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Daugavpils is Latvia‘s second largest city set on the banks of the Daugava River, an historical center brimming with winding lanes and Soviet-style architecture, and a quintessential Eastern European town full of bustling locals, dramatic scenery and infectious energy. Ever fancied trying Latvian cuisine? Well now’s your chance, with Daugavpils offering visitors a fine selection of native fare, including scrumptious smoked fish, steamed vegetables and many meat-based dishes. So without further ado, here’s our definitive guide to the top 10 restaurants in Daugavpils, Latvia.

Outdoor architecture of Daugavpils I

Arabika

Cafe, European

Arabika is a popular post-soviet style cafe reminiscent of the bygone Latvian era of stark colors and simple furnishings. Locally sourced produce is used here to create no-fuss cuisine, a top pick being the fragrant mushroom soup, the ingredients for which are actually grown in the on-site garden. A number of international dishes are also available here, including fresh Greek salads and spicy Indian curries.

Lidadis Park

Restaurant, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Street Food

Walking into Lidadis Park is like stepping into a hunting lodge rather than a restaurant, with preserved game and assorted memorabilia adorning the walls, and a large and elegant chandelier making for a spectacular centerpiece. Customers here can choose from an array of meat stews, pizzas and lighter bites, and the venue is open for both lunch and dinner daily. Although at the higher end of the price scale in Daugavpils, the flawless service and exquisite presentation of the dishes here make it worth every penny.

Gliemezis

Cafe, European

The Latvian word for “snail,” Gliemezis is exactly what one pictures a hip Russian cafe in the nineties to be like. Tattered sofas and amateur artwork combine to create a trendy, college dorm feel here, with students frequenting the venue and often seen studying with a coffee in hand. A top spot to relax in town, enjoy life at a snail’s pace here and kick back with a colorful cocktail or fruity beverage, with snacks available including meat sandwiches and homemade fries. Don’t miss Friday nights here when the place is packed wall to wall.

Gubernators

Gubernators is a quaint underground establishment offering visitors an authentic taste of Latvia, with traditional wooden furnishings, Latvian or Russian menus and tasty cuisine being served which centers around sumptuous seafood. Thanks to Latvia’s close proximity to the Baltic Sea the dishes served here often include fish, and Gubernators is the spot in which to have your first mouthwatering sample; try the fish soup or the salmon salad, and perhaps pair these with side dishes of roast potatoes or perfectly steamed vegetables. The multicultural aspect of Daugavpils is emanated charmingly here, with the rustic interior combining an eclectic mix of Russian, Jewish, Polish and German styles.
Address and Telephone: Gubernators, Lacplesa iela 10, Daugavpils, Latvia +371 06 542 2455

Šokoladņa

Šokoladņa is a small and cozy venue offering guests an intimate dining experience, with the Soviet-era starkness of the furnishings completely contrasting with the vibrant and colorful, delicious cakes and desserts on offer. A top spot to satisfy a sweet craving in Daugavpils, don’t miss the indulgent and gooey chocolate cake that is arguably the best in town. And for a refreshing beverage after a meal, customers are encouraged to sample the black tea or coffee, expertly brewed and full of flavor.
Address and Telephone: Šokoladņa, Riga leia 26, Daugavpils, Latvia

Pasaules Brinumi

During the icy Latvian winters there’s no better place to be than Pasaules Brinumi, an establishment offering customers a picturesque log fire, a vivacious atmosphere and fantastic food. One of the best starters on the menu here is the round fried potato balls served with a garlic dip, a dish which tastes similar to the Polish pierogis. Follow this up with the chicken breast with crushed walnuts. The twists on traditional dishes here make this one of the most innovative restaurants in Daugavpils, and with such a friendly and homely atmosphere, you’ll find yourself quickly becoming a regular customer, especially when you realize that beer, salad and rice are all included with every meal.
Address and Telephone: Pasaules Brinumi,15 Vienibas Street, Daugavpils, Latvia +371 65 421 797

Ukrainska Hatka

Traditional Ukrainian cuisine can often be found in Daugavpils thanks to the size-able population of Ukrainians who have found a welcoming home in Latvia, and Ukrainska Hatka provides a top spot in which to try the traditional food of the country, served by enthusiastic staff adorned in typical national dress. An entirely Ukrainian-run establishment, customers here can choose from a flavorful borshch, homemade soups and mounds of freshly baked, aromatic bread. This is a top choice to get a taste of the Ukraine whilst in Latvia.
Address and Telephone: Ukrainska Hatka, 25 Cietoksna Street, Daugavpils, Latvia

Sia Park Hotel Latgola

Sia Park Hotel Latgola is a restaurant with a high price tag, but is a venue offering unbeatable service, unrivaled elegance and top-notch Latvian cuisine. Situated on the top floor of a ten-story hotel, customers here are encouraged to try the delicious avocado soup and chicken risotto. A perfect setting in which to celebrate a special event, indulge in a glass of cava here whilst enjoying New York-style dining, with flawless service, chic features and a sophisticated ambiance.
Address and Telephone: Sia Park Hotel Latgola, Gimnazi Jas 46, Daugavpils, Latvia

Sia Park Hotel Latgola I Courtesy of Sia Park Hotel Latgola

The Dinaburger

The Dinaburger is a tasty and cheap burger joint in Daugavpils offering customers flavorful patties, crisp, fresh buns and the finest topping ingredients. Try the signature Dinaburger served with homemade fries and two kinds of dip, one of the most popular choices. The children’s option here is generously sized and will leave little diners full until dinner time. Pair your burger with one of many fruity cocktails available and unwind in one of Daugavpils’ most laid-back and friendly establishments.
Address and Telephone: Dinaburger, Viestura Iela 58, Daugavpils, Latvia

Dvinskas Seta

At Dvinskas Seta customers will receive Soviet-style service along with tasty and traditional Latvian food, a choice which incorporates local variations on the classics. A cozy and warm neighborhood establishment, guests come here to try the traditional dish of sklandrausis, a sweet-tasting pie made from rye dough and filled with potato and carrot paste. Be warned; the portion sizes here are huge, so make sure to bring a hearty appetite with you.

Address and Telephone: Dvinskas Seta, Valnu Iela, 27B, Daugavpils, Latvia +371 65 475 937

About the author

Amanda ditched the American dream for a British one when she moved from Philadelphia to England. Recently graduating with an MA in Cultural Heritage Studies from University College London, she's fallen love with the bad weather, good books and the strange version of football. Amanda is a former school teacher and remains a competitive rower, winning national competitions in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The former archaeologist continues to travel the world, but still hasn't found what she's looking for.

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