If you want to try traditional Russian specialties then Podvorye is the place to go. It is situated about 30 kilometers south from Saint Petersburg in Pavlovsk. The restaurant is situated in a typical Russian loghouse with an interior filled with wooden panels, bear skins and traditional Russian decorations.

Here you can taste Russian delicacies such as pickled mushrooms and garlic, borsch, cold beef stroganoff, shashlik grilled on the outdoor grill, bear, elk, pumpkin soup, blinis, sturgeon and much much more. It is a very extensive menu. There is also a wide choice of drinks including wine and of course vodka but also non-alcoholic such as the cranberry drink mors. Do not miss out to drink something from the extensive tea-menu afterwards.

The atmosphere and service are relaxed, friendly and efficient. There is a mix of locals, tourists and famous dignitaries in the large restaurant. This is the place where Vladimir Putin has celebrated his birthday. Sometimes there is a traditional Russian performance while eating, a bit kitsch but not uncommon in Saint Petersburg.

Podvorye may not be a traditional fine dining experience but it is a good, authentic, classical Russian food experience.

Written by Joakim