Moscow’s culinary scene is currently experiencing a surge in Chinese restaurants and cafes that honor traditions while embracing innovation. These establishments offer a diverse range of dishes, from authentic dim sum to expertly crafted noodles and soups.
“Chinese Literacy,” spearheaded by Alexander Rappoport, offers a unique dining experience with its blend of historical artifacts and modern Chinese music. Chef Zhang Xiancheng balances authenticity with creative presentation, offering dishes like Shanghai-style duck with goji berries and crispy eel with eggplant. The menu caters to both classic and adventurous palates, with options ranging from crayfish popcorn to 72-hour stewed chicken feet.
Tricky, a noodle shop that opened just a year ago, specializes in Asian street food. The restaurant focuses on delivering authentic flavors with the right amount of spice. Their homemade Bian Bian noodles, with various toppings, are a highlight.
Wu Shu stands out with its aesthetic interior, reminiscent of a Wong Kar-wai film set. The restaurant focuses on dim sum and wontons in fragrant broth. The bar offers cocktails dedicated to cult Chinese action movies.
Chiho is a chain of cafes known for its affordable prices and large portions. The menu includes crispy eggplants in sweet and sour sauce, spicy chicken soup, rice with crispy kowloon chicken, and udon with beef.
Moon offers a mix of Asian traditions, with a focus on China. Chef Mark Shakh Akbari leads a team of masters from China, serving dishes such as salads of crispy vegetables and beaten cucumbers, mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, and Peking duck.
Koji blends Chinese and Indonesian cuisines. The menu includes dumplings with duck and crab, Peking duck, and coal fish, as well as Indonesian laksa soup and fried rice with pastrami or seafood. The cocktail menu features sake and Asian spirits in unexpected combinations.
Mr. Lee aims to provide an authentic Chinese taste. Chef Li Zhang imports many ingredients directly from China, offering a menu that includes Peking duck, carp in sweet and sour sauce, and salads with pork ears or jellyfish.