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Very much maligned and misunderstood is a terrible cliché, and one that is also quite handy for describing the attitude to Russian food. Most people's vision of eating in Russia is clouded by images of empty shelved supermarkets, black bread and the McDonalds in Moscow.
| While it's true that Russia has suffered more shortages and famines than most countries over the years, it is certainly not the case that the people of Russia take little interest in what their food tastes like.
However, the Russian climate is rather uncompromising and, similarly to Poland, Russian cuisine reflects the fact that there's a limit to what you can grow, both in terms of variety and season. Hence there is a noticeable reliance on the hardier vegetables, like cabbage, potato and beetroot. Milk, cream and cheese are also big, as are rye flour, dried peas and beans. Meat and fish haven't always been as easy to get hold of as they are now, but there are plenty of traditional dishes involving both.
Preserved foods play a significant role in shaping the cuisine, as long winters mean food must be stored for almost half the year. Bread is the main staple, with rye flour a common constituent. As mentioned above, dried peas and beans are common, and fish and sausages are often dried or smoked to extend their shelf life. 
Russians are very heavy drinkers, and vodka is consumed in great quantity, and with considerable gusto. You can avoid drinking on an empty stomach by insisting on delights such as cured herring, smoked salmon on blinis or spiced roast pork to accompany the bottle of Stolichnaya.
Main courses are generally hearty and heavy, with potato dumplings often accompanying meat dishes. Pelmeni are Siberian dumplings, made with potato and stuffed with spiced pork. Golubtsy are cabbage leaves stuffed with chopped pork and vegetables. Perepeulka are quail, and are often pan-fried and then baked with mushrooms, spices and stock.
Berries are often incorporated in desserts, with berry-topped pancakes popular. Chocolate is also often on the menu, often combined with sponge cake and alcohol! So, where should you go to try out some decent Russian food in Sofia? |
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| Taboo Club |
| Taboo Club is situated in the center of Sofia, in the most prestigious area in the city, righ |
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| Chevermeto |
| Unique setting.
Music that flies into the space and dances that drived the world crazy. |
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| KO Bar & Diner |
| If you want to enjoy an incredible panoramic view over Sofia City and delicious European cuisine you |
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| Rome |
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| Club Dolls |
| A unique cocktail of dance, music and VIP service and show. Every night 20 super ladies... |
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