10 Best Moscow Restaurants

While the sights in Moscow might be enough to keep you occupied for days, you will certainly want to keep your strength up with some fine Russian cuisine. At one time, dining out in Russia was not nearly as popular as it is today and many Muscovites chose to stay home and dine rather than dining out. The good news this attitude has definitely change and today there is a wealth of excellent restaurants in Moscow to choose from. Whether you are looking for a restaurant for a special occasion, a quick bite to eat, or some place to enjoy authentic country far, there are plenty of options from which to choose. You may just discover a new favorite dish! Read on for more details.  

This is certainly one of the most popular restaurants in all of Moscow. While it is styled after a self-service eatery, the atmosphere and the large choice of Russian cuisine at low prices are what really makes this a popular stop. Even with drinks you can usually dine for about $10 per person. If you want to try some Russian specialties, but you are on a budget, this is definitely a great place to try. Very popular with families. There are six different locations throughout Moscow.  

This popular restaurant is considered to be not only the best in Moscow, but the best in Russian. You will feel as though you have stepped back in time to the early 20th century the moment you step through the door. While the prices are higher than other options, the atmosphere and excellent cuisine are well worth the price. Be sure to try their special breakfast menu. Pushkin Café is open 24 hours per day.  

OGI actually began as a hangout for intellectual types. Today it has grown into an immensely popular chain. Here, you can enjoy a simply but artsy design, low prices and good food along with a bookshop. They are also open 24 hours a day for convenience and dining or snacking anytime.  

This specialty restaurant should definitely be on your must-do list while you are in Moscow. Treat yourself to a variety of different ancient Russian recipes from the lavish menu. If you are going to visit Red Square, a stop by the restaurant of the same name is definitely a must do. Be aware, it is a good idea to make reservations in advance, even during the day.  

This is a Ukranian restaurant that is extremely popular. The style of food is quite similar to Russian cuisine, but the atmosphere is quite authentic. A great place to stop during the summer and dine on the terraces. Known for offering big hearty meals.  

Moderately priced food with a specialty salad bar where you can try a variety of different Russian foods for very little money. Enjoy popular Russian music and folk songs while you dine.  

Be prepared for the fact that you'll need to spend some time browsing the menu at Mama Zoya. This restaurant is known for offering excellent, but affordable, Georgian style food. Perhaps one of the most unique and interesting aspects of this popular dining spot is the fact that it is located on a 3-story ship that is anchored on the banks of the Moscow River. If you are going to dine anywhere while in Russia, Mama Zoya will give you an excellent opportunity to enjoy fine food and wonderful atmosphere.  

A wonderfully and authentic place to enjoy Uzbek food. This is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. It was originally constructed in 1951. Here, you will enjoy Central Asian food along with divans, cushions and bellydancers. For an interesting evening, Uzbekistan is definitely a dining spot to consider.  

This is a very popular spot with tourists. It offers a traditional Ukranian countryside setting and delicious old-fashioned Ukranian cooking. The interior is designed after a country cottage. Even the staff are dressed in colorful embroidered folk costumes. Enjoy such Ukranian specialties as borscht (beet soup), vareniki (dumplings) and much more.  

Once you step inside this restaurant, you will certainly feel as though you have been transported to a peasant countryside. Warm yourself in front of the huge stone fireplace and enjoy the grapevines that hang charmingly from the ceiling. Known as the best Georgian restaurant in Moscow.

While there are a number of different restaurants in and around Moscow, these restaurants are considered to be among the best. From formal fare to simple peasant dishes, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of traditional Russian dishes. Be sure to bring your appetite when you visit, because you certainly will not leave these restaurants hungry!