Villa Delice

A Russian-French restaurant where stories are told, guests play cards, and "a final drink" is offered – and all of this is intentional.

The building housing the restaurant was completely rebuilt based on a design from 1860 and is a protected architectural monument. The most significant and vibrant intersection of Russian and French cultures occurred in the 19th century. At that time, France was considered the trendsetter of European fashion, and Russia adopted everything. The French language and culture were deeply integrated into Russian society, encompassing the arts, high fashion, the language of diplomacy, and, of course, gastronomy.

History: The hostess lost her house in a card game! We discovered a fascinating historical account about the building where the restaurant is located, specifically about the hostess of this house, Princess Natalia Alexandrovna Vyazemskaya: "Natalia Alexandrovna was first married to Guriev. Her husband was a very wealthy man, but also a gambler who led a reckless life. He loved and spoiled his beautiful wife, but apparently, he didn't pay enough attention to her, and while playing cards, he lost her: she was attracted to Prince Andrei Vyazemsky, and she was attracted to him, which was a disaster for the negligent husband." That's why we decided to play cards with our guests to ignite the passion inherent in the Russian soul! Our artist designed and created special playing cards, completely in line with the concept of our restaurant. The bar menu features only signature cocktails, and guests can even win one from a server in a card game.

Cuisine: We brought several old books and notebooks with recipes from France, which are used to prepare dishes in the Rhône-Alpes, Burgundy, and Provence regions. Our Head Chef has adapted these recipes, incorporating Russian elements while preserving the French charm and aesthetics of the dishes. As for the Russian side of the menu, we offer familiar and comforting dishes that evoke a sense of warmth. How can we not include borscht with braised beef and a shot of vodka, or beef Stroganoff made with venison and cranberries? The menu will feature many interactive dishes that we prepare in front of the guests. And, of course, locally sourced and farm-fresh products from Kostroma and Yaroslavl are the stars of the chef's kitchen.

Bar: We created a cocktail menu based on the traditions of Russian and French culture in the 19th century. Interestingly, starting in the 17th century, France began to shape its image of Russia. In the notes of travelers, there were comments that Russia was lazy, prone to drinking, and barbaric. It was only much later that the perception of Russia as a country with a great culture emerged. The restaurant's bar menu features variations of classic cocktails in the French style. We use French flavors and ingredients, blending them with Russian herbs. And, of course, we have a large and interesting wine list.

Tableware: Unique tableware was created for the restaurant, handcrafted by our friends from a workshop in Yaroslavl. The artisans were inspired by women's jewelry from the 17th and 18th centuries. One of our favorite plates is called "Princess Vyazemskaya's Brooch." Furthermore, our team scoured flea markets in St. Petersburg in search of unusual trays, serving dishes, and other utensils for the kitchen and bar of our restaurant.

Atmosphere: The restaurant has 45 seats. We intentionally created a small restaurant. We pay maximum attention to our guests, and this format allows us to fully realize our vision.