DINING TIPS
- Many restaurants still have dollar prices on their
menus, but with very few exceptions all are now required by law to take payment
in roubles, unless you pay by credit card. Some bigger restaurants now have a
bureau de change either in or adjacent to them.
- Tipping is becoming more common in Russia, but there is no need to do so
automatically unless you feel that the service has been good. Many restaurants
add a service charge of 5%-10% to the bill.
- Alcohol is generally available in all but the cheapest canteens. It is often
available both as full containers and by the measure. Sometimes measures on the
menu are less than the standard amount served, so a glass of beverage can cost
2 to 3 times the apparent menu price. And if you order a bottle, make sure it
is factory sealed.
- In some cafes, you have to order from a menu which is posted at the bar. Pay
for the food in advance and wait for it. In cafes, table service is common, but
not universal.
- In winter, it is normal to leave your coat with an attendant in the cloak
room. In some restaurants a small fee is charged for the privilege.
- In most cafes and restaurants, you seat yourself rather than being shown to a
table.
- In smaller restaurants and cafes where seating is limited, it is customary
for complete strangers to share tables.
- Few establishments have public bathrooms, and those that do rarely advertise
the fact. Some might charge a small fee (around 2,000 roubles) to use it, and
you should ALWAYS carry your own toilet paper with you.