Traveling isn’t just about the sights — it’s also about the food. Especially in Minsk, where you can enjoy hearty Belarusian cuisine, Georgian and Caucasian flavors, or even creative signature dishes — all without breaking the bank. But where exactly should you go to find places that are delicious, homey, and reasonably priced?
In this article, we’ve rounded up five local favorites — from modern canteens to cozy cafés — that Minsk residents themselves love. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or simply looking for a good meal without the fuss, these spots are definitely worth a visit.
Svoi Restaurant — cozy, hearty, and no frills
Located near Oktyabrskaya metro station, Svoi is one of those go-to places where locals eat when they just want a good, satisfying meal. The interior is unpretentious but full of charm — exposed brick, wood, and a touch of retro décor set the mood for a relaxed lunch or dinner. But the real highlight is the food. The menu features Belarusian and European comfort dishes served in a home-style way: generous portions, fair prices, and straightforward presentation. It’s a perfect choice if you’re after a real meal — not just a quick bite.
What’s on the menu:
- Chicken liver & grapefruit salad — 19 BYN
- Borscht — 13.20 BYN
- Skillet with potato pancakes & chicken sausages — 23.50 BYN (if you’re a true connoisseur of this iconic Belarusian dish, we highly recommend checking out our guide Where to Eat Draniki in Minsk That Even Your Grandma Would Approve Of)
- Grilled pork neck with potatoes — 25.10 BYN
What locals say:*
“Great little restaurant. Everything was delicious — we ate here several times. Tried different skillets, potato pancakes, and borscht — all great. Extra points to the waitstaff: always super friendly and welcoming.”
“A good spot with tasty food and very polite service. The bathroom alone is a piece of art! The borscht was a bit mild — we wanted more spice — but the traditional Belarusian skillets were amazing. Hearty stuff: sausages, pork belly, fried potatoes, and pickles all in one dish. The salad with farm cheese was also great, and the mushroom skillet was a hit too. Plus, the signature cocktails made with local infusions were surprisingly good. Bonus: a view of one of Minsk’s central streets.”
Address: 22 Nezavisimosti Ave.
Website: https://www.restoransvoi.by/
Zharynka Café — fire-grilled meats and old Belarusian charm
Tucked next to Gorky Park, Zharynka is a cozy, atmospheric spot that brings a rustic, countryside dining vibe right into the heart of Minsk. Inside, you’ll find a fireplace, hand-painted murals, and even live piano music. In warmer months, the quiet inner courtyard is a lovely place to relax. The menu centers around grilled meats, traditional hunting recipes, and hearty dishes from old Belarusian cuisine — think robust flavors, filling sides, and freshly baked bread. It’s a must-visit for those who appreciate ambiance and solid, soulful food.
What’s on the menu:
- Belarusian-style borscht — 15 BYN
- Venison salad with seasonal vegetables & smoked sour cream — 22 BYN
- Dran Dranych (loaded potato pancake) — 22 BYN
- Charcoal-grilled pork ribs — 25 BYN
What locals say:
“Tasty food, reasonable prices, interesting interior. The courtyard is super cozy.”
“Lovely atmosphere, spacious interior — it gave me that warm, fairytale-like feeling from childhood. The staff were so nice. We tried the ‘Derevensky Razguliay’ set — incredible! The meat was tender and juicy. Mushrooms, potatoes, marinated onions — everything just melted in your mouth!”
Address: 5 Frunze Str.
Website: Instagram
Tiflis — Georgian warmth just outside the city center
A cozy Georgian restaurant near Park Chelyuskintsev metro station, Tiflis is all about atmosphere — warm, welcoming, and filled with the aromas of khinkali, baked cheese, and spices. The interior feels like a classic Tbilisi tavern: brick walls, carved wood, and soft lighting. The staff greet you like family, the food comes out fast, and the wine recommendations flow easily. The menu covers all the Georgian favorites at wallet-friendly prices. If you’re craving a soulful dinner with big flavors and no fuss, this is the spot.
What’s on the menu:
- Tbilisi-style khinkali — 13.2 BYN
- Kharcho (spicy beef soup with rice) — 17.9 BYN
- Chakhokhbili (chicken stewed with herbs and tomatoes) — 22.9 BYN
- Ojakhuri (pork and potatoes with onions and spices) — 20.5 BYN
What locals say:
“I love this place. It’s so relaxing, the food is excellent, and the atmosphere is lovely.”
“Best Georgian restaurant in Minsk! Fantastic food and service. The lunch menu keeps me coming back. If you want to taste real Georgian cuisine — this is where to go.”
“Delicious food, fair prices, quick and friendly service, clean and spacious inside.”
Address: 3 Tolbukhina Str.
Website: https://www.tiflisminsk.by/
Moya Dorogaya — a cozy bistro with a Belarusian twist
This small café on Komsomolskaya Street is a great find for lunch or an early dinner right in the city center. The menu blends familiar comfort food with creative takes on Belarusian classics — simple at first glance, but with surprising flavors. The interior isn’t flashy, but it feels homey and unhurried, perfect for a laid-back meal. There’s no breakfast menu here (they open at noon), but for a satisfying and affordable midday bite, Moya Dorogaya hits the spot.
What’s on the menu:
- Soup served in a bread bowl — 16 BYN
- Baked pork ears with mashed potatoes — 19 BYN
- Zharenka (hearty Belarusian skillet dish) with meat — 20.5 BYN
- Braised pork cheeks in vegetable sauce with potatoes — 25 BYN
What locals say:
“Highly recommend! Filling, tasty, and very reasonably priced. Dishes like the ‘Big Derunburger’ and ‘Zharenka with mushrooms’ are near masterpieces. A reminder not to judge a place by its modest décor. Also, very friendly and polite service. And the location in the historic center is a big plus.”
“Tasty, affordable lunches and a varied menu with plenty of Belarusian dishes to choose from. Staff is always welcoming and attentive.”
Address: 13 Komsomolskaya Str.
Website: Instagram
LIDO — Belarusian comfort food, self-serve style
LIDO is a beloved chain of self-service restaurants offering hearty, affordable meals with a local twist. It’s a reliable choice for anyone looking to eat quickly, well, and without spending much. The cafeteria-style setup lets you browse and pick exactly what you’re craving — from borscht and draniki to schnitzels, casseroles, and desserts. With its folk-inspired interiors, spacious dining halls, and generous portions, LIDO is popular with both tourists and Minsk locals alike. A perfect stop for a filling lunch between city strolls.
What’s on the menu:
- Greek-style salad with soft cheese — 4.5 BYN
- Homemade-style draniki — 4.5 BYN
- Pork cutlet — 4.2 BYN
- Poultry pilaf — 9 BYN
What locals say:
“My favorite place for tasty, affordable home-style food! The staff is always friendly and helpful. Thank you!”
“Amazing spot — I absolutely love it. We have lunch here almost every day. The draniki are incredible, and the soups and sauces are just as good. Mostly traditional Belarusian food. The crepes taste just like homemade. Always chilled juices and warm drinks on offer — my favorite is the hawthorn tea. Great variety, tasty, large portions, and satisfying desserts. Highly recommend!”
Addresses:
49 Nezavisimosti Ave.
5А Kulman Str.
5 Nemiga Str.
Website: https://www.lido.by/
Minsk knows how to surprise — especially when it comes to food prices. You don’t have to spend a lot to eat well and soak up the city’s atmosphere. From modern restaurants with a local twist to cozy, home-style canteens — the Belarusian capital offers something for every taste and budget.
Whether it’s a hearty lunch at LIDO, the rich spices of the Caucasus at Tiflis, or a slow evening meal in the intimate setting of Zharynka, let your culinary finds become one more warm memory from your trip.
*All reviews cited are sourced from Yandex Maps.
