7 Cafés in Moscow That Are Perfect for Book Lovers

This restaurant’s name translates to ‘apartment 44’, and it is, indeed, styled like an old-school apartment of Moscow Intelligentsia. Complete with homely lamp shades, shabby bookshelves and an antique piano, Kvartira 44 offers satisfying meals, live piano music after 9 pm and a one-of-a-kind ambience.

Bookvodom, located in Sokolniki Park, outgrew its status as a public library a long time ago. Now it’s a beautifully designed multi-purpose cultural centre, which houses a modern library and a coworking space. Here you can attend lectures, book readings, workshops or simply enjoy a cup of tea or coffee.

One of Moscow’s biggest and most celebrated bookstores, Moskovskiy Dom Knigi is also a home to the pleasant Literary Cafe with surprisingly good food, exciting workshops, book readings and a plethora of books from which to choose. Here you can recharge your batteries by curling up with a good book on a snug sofa.

This multi-space venue comprises a café, an artsy bookstore, a small art gallery, a designer shop and a conservatory – the latter of which hosts music performances on weekends. Founded by Vasili Tsereteli, whose father created Moscow’s Peter the Great statue, Mart shares the building with the Moscow Museum of Modern Art. Apart from the exciting cultural agenda, the café offers delicious Georgian and French dishes.

One of Russia’s most famous centres for contemporary art boasts the best museum café in Moscow. The pleasantly laid-back establishment offers an inventive menu and friendly service. As for books – you can always borrow one in the Garage Library or get one from the museum’s bookstore.

LES, located in the Museum of Moscow, is a perfect spot if you’re looking for some peace and quiet. Loved for its minimalist design, exquisite drinks and coffee-savvy staff, LES is also home to a small but well-chosen library.

One of Moscow’s best and most famous restaurants, Cafe Pushkin has an entire dining hall named ‘Library’. Grab a book and enjoy some of the best meals you can have in Russia’s capital, all while soaking in the atmosphere of a historic pre-revolutionary mansion.