Russia
Sochi's food has strong ties to Russian and Caucasian traditions.
Popular dishes include shashlik and khachapuri, reflecting the multi-ethnic resort status.
Recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends or during high season.
5-10% of the bill for good service. Not obligatory. Check for service charge.
Lunch is often the main meal (1-3 PM). Dinner from 7 PM onwards.
Marinated and grilled meat skewers, a staple of Caucasian cuisine. Lamb, pork, chicken, beef.
Found at cafes, restaurants, roadside eateries, Krasnaya Polyana.
Traditional Georgian cheese bread. Adjaruli (boat-shaped with egg), Imeruli (round), Megruli (round with cheese on top).
Available in most Georgian restaurants and many bakeries.
Large Georgian soup dumplings, typically filled with spiced meat and flavorful broth.
Found in Georgian restaurants. Hold the top knot, bite a small hole, slurp the broth.
Small baked or fried buns with various fillings like cabbage, potato, meat, or apple.
Kvass (fermented rye bread drink), Compote (fruit drink), Local Wines (Kuban-Vino, Fanagoria).
Upscale restaurants in luxury hotels or Krasnaya Polyana resorts.
Common and versatile options for many cuisines.
Stolovaya (canteen-style cafeterias) for home-style Russian food.
Selection of Italian, Japanese (sushi), Chinese. General European and some Middle Eastern options.
Cater to varied tastes.
Sanatorium dining for cultural insight. Mountain restaurants for views.
Beachfront cafes for sea views during summer.
Vegetarian options are increasing. Georgian cuisine has suitable dishes. Vegan options limited.
Not widely advertised. Carry translated allergy cards. Self-catering is a good option.
Use translation apps to communicate dietary needs clearly.
Consider apartments with kitchens for complete control over ingredients.
Various food-related events and fairs throughout the year.
Showcase local produce, regional wines, traditional dishes.
Check local event listings for specific dates and details.
Opportunities for tasting and cultural immersion.
Dining in a sanatorium: Traditional, communal style, cultural insight.
For authentic and inexpensive lunch, seek out a "stolovaya".
Experience the traditional, often communal, dining style of a sanatorium.
Dining with panoramic views in Krasnaya Polyana.
Dining directly on the beach or at a promenade cafe with sea views.
Layered honey cake, very popular, with thin honey-flavored cake layers and a sour cream or condensed milk cream filling.
A delightful Russian dessert.
Russian version of the French mille-feuille, many delicate layers of puff pastry with a rich custard cream.
A classic choice.
Abundance of fresh local fruits, including cherries, apricots, peaches, and watermelon.
Persimmons, grapes, and pomegranates are plentiful.
Tangerines, often associated with New Year celebrations, are a common sight.
Experience Sochi's culinary blend: Savor Georgian delights like khachapuri and khinkali alongside traditional Russian dishes.
