Food History of Kirov Square, Irkutsk, Russia
Kirov Square is located in the heart of Irkutsk, a city with a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. Due to its geographical location near Lake Baikal and along the historic Silk Road, Irkutsk developed into a cultural melting pot and that includes gastronomy. The city has been influenced by various culinary traditions from the native Siberian tribes, Russian settlers, and even some Asian influences. Traditional dishes are made from local ingredients that can endure the harsh Siberian climate and are designed to provide warmth and sustenance.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Kirov Square, Irkutsk, for Tourists
1. Omul Fish: A local delicacy from Lake Baikal, usually smoked or grilled (Non-veg)
2. Siberian Pelmeni: Dumplings filled with minced meat, fish, or mushrooms served with sour cream (Non-veg/Veg)
3. Blini with Fillings: Thin Russian pancakes that can be served with various fillings such as cheese, jam, or honey (Veg)
4. Solyanka: A thick, spicy, and sour soup that comes in different varieties, meat-based or mixed with fish (Non-veg)
5. Pirozhki: Small baked or fried buns stuffed with different fillings like potatoes, cabbage, or berries (Veg)
6. Borsch: A beetroot soup, often served with sour cream and a piece of rye bread (Veg/Non-veg if made with meat stock)
7. Syrniki: Fried quark (a type of fresh dairy product) pancakes, typically served with jam, honey or sour cream (Veg)
8. Vareniki: Dumplings similar to pelmeni, but usually stuffed with vegetarian fillings like potato, cabbage, or cherries (Veg)
9. Shchi: A traditional Russian cabbage soup that is available as a vegetarian dish (Veg)
10. Ukha: A clear fish soup, traditionally made with fresh catches from local Siberian rivers (Non-veg)
Top Famous Restaurants in Kirov Square, Irkutsk, with Addresses and Famous Food
1. Kochevnik at Ulitsa 3-go Iyulya, 23 - Famous for its traditional Siberian cuisine, including smoked omul, and an authentic ambience. (Non-veg)
2. Figaro at Karla Marksa St, 13 - Known for European dishes and a sophisticated atmosphere, try the vegetarian blini with various fillings. (Veg)
3. Rassolnik at Sukhe-Batora St, 9 - A great place for traditional Russian soups, including the namesake rassolnik and vegetarian borsch. (Veg/Non-veg)
4. Tokyo at Sverdlova St, 23 - A sushi restaurant for those looking to enjoy a taste of Asia in Irkutsk, offering fish dishes such as sushi with omul. (Non-veg)
5. Harat's Pub at Ulitsa Sedova, 23 - While primarily a pub, Harat's serves a wide selection of bar foods including vegeterian options such as pirozhki. (Veg)
6. Antresol at Ulitsa Karla Marksa, 22 - This cozy café offers a broad menu with a variety of dishes, including vegetarian vareniki. (Veg)
7. Prego Italian Restaurant at Karla Marksa St, 29 - For an Italian twist, offering delicious vegetarian pastas and pizzas. (Veg)
8. London Pub at Gagarina Blvd, 23 - A British-themed pub offering a range of European dishes, including vegetarian options. (Veg)
9. Cafe Mamai at Dekabristov St, 85 - A cafe well-known for its Buryat cuisine (a subgroup of Mongols in Russia) offering a variety of traditional dishes such as pozi (Buryat dumplings), ensure to ask for vegetarian options. (Non-veg/Veg)
10. Stratosphere at Lenina St, 13 - With its panoramic views of the city, this restaurant offers fusion cuisine and some traditional dishes such as solyanka. (Non-veg/Veg)
While visiting Kirov Square, you will find a wide array of dining options that showcase the diverse culinary history of Irkutsk and Siberia, accommodating a variety of tastes, from traditional Russian meals to international flavors, with options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.