Kiev is bursting at the seams with stellar restaurants just waiting for you to come in and try their dishes. And not only Ukrainian traditional food, but also many Italian, French, Thai and other cuisines.

However, there are so many terrific restaurants to choose from that selecting among them can often become a tricky situation.

So, to help you satisfy your hunger and show you the best that Kiev has to offer, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to eat in Kiev and why. So, tuck in and get reading!

Kanapa restaurant

Get a taste of both old and new Ukraine at this avant-garde restaurant located just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of central Kiev in the legendary location of the Andriyivskyy Descent.

You can’t miss it, Kanapa stands out with its wooden exterior and classical interior.

Red leather couches, Chandeliers, lengthy drapes, and sliding glass doors – the scene is adequately set for a delectable meal of a fusion between modern and classical Ukrainian dishes.

You’ll find most traditional dishes here from Borshch to Chicken Kiev (actually made out of pheasant,) and so much more. And with reviews the likes of “Traditional Ukrainian Food at its finest” it’s simply an opportunity to good to pass up.

• Address: Andriivs’kyi descent, 19
• Reservation: com.ua/uk/kanapa

Last Barricade (Ostannya Barycada)

With a more modern feel to its interior, you may be surprised that this gastronomical treat has been inspired by three Ukrainian revolutions.

In reality, the Last Barricade is an experience from start to finish.

You’ll firstly need a password to gain access, that password being “Boritesya E Poboryte” to quote the prominent Ukrainian writer Taras Shevchenko “Keep on fighting and you will fight anything”.

You will then be met by a comfortable coffee shop that eventually leads to a bar where the finest local drinks are on offer. And finally, you’ll make your way into the restaurant itself.

You’d be mistaken for thinking you were eaten in a Ukrainian history museum.

With artifacts and images from the Ukrainian revolutions spread across the walls, there’s a true sense of culture and “Ukraineness” to be found in the Last Barricade.

The Vareniky is highly recommended among people who’ve previously visited among other traditional meals such as Sturgeon Caviar and Stewed Goat’s Meat  – all delightfully Ukrainian-made.

• Address: Maidan Nezalezhnosti, 1
• Reservation: com.ua/uk/ostannya-barykada

Musafir

Initially founded in Crimea, the Musafir restaurant was moved to the heart of Kiev after the turbulent chain of events in 2014.

With respect to its Crimean roots, the restaurant has maintained an interior that is essentially an imitation of a traditional Crimean Tartar family house.

This just so happens to make Musafir one of the most comfortable, cozy, and homely places to eat in Kiev.

You will not find friendly service anywhere and the whitewashed walls, ceiling joists, and handmade tapestry create such a wonderfully laid-back ambiance.

Of course, then, you would expect to find traditional Crimean Tartar meals of all sorts on the menu and you’ll not be let down.

The “to-die-for” Cheburek, a thin, deep-fried pocket of cheese, meat or mushrooms is just that extra bit special at Musafir.

Don’t be surprised if you’re treated to a half-plate sized Cheburek!

However, the most credible testament to Musafir’s glory has to be the locals from far and wide around Kiev. You’ll never see Musafir empty, and you’ll rarely see it not packed to the brims.

So, why not find out what it’s all about?

• Address: Saksahanskoho St, 57А
• Reservation: com.ua

Vino e Cucina

Moving away from traditional Ukrainian food and into a more international sphere, here we have an impressively traditional Italian restaurant that’s even been described as “more Italian than Italy itself.”

Vino e Cucina has a little bit of something for everyone, wine-lovers, foodies, gourmets, and décor connoisseurs can all find something to spark their fancy within this marvel of Italian culture and cuisine.

Furthermore, whatever the season you find yourself visiting Kiev, you’ll also find Vino E Cucina adequately prepared.

So, take your cheese and wine out onto the summer terrace or stay cozied up inside with your delectable double cheese risotto as you admire the festive decorations.

• Address: Sichovykh Striltsiv St, 82
• Reservation: com.ua/ru/vino-e-cucina

Odessa

From the name, you have perhaps guessed the theme of this restaurant.

Odessa, the third-largest city in Ukraine and the undisputed culinary epicenter of Ukraine lends its name to this traditionally Ukrainian restaurant.

You’ll be treated to a wonderfully modern and state-of-the-art interior as you enjoy some of the most lauded and classic dishes in Kiev.

If you’ve ever wanted to get an authentic taste of Odessa, look no further.

This restaurant is your own little bite of Odessa tucked away in Kiev. You’ll find fish from the black sea on the menu alongside Tartare’s of all kinds.

• Address: Velyka Vasylkivska St, 114
• Reservation: com.ua

BAO – Modern Chinese Cuisine

Bringing a taste of modern China to Kiev, Bao offers some of the finest Chinese food for miles around.

Bao is the place at the forefront of all the Kiev local’s minds when they’re got a craving for Chinese food. And it will be your place-of-choice as well after you try its mouth-wateringly delectable dishes.

With a wide variety of soups, dumplings, dim sums, and noodles or rice dishes – you’ll certainly find something to savor.

You’ll also want to swallow up the atmosphere around – the vibrancy of BAO is a sure-thing with DJ-sets and dances being the norm.

• Address: Mechnykova St, 14/1
• Reservation: ua

Mama Manana

A Soulful gem found in the city center, Mama Manana is a testament to the depth and richness of Georgian cuisine as it serves up a plethora of superbly tasty and irresistible traditional Georgian dishes.

To really emerge their valued customers in Georgian culture, wine is served in traditional cups at Mama Manama and traditional snacks are served just in case you’re peckish before your filling meal.

If there’s one thing you simply cannot leave without trying, it’s the famous Georgian Khachapuri bread.

• Address: Velyka Vasylkivska St, 44
• Reservation: com.ua

So, dive into the many culinary delights that Kiev has to offer and satiate your hunger for both delectable dishes and culture.

Bon appetit! Or as we say in Ukrainian, Смачного (smačnóho)!

Make sure to contact me for your food and city tour in Kiev!

See you in Kiev

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Traveling Ukraine is a delight. Family vacations are wonderful. So it stands to reason that a family vacation in Ukraine is delightfully wonderful!

Traveling to Ukraine with children may seem a daunting task, as any preparation for a family vacation can be, but it is actually more straightforward than you think.

With the bags loaded with everything you’ll need to care of your little ones, the next question is of course how to make sure both the parents and the children enjoy their vacation.

Thankfully, you are in the right place!

Is it safe to travel to Ukraine with children?

Yes, it’s just as safe for kids as it is for adults, which is also plenty safe!

Though recent conflict and tension with Russia has many concerned, Ukraine remains safe to visit. Though the eastern regions are best avoided, the rest of the country is just as safe as any modern nation.

Bad press and stereotypes have given Eastern Europe an off-color image in the media, and these skewed views do not reflect reality.

Where to take children on a trip to Ukraine?

Depending on the time of year and personal preferences, Ukraine offers a wide variety of pastimes that are child and family friendly.

For the outdoor minded, eastern Ukraine is full of beaches, pools, and other water based attractions, such as paddleboats. Playgrounds abound for more land based entertainment.

For those seeking a more relaxed trip, Myrhorod is a renowned spa town, allowing respite for parents as well as fun for the kids.

If larger beaches are your preference, Odessa is the perfect location. Beautiful waters and sprawling sand are sure to bring hours of fun for parents and children alike.

If enjoying land-based nature is more your style, the forests and hills of the Carpathians are a perfect place for a family to spend time together amongst nature. Turn off the cell phones and open your eyes to the wondrous canopies and vistas abounding amongst the mountains.

For urban-minded folks, the capital of Ukraine is an absolute must!

One could easily make the argument that Kiev is an absolute must for any Ukrainian visit, children in tow or not.

For those who do bring the little ones, there are plenty of activities to keep them entertained. Aquaparks abound for those seeking year-round water fun, regardless of age. It is also a great option to consider when traveling with kids to Ukraine in winter.

Plenty of monuments and museums dot the capitol for older children as well. Independence Square is an open, relaxing part of town full of street vendors.

Cathedrals, monasteries, and World War II memorials offer beautiful architecture and learning experiences for children and adults.

The Academic Puppet Theater’s puppet shows provide local entertainment perfect for children of all ages.

Where to enjoy a family dining experience in Kiev?

If one is to visit Kiev, knowledge of where to eat is a must, especially when traveling with children.

Kanapa

For those who want an authentic experience with modern flare, Kanapa offers traditional Eastern European food with a modern twist.

Featuring music and reading rooms, the restaurant harkens back to the salons of old. Moreover, it is pet friendly, a good bonus for our four legged friends!

Tsarske Selo

For a simpler dining experience, Tsarske Selo offers local cuisine and a good location to rest and observe the city. Not far from the Pechersk Lavra monastery, the restaurant is perfect for those who need a break before or after visiting the monastery.

Pizzeria Napulè

Children can be picky eaters. Fortunately, there are few people of any age who can resist pizza, and Kiev is prepared. Pizzeria Napulè is a traditional Neapolitan style pizza place straight from Naples. If all other dining options fail to please a picky little one, the pizza offered here is sure to please.

Where to stay when traveling with children in Kiev?

Of course, traveling for any extended period requires proper accommodations. Family traveling can complicate selecting a place to stay, but Kiev’s family friendly hotel options are plenty and affordable.

Hotel Bakkara

Hotel Bakkara on Venice Island is elegant and no-nonsense at the same time. It offers dining, free parking, and comfortable surroundings. It’s also not far from the Hydropark Metro Station, allowing for quick and easy travel across the city.

Apartment Hotels

For a dedicated family friendly hotel experience, apartment hotels are an excellent idea.

Offering the accommodations of a hotel with the services of an apartment complex, hotel apartments are a perfect family friendly option for a Kiev-based vacation.

Sonya Apartments, Twin Apart and Ramada Encore are just three examples of such traveling options, and are well located, affordable, and, of course, family friendly!

Also, make sure to checkout 10 Best Kiev Family Hotels That Your Kids Will Love! for more family friendly hotels in Kiev.

Where to go in case of a medical emergency?

Though no one likes to think about it, it is important to plan for what do to in the event of a medical emergency.

As a modern city, Kiev is perfectly capable of handling medical emergencies should something happen while vacationing.

Emergency rooms, child emergency care, and other medical centers are aplenty. Though the buildings might be old and worn, the staff are well versed in their trade. Should an accident occur, there are plenty of locations to seek medical attention and get the vacation back on track.

Travel medical insurance is available for those on vacation, and recommended for expediency.

More information on health and general safety when travelling in Kiev can be found in a previously posted article, “Ukraine Travel Safety Guide”. Feel free to consult that article for more detailed safety advice.

Ukraine offers a wide variety of entertainment options and is an excellent destination for traveling with children.

Whether at the beach, amongst the forests, or in the heart of Kiev, traveling to Ukraine with children is safe, fun, and an experience you and your children are not likely to forget.

And if you need help planning your family vacation in Kiev, just contact me!

See you in Kiev

The post Traveling with Children: Enjoying a Family Vacation in Ukraine appeared first on Kiev Tour Guide | Private Tour Guide in Kiev.

Kiev city doesn’t lack great bars or restaurants. In fact, some the world’s best chefs are working in the best restaurants in Kiev. Although Kiev weather is cool most of the year, it can get real cold sometimes, so if you are walking around Kiev city in the cold, and feeling it getting stronger, it is time to look for a place to warm yourself up!

Being the good friendly private Kiev tour guide, that I am, I couldn’t help but to give you some hints about the best bars and cafes in Kiev where you can enjoy a hot drink with a warm meal

Come & Stay

The name says it all, and makes it clear that once you step in this Kiev cafe you won’t feel like leaving anytime soon!

After all, why would you? … It is warm, cozy and they serve tasty coffee with great deserts!

Lybimy Dyadya (Beloved Uncle)

If it’s cold outside, why not swing by Lubimy Dyadya?

The name means “Beloved Uncle”. Maybe it is called so because of the cozy home, sweet home vibe it gives to customers. The menu of this restaurant contains many European, Middle Eastern and other dishes.

Beside the unique design of this establishment, it has world-class library of 200 books, containing amazing literature classics such as “One Thousand and One Nights”, “War and Peace”, “A Farewell to Arms” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”.

A delicious meal, warm atmosphere, good read and cool soft music while it’s snowing outside… Just perfect!

Teplitsa

It is fair to say that Tiplitsa is one of the cozies cafes restaurants in Kiev. The establishment had all what you need to pastime in homelike atmosphere; warm design, wide variety of dishes and drinks, and even hookahs in different shapes and tastes. Don’t miss the hot drinks in Tipletsa!

One Love Espresso Bar

Enjoying a hot drink here is always a good idea, and more enjoyable in cold weather. This Kiev cafe turns into a warm comfy island, welling to shelter you from the cold wind, rain or snow, and serve you a tasty drink to cheer you up!

Lubov Markov

It means Carrots Love, and it is a weird name, unless you are familiar with Russian pop-culture, it is a term used to describe love relations in a sarcastic tone.

You should really try Lubov Markov’s signature spiced hot mulled wine and hot cider, served with fluffy waffles, and you are welcome to thank me later

Ready to Explore Kiev?

Contact Us now and let’s start planning for your Kiev holiday together

The post Warm Cafes to Stop By in Kiev Cold Weather appeared first on Kiev Tour Guide | Private Tour Guide in Kiev.

Located at arena city complex, on the famous Khreshchatyk Street Casual style Food is a combination of cafe, restaurant. Its regarded as one of Kiev’s most popular pre-party spots.

Once you enter you’ll notice one large hall with small second floor that fits the DJ booth and 3 tables, often reserved for birthdays calibrations.

There is an additional outdoor area opened during spring/summer season.

CASUAL FOOD Atmosphere in Kiev‘s

“Comfort and warmth” are the best words to describe the atmosphere at Casual Food. The simple design with its modern elements and warm colors all come together to create the warm wave of sensations.

It’s a good place to enjoy a peaceful meal during daytime, and the right place to start partying at night.

Menu and Food

The menu is compact with good selection of dishes, mostly European, thus include couple of Thai dishes.

There is an English copy of the menu, that you can request if it wasn’t given to you from the beginning.

Food portions are moderate, so you’ll not leave hungry! And all What I tried tasted good.

Service and Staff

The staff is very friendly, they are always welling to help you choose between dishes. They do speak some English,  and rarely write down orders. Yet, never missed up any my orders before

CASUAL STYLE FOOD – Prices

Prices at Casual Food are moderate and affordable.

Let’s go for a 3 course meal:

Cesar salad with chicken fillet + steak (beef) + homemade pasta with mushrooms and white sauce + fresh orange juice Costs around $20.

Who is it For

Casual Food serves as a meeting space and casual meetings during day time, and it is a great spot to meet friends at evening, and idle pre-party stop at night on weekends.

Get Your Directions on Google Map Here!

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