes of Mum’s Diner to the elegant atmosphere of LavkaLavka, these dining options offer a delightful way to experience the best of Moscow’s vibrant vegan and vegetarian food scene. Enjoy exploring Red Square and savoring the variety of plant-based dishes Moscow has to offer!
