Cafe Cossachok Review

Since opening in 1998, Cafe Cossachok has developed a distinctive ambience and a reputation for wholesome Russian food. The menu, which combines Russian, Armenian, Georgian and Ukrainian cooking, dispels fear of a post-Soviet austerity, offering duck and salmon dishes, alongside the signature blintzes (stuffed pancakes).

The borscht starter is a delicious vegetable soup, with beetroot adding a distinctive tang without overwhelming the other ingredients. The Zakuski- a platter of cold appetizers - are a generous and light first course. The Babushka Blintzes are a selection of vegetables wrapped in a pancake and served with an exquisite orange sauce. Hearty and subtle at the same time, they are the ideal food for cold Glasgow evenings that do not sacrifice taste for bulk. The meat Pelmini is a Siberian take on ravioli: although in a smaller portion than the extravagant Blintzes, they are equally filling with a more direct and immediate taste. Pushing on to the desert, the menu offers a range of ice-cream related items. Despite being more generic than the starters and main courses, they are made to perfection and more than satisfy any sugar cravings.

The service is attentive without being intrusive, the decor bright in Russian style. As would be expected in a restaurant owned by the musical genius Lev Atlas, some nights feature live music of an incredibly high standard and there is a small art gallery at the back of the cafe. Cossachok has a selection of vodka and beer that equals any speciality bar, and makes a refreshing change from the generic Glasgow scene, with an attention to detail in both the food and the atmosphere. A unique experience.