Minsk Nightlife
often act as restaurants as well, meaning those looking to eat, drink and dance within the same four walls can do so in a choice of many establishments. Minsk also does a long line in fairly tedious cabaret acts, often in the same establishment as a regular disco, making it important to ensure that the club you are entering will allow you to dance rather than being forced to watch someone else do it for you. One of the most famous of these multi purpose clubs is Sphera on Dzerjinskogo Ave, slightly away from the main nightlife district. Twenty somethings love this place and it can get packed on the weekends, when the allure of a restaurant, disco, strippers and ten-pin bowling packs them in.
For something a little more conventional, try Reactor on V Horuzhei, where progressive house and dance keep the masses going. No dress code.
On Internacionalnaya you will find the city's most glamorous nightclub, X-Ray. This is where Minsk's trendiest people hang out and the doormen will not think twice about turning you away if you don't match up. If you manage to get in you will find the place to be ultra modern, with a dance floor connected to the chic bar.
The culture lover will find much to enjoy in Minsk of an evening, with a variety of theatrical and musical productions available. Best of all is the National Academic Operand and Ballet Theatre of the Republic of Belarus on Parizhskaya Commune Square, which normally has a production of superb quality on show.
Minsk restaurants are superb and offer a huge amount of choice, with many far eastern and western influences to be seen amidst the traditional Slavic eateries. Those wishing to go local should be prepared to eat large amounts of pork, as it is the most popular meat by a mile, while potatoes and mushrooms seem to accompany every dish. One of the most unique offerings is mochanka, which is a thick soup mixed with lard and accompanied by pancakes.
If it's just a nice place to enjoy a few pints and some good nosh you're after then why not try the Rakovski Brovar on Vitebskaya, which is a small independent brewery that also contains a fine restaurant. Traditional Belorussian meals are available here, as is a fine selection of fish dishes. Live music is often also enjoyed here.
For some of the best in local cooking head to Pechki-Lavochki on Avenue Nezavisimosti in the centre of town. There is also a nice salad buffet to take advantage of and a good range of draught beers.
Lastly, Minsk also does a good line in pancake (bliny) restaurants and Tet-a-tet on Skaryny Avenue is widely regarded as one of the best. A huge range of fillings and sources is available and it is a cheap and different way of filling up at a lunchtime.
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Nightlife and eating & drinking
