Moscow Restaurant in Beijing bridges cultures with unique Russian delicacies, cultural performances

A Russian restaurant in Beijing with a rich 70-year heritage is fostering cultural connections between China and Russia through its iconic Moscow cuisine.

Once a diplomatic haven, this restaurant has blossomed into a cultural landmark symbolizing the enduring China-Russia friendship. For over seven decades, it's been a cherished destination for Chinese seeking a taste of Russian cuisine, music and art.

"As Beijing's first publicly accessible high-end Russian restaurant, it held a special diplomatic status in its early days, serving mainly political figures, officials, Russian experts, and intellectuals. Over time, it gradually opened its doors to the public. Decades ago, dining here might have cost several months' salary, yet people still queued for the experience," said Luan Yufeng, deputy general manager of Beijing Exhibition Center where the restaurant is located.

The Russian silverware used seven decades ago and the original decorations and culinary methods of the restaurant have offered a nostalgic journey for many older generations.

"Today marks our 45th wedding anniversary, and my husband and I decided to celebrate at the Moscow Restaurant, a place of great sentimental value for me. I first learned of it decades ago but could only afford to dine here till the early 2000s. That first dining experience was splendid, with a grand atmosphere and warm, sincere Russian performers. Since then, I've never been able to forget this place, and we've celebrated many important occasions here," said an elderly customer.

"We have heard so much about this Russian cuisine. Today, we ordered the Moscow-roasted sea bass in milk, the classic capital salad, and chicken rolls. Simple, yet delicious. We'll definitely come again," said another customer who came for tasting the traditional Russian dishes.

Since 2009, the restaurant has also become known for the musical performances of Irina Pratsyuk, who frequently strums her mandolin on the restaurant's stage while clothed in brightly colored traditional Russian outfits.

Performing at the restaurant for over a decade and a half, Pratsyuk has become a fixture, captivating audiences with her fluency in Chinese.

"I feel China is my second home. I want to introduce Russian culture to Chinese people. Most of our band members play traditional Russian instruments. For instance, I play the domra, a three-stringed instrument, which makes a beautiful sound," she said.

Arriving in 2008 as the sole performer, Pratsyuk has championed Russian music in China. Over the years, she has built a band by recruiting musicians from Russia, creating a regular act that brings Russian music to life for Chinese audiences.

"My name is Alexander. I’m from Russia. I play the byan, a Russian folk instrument. I'm so proud I can introduce myself and my culture with my friends to Chinese people," said Alexander Butko, one of the members of Pratsyuk's band.

Moscow Restaurant in Beijing bridges cultures with unique Russian delicacies, cultural performances

On his second official visit to China, Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu Charlot Salwai expressed admiration for China's remarkable ability to balance preserving its cultural heritage with embracing innovative transformation.

Salwai paid an official visit to China from July 7 to 12. During his trip, he toured the southern province of Guangdong and explored the megacities of Beijing and Shanghai. His visit included tours of high-tech companies, a ride on a high-speed train, and a performance of traditional Cantonese opera.

In an interview with China Central Television Network (CCTV) aired on Friday, Salwai recounted his journey starting with a warm welcome that included enjoying Beijing Roast Duck, also known as Peking Duck -- a culinary delight introduced to him by the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu.

"Many had to say. Peking Duck. Because we had it here on our arrival, so it was very tasty. And I understand that the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu brought us to one of the traditional restaurants, small but beautiful," he said. The prime minister sees China's preservation of its culture as a vital lesson in understanding one's roots and the journey to the present day, acknowledging China's efforts to integrate cultural preservation with modernization.

"It's going to be my second official visit to China. I'm always impressed to see big changes and especially innovations made by China and especially the cities. Because a big impression is to see how China continues to maintain and keep its culture. Because I think it's the basis of everything -- to know where you come from and to understand where we are today. I feel that China is doing a lot to maintain its culture, but at the same time, doing, innovating to transform its culture,” Salwai said.

He also emphasized the importance of learning from China's sustainable development strategies.

"Today, it comes from a long way, some hardship, the government, and also the people of China. So, I'm impressed to see what is done, especially how China associates infrastructure development with nature. That's meant to keep, continue to keep the environment. It takes effort with the climate change by maintaining the ecosystem. I think it's something that, for a small country like Vanuatu, is important to learn. So, we are here. I'm here with my delegation to learn," Salwai said.

Vanuatu's PM commends China's cultural preservation, innovation amid fast growth