Riga Food
Traditional food in Latvia tends to revolve around pork and potatoes. This relatively unimaginative combination, however, is increasingly being supplemented by a variety of cuisines, taking their lead from across the world.
Riga in particular is becoming a magnet for international dishes. While pork and potatoes may still be the favourite of most locals, the growing influx of visitors to the region means that an increasingly diverse range of restaurants is cropping up in the city to cater for all tastes.
Another central element of Latvian food seems to be cream, whether this be in the form of creamy sauces accompanying main courses, or heaped in abundance on all manner of desserts. Visitors looking to watch their waistlines while in Riga will find it hard given all the temptation, especially when prices remain relatively cheap – although Riga can sometimes be surprisingly expensive when compared to its Eastern European neighbours.
One of the best places to taste authentic, traditional Latvian fare is at Rozengrals. Situated on Riga's narrowest street, it is almost impossible to miss, with its large wine casks almost filling the street! Although it may look like a tourist trap, this is one of the exceptions to the rule. Travellers in the city are able to mix with locals, many of whom come here for the good quality food and relatively cheap prices. The candlelit cellar of this historic building has been mentioned in writings dating back as far as 1293, so when it comes to providing an authentic feel for the history of Riga, nowhere is better prepared! Large portions are the order of the day at this restaurant, with wild game, pork and local fish all regularly featuring on the menu.
Despite Riga being a little more expensive than many places in Eastern Europe, it remains impressively cheap when compared to other parts of the world, meaning that eating out can become an extravagant business, even for those on a tight budget. International cuisine can be provided in opulent surroundings far cheaper than most would visitors will be used to, so splashing out can become the norm, rather than the exception! As such, those on a budget may be able to enjoy the food at Charlestons, near the centre of the city. This impressive restaurant is classy and warm, and provides diners with a cool background music selection of jazz and blues. The food is exceptional, offering such treats as pancakes with salmon and carrot and orange cream soup.
Riga enjoys a wide variety of pubs and bars in which visitors can enjoy a drink. Although, like many cities across Europe – and indeed the world – there has been an explosion in the number of Irish-themed pubs springing up across the city in recent times, there remains plenty of choice for visitors and a number of more traditional bars in the centre of town.
Being in the capital of Latvia, it is almost imperative that travellers try the country's favourite and most famous beer: Aldaris. Its smooth, crisp taste makes it well sought-after in Riga and the rest of Latvia, and it is fast establishing a name for itself alongside some of the most famous brands in the world. The country also boasts a number of other brews, including Cesis and Lacplesis, which are also well regarded by locals and visitors alike. For something a bit stronger, Kristaldzidrais is one of the best selling vodkas in the country, while Riga Black Balsam is the country's top liqueur.
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Eating & Drinking
