Written by Justin Mewse
September 2024
Riga, Latvia’s charming capital, is a city rich in history and culture, known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, stunning Art Nouveau architecture, and vibrant creative scene. But beyond its architectural beauty and cultural heritage, Riga has quietly become a paradise for food lovers. The city’s culinary landscape is a delightful mix of traditional Latvian flavours and contemporary gourmet experiences. Whether you’re into hearty, rustic dishes or on the hunt for innovative, Michelin-worthy cuisine, Riga offers a unique culinary adventure.
A Taste of Tradition: Exploring Latvian Cuisine
A journey through Riga’s food scene naturally starts with traditional Latvian cuisine. Rooted in the country’s agricultural heritage, Latvian food is hearty, rustic, and deeply connected to the land. A visit to Riga’s Central Market – one of Europe’s largest and most vibrant – is the perfect introduction to these traditional flavours. Located in five massive pavilions that once served as Zeppelin hangars, the market offers everything from smoked fish and meats to freshly baked rye bread and seasonal produce.
In local restaurants, you’ll find traditional dishes like grey peas with bacon (a winter staple) and aukstā zupa (a cold beet soup popular in summer). For an authentic experience, head to Milda or Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs. Both spots offer menus packed with traditional Latvian fare, complemented by locally brewed drinks. These cosy, unpretentious settings give you a true taste of the comforting nature of Latvian food.
Michelin Stars and Beyond: Riga’s Gourmet Scene
While traditional cuisine forms the base, Riga’s contemporary culinary scene has gained international attention, especially with the recent arrival of Michelin recognition. The city is home to several Michelin-recommended restaurants where talented chefs combine local ingredients with innovative techniques.
A top fine dining option is Max Cekot Kitchen, which boasts one Michelin star. Known for its creative tasting menus, this restaurant focuses on local ingredients presented in a modern and artistic way. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the cutting edge of Riga’s culinary scene in an intimate, stylish setting.
Barents is another standout, offering a fine-dining experience centred on seafood and Nordic cuisine. The restaurant is renowned for its innovative use of local ingredients, with dishes like smoked eel with grilled oysters and monkfish fillet with fondant potatoes and cider sauce. The sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere makes it a top choice for food enthusiasts eager to explore the best of Riga’s culinary offerings.
FERMA, another Michelin Guide gem, is located in the Quiet Centre. It offers a peaceful ambiance and dishes prepared in a real smoking house, cooked over live fire, making it a highly regarded spot in the city’s food scene.
Cafes, Bakeries, and Sweet Treats
No exploration of Riga’s food scene is complete without indulging in its vibrant café culture and sweet treats. The city is dotted with charming cafes and artisan bakeries, offering everything from freshly baked pastries to decadent desserts.
Parunāsim. Kafe’teeka. is one such hidden gem, nestled in the heart of Old Town. This cosy spot boasts a courtyard terrace and a delightful selection of cakes, sweets, and drinks.
For a treat with atmosphere, head to Mulberry, where you can enjoy artisanal pastries in a beautiful setting. With its minimalist interior and delicious offerings, this café is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. On a sunny day, grab a seat outside and savour a slice of traditional cheesecake or a mango croissant as you watch the world go by.
Food Festivals and Culinary Events
Riga also hosts culinary events that celebrate the city’s diverse food culture, offering a fantastic opportunity to sample a wide range of Latvian and international dishes.
One of the highlights is Riga Restaurant Week, held twice a year in spring and autumn. During these weeks, the spotlight is on specially crafted menus featuring seasonal and fresh local produce, giving visitors the chance to enjoy a three-course meal at varying price points.
Discover The Delights Of Riga With These Recommended Short Stays
Prices below are subject to change and availability and correct at time of submission.
5* Pullman Riga Old Town
Pullman Riga Old Town is a contemporary hotel set in a historic building, offering stylish rooms, modern amenities, and a unique blend of tradition and luxury in the heart of the city.
2 Nights Room Only
From £160pp
Including flights
Operated by Lastminute.com
- This magnificent 1789 building, seamlessly merged with a contemporary structure, neighbours iconic landmarks such as Dome Square, the Parliament, National Theatre, Freedom Monument, and National Opera
- Harper Woolf restaurant offers global cuisine, shared dining, and table-side cooking, creating a warm atmosphere celebrating cultural exploration and fresh ingredients
- Swimming pool
- Spa and sauna
- 2 nights at 5* Pullman Riga Old Town
- Superior Room
- Room Only - Breakfast from £31pppn
- Return flights
- ATOL protected
5* Dome Hotel
Dome Hotel in Riga is an elegant boutique hotel set in a 400-year-old townhouse, offering refined accommodations and a Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of the Old Town.
2 Nights Room Only
From £174pp
Including flights
Operated by Lastminute.com
- Just a few minutes' walk from the Cathedral Square
- Choose between four types of rooms of different sizes - Dome Room, Deluxe Room, Suite and Deluxe Suite. All of them offer the highest level of comfort
- Discover sophisticated cuisine with French motifs at Le Dome restaurant
- Dome Private Spa and sauna
- 2 nights at 5* Dome Hotel, Riga
- Double Room
- Room Only - Breakfast from £15pppn
- Return flights
- ATOL protected
5* Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by Semarah
Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by Semarah is a luxurious hotel, offering elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and a prime location near the city’s historic centre.
2 Nights Bed & Breakfast
From £193pp
Including flights
Operated by Lastminute.com
- Located in the very heart of historic Riga, just steps from the Freedom Monument, Old Town Riga, Latvian National Opera and directly overlooking the Bastion Hill
- 168 stylish 5-star superior accommodations
- Many fine dining options for a mouth-watering breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner
- Spa treatment rooms
- 2 nights at 5* Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by Semarah, Riga
- Standard Room
- Bed & Breakfast
- Return flights
- ATOL protected
4* Neiburgs Hotel & Restaurant
Neiburgs Hotel in Riga is a stylish boutique hotel housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building, combining modern comforts with historic charm in the vibrant Old Town.
2 Nights Room Only
From £163pp
Including flights
Operated by Lastminute.com
- Located in Old Town, Neiburgs is a family-owned hotel praised for its elegant fusion of the historical and the modern
- Filled with lots of light and created for you to enjoy the luxuries of full service, the suites are equipped with a kitchenette, designer furniture and comfortable bed
- The success of Restaurant Neiburgs is based on a blend of historical and stylish elements both in the interior and in the menu. In summer, guests are welcome to use the open-air terrace of the restaurant
- 2 nights at 4* Neiburgs Hotel & Restaurant, Riga
- Apartment Room
- Room Only
- Return flights
- ATOL protected
5* Grand Hotel Kempinski
Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga is a luxury hotel offering opulent accommodations, a world-class spa, and panoramic views of the Latvian National Opera House in the heart of the city.
2 Nights Room Only
From £290pp
Including flights
Operated by Lastminute.com
- Located in the heart of Riga, within easy reach of city centre attractions such as the Old Town and Latvian National Opera house
- Dining at Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga features exquisite culinary experiences, including the elegant Stage 22 restaurant, known for its gourmet dishes and stunning rooftop terrace views
- Kempinski The Spa
- 2 nights at 5* Grand Hotel Kempinski, Riga
- Superior King Room
- Room Only
- Return flights
- ATOL protected
5* A22 Hotel
A22 Hotel in Riga is a boutique luxury hotel housed in a beautifully restored Art Nouveau building, offering sophisticated interiors and personalised service in a prime location.
2 Nights Room Only
From £212pp
Including flights
Operated by Lastminute.com
- Step outside the hotel and be surrounded by one of the most extraordinary architectural movements of the 19th century - Art Nouveau
- A22’s design concept is all about orchestrating a mood of quiet chic
- Restaurant John fine dining and Bar Jackie
- Sauna
- 2 nights at 5* A22 Hotel, Riga
- Superior Double Room
- Room Only - Breakfast from £19pppn
- Return flights
- ATOL protected
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