Saint Petersburg, with its proximity to the Baltic Sea and numerous rivers, offers a bounty of fresh seafood that finds its way into the city’s markets and restaurants. From local fish markets offering the freshest catches to upscale restaurants serving innovative seafood dishes, Saint Petersburg is a paradise for seafood lovers. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a fine dining experience or seek out the best places to shop for the freshest fish, this guide will take you through the best seafood markets and restaurants in Saint Petersburg.
1. Leningradsky Fish Market
A Historic Market with Fresh Seafood
Leningradsky Fish Market is one of the oldest and most popular seafood markets in Saint Petersburg. Located near Ligovsky Prospect, this bustling market is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Offering everything from fresh fish to smoked salmon and caviar, Leningradsky Market is a great place to explore the diversity of the city’s seafood offerings.
- What to Expect: The market features stalls selling a wide range of fresh seafood from the Baltic Sea, including salmon, sturgeon, herring, mussels, crabs, and shrimp. You can also find smoked fish, pickled seafood, and caviar—perfect for those who want to bring home a local delicacy.
- Why Visit: Leningradsky Fish Market is not just a place to buy seafood; it’s an experience in itself. The market is often lively and offers a glimpse into the city’s culinary traditions. Visitors can chat with the vendors and even buy ready-to-eat seafood dishes, such as seafood salads and sushi.
Insider Tip: For an authentic Saint Petersburg experience, try the local smoked fish and pickled herring—two of the city’s beloved seafood snacks.
2. Rybnoye Mesto (Fish Place)
A Seafood Market and Restaurant in One
Rybnoye Mesto is both a seafood market and a restaurant, allowing you to buy fresh fish and enjoy delicious seafood dishes all in one location. This unique spot offers an impressive selection of fresh catches and is especially popular among visitors looking to enjoy a high-quality meal with locally sourced seafood.
- What to Expect: The market section of Rybnoye Mesto offers a variety of fresh fish and shellfish, including oysters, crab, octopus, mussels, and sturgeon. You can pick your choice of seafood and have it prepared on-site at the restaurant. The restaurant’s menu includes an extensive range of dishes, from sashimi to grilled fish and seafood platters.
- Why Visit: This is a fantastic place for seafood lovers who want the option to either buy fresh fish to take home or enjoy it freshly prepared. The market’s wide selection and the restaurant’s comfortable atmosphere make it a convenient and delicious stop.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss out on their seafood platter, which gives you a chance to taste a variety of fresh catches all in one meal.
3. Zhirolov (The Fish Trapper)
A Premium Seafood Experience
Located on Konyushennaya Square, Zhirolov is a premium seafood restaurant known for its high-end offerings, exquisite ambiance, and a wide range of fresh seafood dishes. While Zhirolov is more of a fine-dining experience than a market, its dedication to sourcing the best local and international seafood makes it a must-visit for seafood aficionados.
- Signature Dishes:
- Sturgeon and Caviar: A luxurious dish featuring tender sturgeon paired with the finest caviar, perfect for those looking for an authentic Russian seafood experience.
- Seafood Borscht: A unique twist on the classic Russian soup, made with fish stock and filled with a variety of seafood like shrimp and sturgeon.
- Why Visit: Zhirolov is known for its elegant interior and professional service, creating an atmosphere that complements its top-quality seafood offerings. The restaurant’s menu is filled with both traditional Russian seafood dishes and innovative presentations, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Insider Tip: Make sure to ask about their wine pairing options, which complement their seafood dishes beautifully.
4. Fish Fabrique
A Trendy Spot for Seafood Lovers
Fish Fabrique is a popular seafood restaurant in Saint Petersburg that combines modern design with high-quality seafood. Located on Nevsky Prospekt, this chic spot offers both traditional seafood dishes and innovative, contemporary takes on Russian and European cuisine. Fish Fabrique is also known for its dedication to sustainable and locally sourced ingredients.
- Signature Dishes:
- Baked Salmon with Vegetables: A simple yet satisfying dish featuring fresh salmon, paired with roasted vegetables and a delicate sauce.
- Seafood Risotto: Creamy risotto cooked with a variety of seafood, including shrimp, mussels, and scallops.
- Why Visit: Fish Fabrique’s fusion of classic and modern seafood offerings makes it a unique dining destination in Saint Petersburg. The stylish interior and trendy atmosphere appeal to both locals and tourists.
Insider Tip: If you’re in the mood for something different, try the smoked fish assortment, which offers a great variety of Russian smoked delicacies.
5. Dom Ru (House of Fish)
Traditional Seafood with a Rustic Charm
For a more rustic yet authentic experience, Dom Ru offers traditional Russian seafood in a cozy setting. Located in a historic part of the city, this restaurant prides itself on offering classic Russian fish dishes with fresh, local fish sourced from the Baltic Sea and surrounding rivers.
- Signature Dishes:
- Sturgeon with Beets: A traditional Russian fish dish, combining sturgeon with the earthy flavors of beets and fresh herbs.
- Fish Soup (Ukha): A rich, flavorful fish broth made with fresh fish, herbs, and vegetables, perfect for a warming meal.
- Why Visit: Dom Ru’s focus on traditional Russian recipes and simple yet flavorful dishes gives you an authentic taste of Russia’s seafood heritage. The cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect place for a relaxed meal with family or friends.
Insider Tip: Try the fish pastries, a unique take on classic Russian pies, stuffed with fresh salmon or sturgeon.
6. Sirenetta
Mediterranean Flavors Meet Fresh Seafood
Sirenetta is a modern seafood restaurant in Saint Petersburg offering a Mediterranean-inspired seafood menu. Located along the Neva River, this stylish spot serves both fresh, traditional Russian seafood and Mediterranean dishes with a fresh, light twist. The combination of seasonal seafood and an international approach makes Sirenetta a popular choice for those looking for a unique dining experience.
- Signature Dishes:
- Grilled Octopus with Garlic and Olive Oil: A Mediterranean-inspired dish, with grilled octopus, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Seafood Paella: A classic Spanish dish made with a variety of fresh seafood, saffron, and rice.
- Why Visit: Sirenetta’s creative fusion of Mediterranean and Russian seafood offers something for every seafood lover. The elegant setting and creative presentation make it a great spot for a special meal.
Insider Tip: Try their seafood risotto for a flavorful and indulgent dish that showcases the best of Mediterranean flavors with a Russian twist.
Conclusion: Saint Petersburg’s Seafood Scene – A Feast for the Senses
Saint Petersburg is a paradise for seafood lovers, with a variety of markets and restaurants offering everything from fresh catches of the day to innovative seafood dishes. Whether you’re strolling through the bustling Leningradsky Fish Market, enjoying a fine-dining experience at Zhirolov, or trying a fusion dish at Sirenetta, the city’s seafood scene is diverse and constantly evolving.
The local markets offer the freshest ingredients for home cooks and those looking to create their own seafood dishes, while the restaurants provide a range of dining experiences that reflect the city’s rich maritime heritage. Whether you’re after classic Russian fish soups, delicate sushi rolls, or Mediterranean-inspired seafood, Saint Petersburg’s seafood scene has something for every palate.
