A great place, very nice people working. The best Russian food I tried in the US! The dumplings were delicious!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I’d like to thank Liza for the excellent service at the restaurant Saint Petersburg! 🌸 She was very attentive, friendly, and professional. Everything was served quickly, she helped us choose our dishes, and created a wonderful atmosphere for the evening. Thanks to Liza, our dinner was perfect — employees like her make any place shine! 💙

Had the borscht and pelmeni at Café St. Petersburg and wow — both were amazing! The borsh was rich and full of flavor, and the pelmeni were legit comfort food perfection. The whole place has such a fun, welcoming vibe — perfect spot to hang out, eat great food, and catch up with friends. Definitely coming back!

Amazing service! Great eauropean and Russian food. Atmosphere is sofisticated and fun, plenty of parking in the parking lot near this restaurant in Newton. Must try whole fish bass or whole chicken tabaka

There aren’t many restaurants in the Boston area serving authentic Eastern European cuisine, but this one is absolutely a must-visit! They recently remodeled, and the new decor looks so stylish, I love attention to details. Their “Napoleon” cake is to die for - truly the best I’ve ever had! I also loved the “Herring Under a Fur Coat” salad - so delicious that I’ll definitely be coming back just for that. And if you’re a fan of Espresso Martinis, you have to try theirs - it’s perfection. The service is also outstanding - our waiters, Sergey and Ilya, were extremely attentive and professional. Overall, a wonderful dining experience from start to finish!

I celebrated my birthday here, and it was an amazing experience! That evening they were hosting a Super Bowl watch party, which made the atmosphere incredibly fun and exciting. Everything was wonderful — the service, the vibe, and the overall experience. Great place, highly recommended!

Cafe St. Petersburg is hands down one of the most underrated gems in the Boston area. The food alone is enough to knock your socks off-rich, authentic Russian dishes that are packed with flavor and clearly made with pride. Every bite feels intentional, from the perfectly prepared classics to the bold, comforting flavors you won't find anywhere else nearby. But what really sets this place apart is the nightlife. On Friday and Saturday nights, Cafe St. Petersburg completely transforms. The atmosphere comes alive with energy, music, and a crowd that knows how to have a good time. It's the perfect balance of upscale dining and late-night fun—great for a date night that turns into a night out, or for going with friends and staying longer than you planned. The vibe is warm, lively, and unforgettable. Between the incredible food, strong drinks, and electric weekend atmosphere, Cafe St. Petersburg isn't just a restaurant-it's an experience. If you're looking for something different, exciting, and genuinely memorable, this spot is a must-visit. Highly recommend.

A nice vibe and great Eastern European food. Was a little quiet but it picked up later in the Thursday night we went. My Chicken Kiev was great but the Honey Cake was fantastic.

I honestly my first time trying Eastern European food / Russian food. Absolutely delicious I loved every second of it. I ordered balini for starters unfortunately I didn’t take any pictures but it was soft and amazing. Main course was chicken Kiev and wow I was absolutely blown away chicken juicy not dry at all the sauce was creamy and complicated the chicken very well, and to finish I ordered the honey cake oh my god it was delicious definitely a cake to die for not overly sweet and the portion size was very good. Overall 10/10 experience even though I was taking myself on a little date. Atmosphere was very cozy as well! I did want to note that it is on the pricy side but aside from the prices still very flavorful and worth every penny. If there is anyone who has any pointers for more authentic Russian food please let me know so I can order it next time (:

★★★★★ Our birthday jubilee celebration at St Petersburgh Restaurant was wonderful. The food was excellent, the service was top-notch, and the restaurant looked beautiful. Special thanks to Gena and Eugene—you helped make the night feel effortless and unforgettable.

Truly a special place. Clearly beloved by and infused with a strong sense of community. Very welcoming to the unfamiliar. Staff are happy to tell you about the food and how best to eat it. Menu and presentation are constantly evolving for a new experience with each visit. Experience is valued. You won't feel rushed, and there's often live music and dancing. Try the pickles, chicken paté, and Chicken Pozharsky.

Beyond the fantastic, authentic Russian menu (my favorites are the beef stroganoff, Pozharsky cutlets, and baked salmon), I made a unique, complex special request for an event here. Zhenya went above and beyond to make it happen and help the evening be incredibly memorable. This beloved spot has a been a go-to in the community for special occasions, and with food and service like that, it's easy to see why.

What an absolutely wonderful experience. We chose this restaurant for my husbands 30th Birthday Party and could not have chosen a better place. From the outstanding professional service, to the set up, to the ambient lighting, and music setup, everything was exceptional and to our expectations. Working with Anastasia was very smooth, she met all of our expectations, allowed us to visit the venue to set up our decorations, and provided everything to make us comfortable. It made us feel welcoming that the owner also approached us and asked if everything was going well. Service was just absolutely incredible and professional. From well dressed servers to not missing an order, everything arriving in time, absolutely delicious food, we were very pleased and satisfied.

Coming all the way from Newport, RI to seek out a Russian restaurant. My Fiancé found a little restaurant outside of the Boston area. Little did we know that they would soon be a big part of my life. Although I never came here, they treated me like family. The server that made us feel at home was Nikolai. My son who has autism, was treated with kindness. When we usually go to restaurants workers look at my son as if he was different/loud/annoying and try to get us out fast and here, he was treated like a regular human being. I told Nikolai that he likes mustard bread, he came back with spicy mustard, stating that it may be too spicy for him so I should try it first, I told him it was too spicy and that it was okay if he couldn't find it. he went out of his way to find regular mustard with a smile on his face and excited that he found mustard for my son’s food aversions. Little did he know when we were going home, I started crying. He was kind to us the whole time we were there and I couldn’t be more thankful for this server. He made sure my son had a small amount of salmon, along with tomatoes that he loves so much. When my son got loud or started to stim no one batted an eye. Your staff was kind and caring and most of all welcoming. It felt like a second home and I’ve only been here once. After finding out that my great-grandmother spoke fluent Russian, I went on a quest to try and learn the language and the cuisines in order to try and connect with my ancestor. This is one of the reasons why we came here in the first place. I didn’t know that this restaurant was going to treat us like family. Thank you so very much we will come again. This restaurant is easy to find and is on the T, Newton Center on the Green Line – (D) Riverside. This makes this restaurant easily accessible for people who have a hard time driving in cities! 😊

Food was delicious, the staff was incredibly kind, and the manager even came over to introduce herself and offered us complimentary champagne. Amazing experience, best Russian food in Massachusetts

Family Birthday Dinner. Superb menu and service, from seating through departure. Beef Stroganoff and the pork/beef dumplings(?) were perfect. Plus Friday night is live music and dancing, at least many patrons were dancing to the lively Russian and European music. Has a grand bar and bartender too. This is a must. Easy and free street parking, at least on a Friday night. This place is a gem!!

Always have an amazing time with my friends down there — we’re singing, dancing, and just having a blast! The drinks are great, and the vibe is awesome. I just wish the music wasn’t so loud — I can barely hear what my friends are saying, even when they’re yelling! Other than that, wow — what a night!

We loved everything about this place . The food was amazing and we had the opportunity to try some beers and vodkas that you won’t be able to find anywhere else right now. Our server/bartender was so kind and professional, his name was Sergey . We can’t wait to come back !

T B

Everything was fantastic and accurately made! It's a nice place so I'd recommend dressing up a bit. Food was so good, that I ate and forgot to photograph it ))) Must trys: Varenyki, Pelmeni, Chicken Kyiv, Napoleon cake. I recommend reserving a seat, but I didn't have to wait. I will come here my birthday.

Dmitri Cara

Absolutely delicious and authentic experience at Café St. Petersburg in Newton! The vareniki with cherry were incredible — soft, juicy, and perfectly sweet, just like in Eastern Europe. You can really taste the love and tradition in every bite. If you’re looking for authentic Russian and Eastern European food near Boston, this is the place to go. The atmosphere is cozy and elegant, the live music makes it feel like a celebration, and the staff are always warm and welcoming. Highly recommend Café St. Petersburg for anyone who loves traditional Russian cuisine, Ukrainian food, homemade pelmeni, borscht, beef stroganoff, or dumplings with cherries. A true gem for anyone who wants a taste of real Slavic hospitality right here in Newton, MA! 📍Don’t miss their weekend events and live entertainment nights — amazing vibes every time!

leva sachakov

If you’re looking for real Russian food in Newton, Café St. Petersburg is a must-visit! I tried the Pozharsky cutlets and they were absolutely incredible—crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful inside, and paired perfectly with the sides. It’s one of those dishes that feels homemade yet elevated, truly authentic. What made the evening even more special was the atmosphere. We came for dinner and ended up staying for one of their fun events with amazing live music—the vibe was energetic, welcoming, and so different from anywhere else in the area. Café St. Petersburg is not just a restaurant, it’s a cultural experience. Between the warm service, the unique events, and the delicious menu, this is one of the best places for anyone craving authentic Russian cuisine in the Boston area. We’ll definitely be back!

Joshua Young

Best Russian restaurant in Boston. Fight me. Everything we had were absolutely delicious. Originally in Brookline, they moved to Newton in 2006, and thriving ever since. Amazingly authentic and delicious Russian food I didn't realize that I need! Love the Borscht, exactly what I wanted and remembered. Rich tomato beefy broth with cabbage and carrots inside. The secret was in the broth, absolutely divine. Pirozhki was also amazing. You choose the different flavors they offer, we got cabbage and egg&scallions. Cabbage filling was flavorful, seasoned with dill, very fresh and vibrant. Egg&scallion filling was also delicious, but cabbage was the clear winner. For main course, cabbage rolls were a must try. This was not like other cabbage rolls you would have had. The meat inside was well seasoned and tender, paired with a rich tomato sauce, full of tomato umami. Oxtail meat pie was also another perfection. Pie crust was buttery and flakey, not a single doughy spot. Tender oxtail meat filling paired perfectly with the mashed potatoes. If you want a Russian meal to remember, this is the place.

Natalia Makarova

This restaurant is truly a gem! The food is absolutely delicious and has that comforting, homemade taste that makes you feel right at home. Every dish is full of authentic flavor and prepared with so much care. The staff is polite, attentive, and always makes you feel welcome. On top of that, they often host fun and interesting events, which create a lively and warm atmosphere. A wonderful place to enjoy great food and culture. Definitely a spot I’ll keep coming back to!

Sky Oliveira

Amazing atmosphere! Upon walking in my colleague and I were warmly greeted by staff. It felt as if I was in Eastern Europe enjoying heritage cuisine. The owner came greeted us at our table. Warm vibes & great food. Looking forward to my next visit!

Meghan Hennelly

The borscht with a side of horseradish infused vodka is delicious! You have to get this…I wish they sold it in massive to go pots. Great for chilly weather and to keep your iron count up. If you’re not familiar with the Newton Centre area it might be hard for you to find, so I’ve added pictures to help orient people. Plenty of parking in the Langley Lot (formerly Newton Centre Triangle Public Parking Lot), especially in the evenings and on weekends. Plenty of street parking, too.

Regina Guralnik

We came here for the event on Friday with my friends, and it was a blast! Thanks so much for hosting us tonight. The food is amazing, stuff is very friendly and the atmosphere is very welcoming as well. Come check it out!

Ajith Vasudevan

This is an excellent spot to try some Eastern European or mostly Russian food in the heart of newton. Parking can be tricky with all that’s happening in the Langley lot and surroundings and it’s not so easy to find the entrance - the new management has done some work to make it easier to find but it could be easier if there was some more signs for first time visitors. Once you are in - the ambiance is a but “cavern-like” but the service and food will more than make up for it. We went back recently as we were told by friends that there is a new management and food and service has become better if anything. It is all true - the same great food and really warm service… The caviar starter and the chicken liver pate - which was served with honey and salt - were great and the drinks are tasty - and strong! (My wife asks for them to make it half strength every time!) Mains were excellent - though the stroganoff was not quite as good as I’ve had before. I don’t know how many times I would recommend a side dish specifically but the risotto side dish is a MUST try. They are also super generous with the bread which was all excellent. Desserts are all generous portions and very good We will be back again and this seems to be one of those management changes that don’t alter the soul of the place.

Vasu Birly

Eastern European food, especially good Eastern European food, is hard to come by. Café St. Petersburg has been on my list for a couple of years, and I’m glad I finally made the trip. Everything from the service to the complimentary borodinsky bread (which I’ve now developed a love for) the entrées has been excellent. The friendly staff are very happy to answer any questions about the menu, and they know what to recommend if you have any hesitations on what to order.

Nozanin Shifoeva

Food was delicious, the staff was incredibly kind, and the manager even came over to introduce herself and offered us complimentary champagne. Amazing experience, best Russian food in Massachusetts

Steven Palmer

Family Birthday Dinner. Superb menu and service, from seating through departure. Beef Stroganoff and the pork/beef dumplings(?) were perfect. Plus Friday night is live music and dancing, at least many patrons were dancing to the lively Russian and European music. Has a grand bar and bartender too. This is a must. Easy and free street parking, at least on a Friday night. This place is a gem!!

Катя Туренко

Always have an amazing time with my friends down there — we’re singing, dancing, and just having a blast! The drinks are great, and the vibe is awesome. I just wish the music wasn’t so loud — I can barely hear what my friends are saying, even when they’re yelling! Other than that, wow — what a night!

Chris Karavoulias (BostonGreekGeek)

We went there cause my sister and brother in law, had gone to a Russian birthday party held there a while ago and they really enjoyed the food served there, so they arranged for us to meet them there for brunch. They told us that up into 4pm they only have the brunch menu to order, but checked with the chef(s), and there were a certain amount of items we could order from the lunch menu. Almost everyone ordered from the brunch menu but I loved the variety available on their lunch menu as well, so we will have to go back there after 4pm some day. I got the coconut produce and the Russian pancakes (oladushki) and both were incredible. The only downside was that they brought me the pancakes late as they thought I wanted it as a second meal, because everyone ordered one dish, and I had ordered two meals, but they were both incredible. So if you do want to taste multiple items on the menu, make sure to inform them, if you want them at the same time. Finding it is a bit difficult as the entrance is not located on the main Street, but you have to walk through an alleyway. Hover the food was amazing and we will be definitely going back, the only question is, do I get all the things i want to try, or the stuff I tried and enjoyed already? Or do I go multiple times to try both?

Kaitlyn Auger

Went on a Sunday night and everything was amazing. The server was extremely kind and he was very attentive. The flavors in everything were perfect. The best stroganoff I’ve ever had. The ambience is a really great vibe. Can’t wait to go back.

Vesna Simões

We loved everything about this place . The food was amazing and we had the opportunity to try some beers and vodkas that you won’t be able to find anywhere else right now. Our server/bartender was so kind and professional, his name was Sergey . We can’t wait to come back !

Justyn Moore

A nice vibe and great Eastern European food. Was a little quiet but it picked up later in the Thursday night we went. My Chicken Kiev was great but the Honey Cake was fantastic.

Went on a Sunday night and everything was amazing. The server was extremely kind and he was very attentive. The flavors in everything were perfect. The best stroganoff I’ve ever had. The ambience is a really great vibe. Can’t wait to go back.

We went there cause my sister and brother in law, had gone to a Russian birthday party held there a while ago and they really enjoyed the food served there, so they arranged for us to meet them there for brunch. They told us that up into 4pm they only have the brunch menu to order, but checked with the chef(s), and there were a certain amount of items we could order from the lunch menu. Almost everyone ordered from the brunch menu but I loved the variety available on their lunch menu as well, so we will have to go back there after 4pm some day. I got the coconut produce and the Russian pancakes (oladushki) and both were incredible. The only downside was that they brought me the pancakes late as they thought I wanted it as a second meal, because everyone ordered one dish, and I had ordered two meals, but they were both incredible. So if you do want to taste multiple items on the menu, make sure to inform them, if you want them at the same time. Finding it is a bit difficult as the entrance is not located on the main Street, but you have to walk through an alleyway. Hover the food was amazing and we will be definitely going back, the only question is, do I get all the things i want to try, or the stuff I tried and enjoyed already? Or do I go multiple times to try both?

+1

We came here for the event on Friday with my friends, and it was a blast! Thanks so much for hosting us tonight. The food is amazing, stuff is very friendly and the atmosphere is very welcoming as well. Come check it out!

Amazing atmosphere! Upon walking in my colleague and I were warmly greeted by staff. It felt as if I was in Eastern Europe enjoying heritage cuisine. The owner came greeted us at our table. Warm vibes & great food. Looking forward to my next visit!

The borscht with a side of horseradish infused vodka is delicious! You have to get this…I wish they sold it in massive to go pots. Great for chilly weather and to keep your iron count up. If you’re not familiar with the Newton Centre area it might be hard for you to find, so I’ve added pictures to help orient people. Plenty of parking in the Langley Lot (formerly Newton Centre Triangle Public Parking Lot), especially in the evenings and on weekends. Plenty of street parking, too.

Eastern European food, especially good Eastern European food, is hard to come by. Café St. Petersburg has been on my list for a couple of years, and I’m glad I finally made the trip. Everything from the service to the complimentary borodinsky bread (which I’ve now developed a love for) the entrées has been excellent. The friendly staff are very happy to answer any questions about the menu, and they know what to recommend if you have any hesitations on what to order.

This is an excellent spot to try some Eastern European or mostly Russian food in the heart of newton. Parking can be tricky with all that’s happening in the Langley lot and surroundings and it’s not so easy to find the entrance - the new management has done some work to make it easier to find but it could be easier if there was some more signs for first time visitors. Once you are in - the ambiance is a but “cavern-like” but the service and food will more than make up for it. We went back recently as we were told by friends that there is a new management and food and service has become better if anything. It is all true - the same great food and really warm service… The caviar starter and the chicken liver pate - which was served with honey and salt - were great and the drinks are tasty - and strong! (My wife asks for them to make it half strength every time!) Mains were excellent - though the stroganoff was not quite as good as I’ve had before. I don’t know how many times I would recommend a side dish specifically but the risotto side dish is a MUST try. They are also super generous with the bread which was all excellent. Desserts are all generous portions and very good We will be back again and this seems to be one of those management changes that don’t alter the soul of the place.

+6

If you’re looking for real Russian food in Newton, Café St. Petersburg is a must-visit! I tried the Pozharsky cutlets and they were absolutely incredible—crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful inside, and paired perfectly with the sides. It’s one of those dishes that feels homemade yet elevated, truly authentic. What made the evening even more special was the atmosphere. We came for dinner and ended up staying for one of their fun events with amazing live music—the vibe was energetic, welcoming, and so different from anywhere else in the area. Café St. Petersburg is not just a restaurant, it’s a cultural experience. Between the warm service, the unique events, and the delicious menu, this is one of the best places for anyone craving authentic Russian cuisine in the Boston area. We’ll definitely be back!

This restaurant is truly a gem! The food is absolutely delicious and has that comforting, homemade taste that makes you feel right at home. Every dish is full of authentic flavor and prepared with so much care. The staff is polite, attentive, and always makes you feel welcome. On top of that, they often host fun and interesting events, which create a lively and warm atmosphere. A wonderful place to enjoy great food and culture. Definitely a spot I’ll keep coming back to!

Absolutely delicious and authentic experience at Café St. Petersburg in Newton! The vareniki with cherry were incredible — soft, juicy, and perfectly sweet, just like in Eastern Europe. You can really taste the love and tradition in every bite. If you’re looking for authentic Russian and Eastern European food near Boston, this is the place to go. The atmosphere is cozy and elegant, the live music makes it feel like a celebration, and the staff are always warm and welcoming. Highly recommend Café St. Petersburg for anyone who loves traditional Russian cuisine, Ukrainian food, homemade pelmeni, borscht, beef stroganoff, or dumplings with cherries. A true gem for anyone who wants a taste of real Slavic hospitality right here in Newton, MA! 📍Don’t miss their weekend events and live entertainment nights — amazing vibes every time!

Everything was fantastic and accurately made! It's a nice place so I'd recommend dressing up a bit. Food was so good, that I ate and forgot to photograph it ))) Must trys: Varenyki, Pelmeni, Chicken Kyiv, Napoleon cake. I recommend reserving a seat, but I didn't have to wait. I will come here my birthday.

Best Russian restaurant in Boston. Fight me. Everything we had were absolutely delicious. Originally in Brookline, they moved to Newton in 2006, and thriving ever since. Amazingly authentic and delicious Russian food I didn't realize that I need! Love the Borscht, exactly what I wanted and remembered. Rich tomato beefy broth with cabbage and carrots inside. The secret was in the broth, absolutely divine. Pirozhki was also amazing. You choose the different flavors they offer, we got cabbage and egg&scallions. Cabbage filling was flavorful, seasoned with dill, very fresh and vibrant. Egg&scallion filling was also delicious, but cabbage was the clear winner. For main course, cabbage rolls were a must try. This was not like other cabbage rolls you would have had. The meat inside was well seasoned and tender, paired with a rich tomato sauce, full of tomato umami. Oxtail meat pie was also another perfection. Pie crust was buttery and flakey, not a single doughy spot. Tender oxtail meat filling paired perfectly with the mashed potatoes. If you want a Russian meal to remember, this is the place.

+2

The restaurant was amazing! Everything starting with booking table and a very pleasant greeting at the door was great. Service was outstanding, we had a waiter who remembered without writing it down the order for five people including all appetizers ! He was also very helpful with recommending us dishes and drinks , he went above and beyond describing dishes even though it was very busy ! The food was amazing as well , high quality food, fresh , and presentation is outstanding ! My personal favorite was herring with onions and potatoes .

+1

Hi everyone, this isn't our first time here, and we appreciate that this restaurant gets better every time. We noticed the new, very high-quality and beautiful tableware! The food is delicious and beautifully presented! We especially want to commend our waiter Nikolai; he does a professional job, he knows every dish, what it consists of, and he informs us if something is unavailable or delayed! My friends from Canada were very pleased! We definitely recommend it!

We’ve been going to cafe SP for over 20 years. In fact I had my second date with my Russian husband (I’m American) at the original place in Brookline village. We’ve always been loyal bc the food was honey and my husband always needed his fix of Russian cuisine. I can’t say how impressed I’ve been by the new owners food!! It seems refreshed and the food is absolutely delicious. From the cranberry infused vodka, Borscht, Blini and finally to the syrnitki (sp?) dessert everything was yum!! Also they have music and great singers on Saturday nights. The waiters are so kind, professional and capable. Just know it’s not usually a quiet place. Russians like to party.

F.P.P. F.P.P.

Hi everyone, this isn't our first time here, and we appreciate that this restaurant gets better every time. We noticed the new, very high-quality and beautiful tableware! The food is delicious and beautifully presented! We especially want to commend our waiter Nikolai; he does a professional job, he knows every dish, what it consists of, and he informs us if something is unavailable or delayed! My friends from Canada were very pleased! We definitely recommend it!

Yan “Mr.video” Shtein

Cafe St. Petersburg is hands down one of the most underrated gems in the Boston area. The food alone is enough to knock your socks off-rich, authentic Russian dishes that are packed with flavor and clearly made with pride. Every bite feels intentional, from the perfectly prepared classics to the bold, comforting flavors you won't find anywhere else nearby. But what really sets this place apart is the nightlife. On Friday and Saturday nights, Cafe St. Petersburg completely transforms. The atmosphere comes alive with energy, music, and a crowd that knows how to have a good time. It's the perfect balance of upscale dining and late-night fun—great for a date night that turns into a night out, or for going with friends and staying longer than you planned. The vibe is warm, lively, and unforgettable. Between the incredible food, strong drinks, and electric weekend atmosphere, Cafe St. Petersburg isn't just a restaurant-it's an experience. If you're looking for something different, exciting, and genuinely memorable, this spot is a must-visit. Highly recommend.

if you want home cooked food. on a friendly environment.. with great prices.. this is the place for russian. Georgian. Ukrainian foods.. it is a large place to have parties.. staff is great.. not a fancy place but that is why you go.. prices are very reasonable.. food is fresh.. it is like grandma is cooking for you.. come home and enjoy here.. they open they are open.. if not they are not.. but if they are there they will cook for you. be nice and they are the best, they have updated their menu and added some wonderful things

+4

Authentic Eastern European cuisines served in a rustic vibe. My friend and I came here a while ago to try authentic Russian fares. As expected, we were the only English-speaking group at the restaurant, but our server was very welcoming and accommodating. It seemed like there were several groups coming in to celebrate special occasions, and we were fortunate to enjoy live piano throughout the evening. We shared a couple of apps and a soup, and I had the sturgeon tzar with Russian kasha for the entrée. Served with a side of sour cream, both the blintze and the pirozhok were good, but the latter pulled ahead as a winner. Wrapped in a crispy baked pastry, the meat pirozhok was very flavorful, and I especially liked pairing it with the traditional beet-based soup - borscht. Sturgeon was also a nice surprise, and I liked that its texture was a bit similar to that of cod. Overall, our experience at Cafe St.Petersburg was definitely far from typical dining experience in Boston. Nevertheless, we really liked the feeling of being transported to a local restaurant in a small Eastern European country, and I would highly recommend giving them a try.

+1

We had the chicken Kiev and the beef stroganoff. Both were fine.

+2

Julie's bites

We had a very nice dinner, a fairly unique experience, authentic Russian cousine. To look loop MomWe started with pirozhki, Russian dumpling, they three kinds and you have to pick one in each order. I suggest ordering one of each kind and splitting. The choices are cabbage, beef, and mushroom. Even those who did not think they would like cabbage, thought it was the best. Borscht and creamy mushroom mushroom soup were served at the same time as pirozhki, and they did go well together. We were also served Russian dark and white bread. We liked both. Chicken kiev and beef Stroganoff were the entries and I liked the beef better. Beware that if you cut chiken kiev it will explode with oil gushing out. The deserts were the weakest course. I was disappointed in Napoleon flavor and texture. Cherry vareniki has a better flavor, tart source was nice. The service was very good, and the general atmosphere was attractive and pleasant. Note that entrance is hidden. You have to go down a narrow path to the back. We could not find it right away. Google navigation kept telling us we passed it both directions until we finally figured it out.

We had a very nice dinner, a fairly unique experience, authentic Russian cousine. To look loop MomWe started with pirozhki, Russian dumpling, they three kinds and you have to pick one in each order. I suggest ordering one of each kind and splitting. The choices are cabbage, beef, and mushroom. Even those who did not think they would like cabbage, thought it was the best. Borscht and creamy mushroom mushroom soup were served at the same time as pirozhki, and they did go well together. We were also served Russian dark and white bread. We liked both. Chicken kiev and beef Stroganoff were the entries and I liked the beef better. Beware that if you cut chiken kiev it will explode with oil gushing out. The deserts were the weakest course. I was disappointed in Napoleon flavor and texture. Cherry vareniki has a better flavor, tart source was nice. The service was very good, and the general atmosphere was attractive and pleasant. Note that entrance is hidden. You have to go down a narrow path to the back. We could not find it right away. Google navigation kept telling us we passed it both directions until we finally figured it out.

+6

I have never been so disappointed with a restaurant until Cafe St. Petersburg. Although it's been one week today that I dined there, I feel like I only just witnessed a tragic accident that called upon all my energy and resources to rectify.. What I look for in a restaurant is do the ingredients, ambiance, and skill level of the dish justify going there? The first one is hard to know until visiting the restaurant, however, I certainly never expected to be served store-bought guacamole and raw baby spinach from a grocery store convenience tub as a side to the blini. The menu said that the salmon in the blini was smoked in-house. If it truly were, they would not have added excess amounts of cream cheese. Oh, I almost forgot to mention the two bisected cherry tomatoes tagging along with the spinach. The capers were not notable. The menu is a la carte, so you must order everything individually. This includes one-third of a cup of unseasoned mashed potatoes for $9.95. The restaurant name suggests the charming, warm atmosphere, of the actual city is what awaits for you inside. This could not be further from the truth. St. Petersburg the city is gorgeous, whereas St. Petersburg the restaurant is a tasteless ambiance with bright white lighting and blue string lights. There's also a room you pass when you check-in with the host, where all occasions are celebrated and inappropriate guests intermingle with restaurant patrons. Looking at the menu ahead of time seeing the prices and a la carte choices, my experience tells me that this is a very elegant restaurant. In reality, however, quality and quantity of the food is nowhere near justified by the high cost. Tasteless mashed potatoes for $9.95? I would expect more than than half of a cup! Potatoes are one of the cheapest things you can buy! The same amount of blueberries, a much more expensive crop, do not cost even close to $9.95 when pureed into a fine dessert! The hostess was very professional and accommodating and the manager, Daria, was lovely and warm. She picked up the slack on tasks that went unnoticed for prolonged periods of time, such as replenishing our water glasses. She offered us your "homemade" bread. It was freezing cold and the butter was too cold to spread. The brown bread was unique and tasty, but the white bread was just a store-bought ciabatta.. The stuffed cabbage was excellent good but a very small portion for the $29.00 price. Each of the four cabbage roles were about one-and-a-half ounces, filled with ground veal and pork. The menu describes the solyanka as "hearty" but it was just water with bits of bacon fat and black pearl olives floating around. The smoky flavor was good, but I could have gotten an truly hearty soup at any one of the restaurants around the corner from Cafe St. Petersburg for the same price. At those other restaurants, I get a soup as my meal! Cafe St. Petersburg is definitely cutting corners on labor by taking a run to the produce aisle for already-made guacamole and raw vegetables that shamefully went directly from container to customer plate. In my experiences, the high cost of an a la carte entree in the price range of St. Petersburg coexists with at least one side dish, as well as decor that is thoughtful and comfortable. This restaurant was too casual for an a la carte menu! I really disrespect places like this because you're milking people for their money. It's expensive to have a restaurant in Newton, but the ones that have stuck around manage to be good and fairly priced. Cafe St. Petersburg is located next to several restaurants and I prefer to have gone to any one of them over St. Petersburg. I am so disgusted by Cafe St. Petersburg. Change the name. In addition, our waiter was fine, but he was also very young and spoke to guests too casually -- Not the vibe we expected or desired. I am a very fair person and I am also extraordinarily disappointed even through today in my experience. It was not just bad, it was a travesty and never before have I felt so stolen from after paying $136.00 for absolutely nothing.

Disappointing. I have not had Russian cuisine for some time and I was looking forward to this meal. The atmosphere was very nice and appropriate for a restaurant that bills itself as "fine dinning". We were a party of 4 and we were pleasantly greeted. We started with a shared appetizer of Savory Blini with House-Cured Salmon which was quite good. Excellent and rich taste with a light, almost airy texture. The salad on the side of the plate was also very good with a nice dressing and a size too generous to be considered a garnish. We were off to a good start. All 4 of us were still reading the menu when the server asked us if we were ready to order. She returned to the table twice more while all or most of us still had our menus in hand and were clearly still deciding. I ordered the Pozharsky Cutlet. I took a couple of bites of one of the 2 cutlets and found that it had a bad taste. It just seemed kind of off as if something had spoilt. My wife had the Beef Stroganoff which she declared was "just okay". I had a taste and I agreed. The mashed potatoes which were served with both of our entrees were good. One of our companions ordered the Oxtail Meat Pie which he enjoyed. He thought that it was good, but not great, and was unhappy with the portion size given the price and as compared to the other entrees. His wife ordered the Carp Cutlets which she also thought were good, but not great. My wife tasted hers and agreed. I ordered the Creamy Barley Risotto with Mushrooms which also had a strange flavor. Not bad, per se, but very over-seasoned. Everyone at the table agreed. One of our companions ordered the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan which came to the table long after our entree's and the other side dish and when it arrived it was the wrong order: the Garlic Roasted Potatoes. The server took it back and said that she would return with the correct order. Her entree was practically finished when the server finally came back and told her that it would be out right away. At this point, it would have been dessert, so she told the server to cancel it. The service was terrible. Our server was pleasant, but it appeared as though she had never been trained. When she brought my entree with one other, she put the first entree down in front of our companion, and then tried to hand me my plate from across the table rather than walking around and placing it in front of me. She was just holding it there so I took it. She placed all of the entrees down on the table without first removing our dirty appetizer plates. Not the worst thing in the world, but awkward and another sign that she was untrained and/or inexperienced. During the entire meal, she never came by to enquire how our meals were, or if we required anything. At the end of the meal when she came to take our dinner plates she did not comment on the fact that my dinner and side were uneaten. She didn't ask if there was a problem nor did she ask if I wanted to take my dinner home. She just took the full plate of food away. The cost of dinner was appropriate for "fine dining", which meant expensive. I expect to pay more at an establishment like this and only remark on the price because everything about our meal was either poor or underwhelming. I did not want to penalize our server, because I felt that the issue was one of poor management and training and that she had not provided such bad service intentionally. I didn't leave my customary 22% - 25% tip, but did leave a tip that was close to 20% which I though was very generous given the circumstances. It was a disappointing evening, especially since I had been so excited to enjoy Russian food again and had enjoyed it in the past. At least J.P. Licks was around the corner so that I could cleanse my palate with ice cream after the meal, however the strange taste of the Pozharsky Cutlet lingered in my mouth for at least a couple of hours after we left.

We came to the restaurant to eat, and we ended up getting charged for our clothes! Instead of greeting guests with respect, the staff made comments about our appearance, which was completely inappropriate and humiliating. This kind of behavior is unacceptable in an establishment that claims to offer good service. The food might have been good, but after being treated like that, no dish will save the experience. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone—respect for customers should be a priority.