Best Places to Eat in Odessa Ukraine

Discovering the Flavors of Odessa: A Guide to Street Food and Best Places to Eat

Odessa, a charming Ukrainian city on the Black Sea coast, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. When visiting Odessa, be sure to indulge in the local street food scene, which offers a delightful blend of traditional Ukrainian dishes, Soviet-era comfort food, and Mediterranean influences.

Street Food Favorites

1. Varenyky (Вареники)

These Ukrainian dumplings are a staple in Odessa’s street food culture. Filled with fruits, berries, potatoes, or cottage cheese, varenyky are typically served with sour cream and sugar. Try them at Vareniki U Romana (ул. Рішельєвська, 21) or Café Varenik (пл. Старобазарна, 5).

2. Shashlik (Шашлик)

Savor the flavor of Odessa’s famous skewers, typically made with marinated pork, beef, or chicken. You’ll find shashlik vendors throughout the city, especially near popular tourist spots like the Opera House and Potemkin Stairs.

3. Pryanik (Пряник)

These sweet, spiced gingerbread cookies are a beloved Odessa treat. Visit Pryanik U Koly (ул. Кольцова, 10) or Café Pryanik (пл. Старобазарна, 5) to sample these tasty morsels.

4. Kvass (Квас)

Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of kvass, a traditional Ukrainian fermented beverage made from rye bread or fruits. Look for street vendors selling kvass in small bottles or try it at Kvass Bar (ул. Рішельєвська, 25).

Best Places to Eat

1. Mamachna Kukhnia

This cozy, family-run eatery serves up hearty Ukrainian dishes like borscht, varenyky, and kovbasa (Ukrainian sausage). Address: ул. Кольцова, 14.

2. Kompot Café

Indulge in a variety of Ukrainian comfort foods, including shashlik, pancakes, and blini, at this charming café with multiple locations throughout the city.

3. Odesskiy Pryanik

This bakery and café offers an assortment of traditional Odessa treats, such as pryanik, varenyky, and Ukrainian-style pastries. Address: ул. Кольцова, 10.

4. Dacha

For a taste of rural Ukraine in the heart of Odessa, head to Dacha, which serves up farm-to-table dishes like homemade sausage, pickled vegetables, and fresh dairy products. Address: ул. Рішельєвська, 21.

Insider Tips

  • Be sure to try some local wine or Ukrainian beer to pair with your meals.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore the city’s many markets, such as Starobazarna Market, for a taste of authentic street food and fresh produce.
  • Visit Odessa during the annual Odessa Food Festival (usually in September) to sample dishes from local restaurants and food vendors.

With its rich culinary heritage and vibrant street food scene, Odessa is a food lover’s paradise. So come hungry and get ready to indulge in the flavors of this captivating Ukrainian city!