Moscow’s culinary scene is full of hidden gems and local favorites, places where the city’s top chefs go when they’re not in the kitchen themselves. These insider spots offer everything from authentic Russian dishes to international flavors, with a focus on fresh ingredients, innovative techniques, and laid-back atmospheres. If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Moscow, where the chefs themselves go for inspiration, here are some must-visit restaurants.
1. Café Pushkin
Cuisine: Russian, French
Location: Tverskoy Boulevard, 26/1
Café Pushkin is an iconic restaurant beloved by chefs and food lovers alike. Known for its elegant 19th-century aristocratic décor, the restaurant serves a classic combination of Russian and French cuisine with a contemporary twist. It’s the kind of place where Moscow’s chefs go to enjoy traditional Russian comfort food in a refined setting.
What to Try
- Beef Stroganoff: Tender beef in a rich creamy sauce.
- Pelmeni: Russian dumplings filled with meat or mushrooms.
- Borscht: A hearty, tangy beetroot soup served with sour cream.
Why It’s Great
Café Pushkin is renowned not only for its refined atmosphere and delicious food but also for its ability to maintain authentic Russian flavors while giving them a modern touch. It’s a place where Moscow’s chefs appreciate the quality and consistency of the food, along with its classic approach to Russian cuisine.
2. Vino e Cucina
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Location: Gorky Park, Krymsky Val, 9
Vino e Cucina is a favorite among Moscow’s chefs when they’re craving authentic Italian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant offers fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizza. It’s a place where local chefs can unwind while enjoying high-quality ingredients and flavors.
What to Try
- Handmade Pasta: Try the tagliatelle or ravioli, prepared fresh each day.
- Pizza Margherita: A classic Neapolitan pizza with mozzarella and basil.
- Seafood Risotto: Creamy risotto packed with fresh seafood.
Why It’s Great
The combination of authentic Italian flavors, a warm Mediterranean vibe, and casual elegance makes Vino e Cucina a beloved spot for chefs who want to enjoy simple yet refined dishes in an easygoing setting. The excellent wine list also adds to its appeal for culinary professionals.
3. Tsekh 85
Cuisine: Russian, European
Location: Arbat Street, 85
For chefs who appreciate modern twists on classic Russian and European dishes, Tsekh 85 is a go-to spot. The restaurant is known for creatively reinterpreting traditional recipes using local, seasonal ingredients. The minimalist décor, combined with its focus on modern, artistically presented dishes, makes it a favorite among Moscow’s culinary elite.
What to Try
- Boeuf Bourguignon: A beef stew with red wine and mushrooms, served with mashed potatoes.
- Duck Breast: Roast duck breast with a berry sauce.
- Crispy Potatoes: Golden crispy potatoes served with garlic and rosemary.
Why It’s Great
Tsekh 85 is a restaurant where chefs go for a creative take on traditional dishes, with a strong focus on seasonal produce. The atmosphere is casual yet refined, offering a welcoming environment to enjoy well-executed, innovative cuisine.
4. LavkaLavka
Cuisine: Russian, Farm-to-Table
Location: Kuznetsky Most, 6
For chefs who are passionate about sustainable farming and locally sourced ingredients, LavkaLavka is a must-visit. This farm-to-table restaurant focuses on serving dishes made from organic produce and free-range meats, often sourced from local farms. It’s a place where chefs come to experience seasonal, eco-conscious dining at its finest.
What to Try
- Beetroot Salad: A fresh salad with roasted beets, goat cheese, and walnuts.
- Borscht: A classic, tangy beetroot soup made with local ingredients.
- Grilled Meat: Locally sourced meats, often served with seasonal vegetables.
Why It’s Great
Chefs appreciate LavkaLavka for its commitment to local ingredients and the restaurant’s eco-friendly approach to sourcing food. The focus on fresh, seasonal flavors makes it a favorite for those in the industry who value quality and sustainability.
5. Warshawa
Cuisine: Russian, European
Location: Smolenskaya Square, 3
Warshawa is a unique spot where chefs go to indulge in authentic Soviet-era cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant offers a nostalgic atmosphere, with retro décor and a menu that blends classic Russian comfort food with contemporary techniques. It’s the perfect place to explore Soviet-inspired dishes in an elegant setting.
What to Try
- Shchi: A traditional Russian cabbage soup.
- Pelmeni: Handcrafted dumplings filled with meat or mushrooms.
- Solyanka: A hearty Russian soup made with meat, pickles, and vegetables.
Why It’s Great
For chefs looking to explore Russian history through its flavors, Warshawa offers the perfect balance of traditional Soviet recipes and modern culinary techniques. The restaurant’s focus on quality ingredients and classic dishes makes it a favorite for those seeking to enjoy authentic Russian food.
6. Café Kranzler
Cuisine: European, Contemporary
Location: Tverskoy Boulevard, 24
Café Kranzler is a modern, stylish café that blends European and Russian culinary traditions with a contemporary approach. This popular spot is a favorite of Moscow’s culinary professionals for its fusion menu that takes traditional dishes and adds creative twists. It’s an ideal place for a relaxed yet elegant meal.
What to Try
- Salmon Tartare: Fresh salmon paired with a tangy citrus dressing.
- Duck Confit: Slow-cooked duck served with a rich berry sauce.
- Pasta with Truffle: A luxurious pasta dish with the aromatic flavor of truffle.
Why It’s Great
Café Kranzler offers a contemporary take on traditional European and Russian cuisines, making it a popular choice for chefs seeking innovative, yet familiar flavors. The casual ambiance and carefully curated wine list add to its appeal for a relaxed but refined dining experience.
7. Ruski
Cuisine: Russian, European
Location: Federation Tower, 2
Located in the Federation Tower, Ruski offers not only a stunning view of Moscow’s skyline but also exceptional Russian cuisine with a modern European influence. The restaurant is known for its sophisticated atmosphere and menu that creatively blends Russian ingredients with international flavors, making it a favorite among the city’s chefs.
What to Try
- Russian Caviar: Served with blini and sour cream.
- Black Sea Fish: Fresh fish from the Black Sea, prepared in a refined style.
- Siberian Pelmeni: Traditional dumplings filled with meat and served with sour cream.
Why It’s Great
For chefs looking to explore the intersection of Russian and European cuisine, Ruski offers an exceptional setting. The modern and elegant décor, combined with the stunning view, makes it a prime spot for indulging in fine dining while appreciating the city’s beauty.
8. Café Pouchkine
Cuisine: French, Russian
Location: Tverskoy Boulevard, 26/1
Café Pouchkine is an elegant French-Russian fusion restaurant where chefs enjoy sophisticated dishes inspired by both cultures. The restaurant is known for its classical French techniques combined with Russian ingredients. Its opulent decor adds to the allure, making it a perfect destination for a luxurious culinary experience.
What to Try
- Duck Pâté: A French-inspired duck liver pâté paired with Russian pickles.
- Boeuf Bourguignon: A rich beef stew with a French twist.
- Caviar: Served with blini and a variety of traditional toppings.
Why It’s Great
Café Pouchkine brings the best of both Russian and French culinary traditions, and it’s beloved by chefs for its ability to blend these flavors seamlessly. The restaurant’s sophisticated atmosphere and beautifully crafted dishes make it a must-visit for those in search of a refined dining experience.
Conclusion
Moscow’s restaurant scene is filled with places where the city’s chefs themselves go to dine, whether they’re looking for innovative takes on Russian classics, indulging in sustainable ingredients, or enjoying simple European dishes. From the refined atmosphere of Café Pushkin to the seasonal, creative menus at LavkaLavka, these insider spots provide a glimpse into the culinary world that fuels Moscow’s top chefs. Whether you’re after traditional comfort food or modern cuisine with a twist, these restaurants offer exceptional dining experiences that will leave you inspired.
