Riga Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Riga. Your complete guide to dining in Riga.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Riga! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Riga has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Riga's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Riga like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Riga offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Riga.
Pētergailis, restorāns
Highly rated Restaurant in Riga with 4.7 stars from 2928 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Skārņu iela 25, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Riviera
Highly rated Restaurant in Riga with 4.7 stars from 1144 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 Dzirnavu iela 31, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1010, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Le Dome Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Riga with 4.7 stars from 324 reviews.
📍 Miesnieku iela 4, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Rozengrāls (Vinarium civitatis rigensis)
Highly rated Restaurant in Riga with 4.5 stars from 4581 reviews.
📍 Rozena iela 1, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ala Pagrabs
Highly rated Bar in Riga with 4.6 stars from 8807 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Peldu iela 19, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Baltā Kaza
Highly rated Restaurant in Riga with 4.8 stars from 244 reviews.
📍 Skārņu iela 4, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Domini Canes
Highly rated Restaurant in Riga with 4.6 stars from 1834 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Skārņu iela 18/20, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Italissimo
Highly rated Italian in Riga with 4.7 stars from 2987 reviews.
📍 Baznīcas iela 27-29, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1010, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
Whitehouse
Highly rated Restaurant in Riga with 4.6 stars from 925 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 Tērbatas iela 2, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Forest
Highly rated Restaurant in Riga with 4.4 stars from 772 reviews.
📍 Raiņa bulvāris 21, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Melnā Bite
Highly rated Restaurant in Riga with 4.5 stars from 1873 reviews.
📍 Audēju iela 13, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1010, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Viduslaiku restorāns LĀSĪTE
Highly rated Restaurant in Riga with 4.6 stars from 1046 reviews.
📍 Pils iela 13 un Aklās ielas krustojums, Ieeja no, Ieeja (reāli atrodas) no Aklās ielas, Aklā iela, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Riga.
Riga Central Market
Highly rated International in Riga with 4.4 stars from 53430 reviews.
📍 Nēģu iela 7, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Centrālais Gastro Tirgus
Highly rated International in Riga with 4.4 stars from 1843 reviews.
📍 Centrāltirgus iela 3 k.2, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Kalnciema Street Market
Highly rated International in Riga with 4.6 stars from 1753 reviews.
📍 Kalnciema Iela 35, Zemgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1046, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Farmers Market
Highly rated International in Riga with 4.5 stars from 21 reviews.
📍 Spīķeru iela, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Agenskalns Market
Highly rated International in Riga with 4.3 stars from 8149 reviews.
📍 Nometņu iela 64, Zemgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1002, Latvia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
BURZMA
Highly rated International in Riga with 4.4 stars from 558 reviews.
📍 Audēju iela 16, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Rimi Centrs
Highly rated International in Riga with 4.3 stars from 4026 reviews.
📍 Audēju iela 16, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Vidzeme Farmers' Market
Highly rated International in Riga with 3.4 stars from 1884 reviews.
📍 Brīvības iela 90, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1001, Latvia
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Riga.
Riga Free Tours
Highly rated International in Riga with 5 stars from 3210 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
EAT RIGA
Highly rated International in Riga with 4.5 stars from 20 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Riga Central Market
Highly rated International in Riga with 4.4 stars from 53430 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Free Tours Riga by locals
Highly rated International in Riga with 5 stars from 2092 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Slow Latvia
Highly rated International in Riga with 5 stars from 25 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Discover Latvia Tours
Highly rated International in Riga with 5 stars from 28 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Riga.
Parunāsim kafe'teeka
Highly rated Cafe in Riga with 4.6 stars from 2452 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Mazā Pils iela 4, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Crumble Cake, kafejnīca
Highly rated Cafe in Riga with 4.8 stars from 1383 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Jāņa iela 14, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Rocket Bean Roastery
Highly rated Cafe in Riga with 4.6 stars from 1711 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Miera iela 29/31, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1001, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Innocent Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Riga with 4.6 stars from 1185 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Blaumaņa iela 34-2, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1011, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Bar "Riga Black Magic"
Highly rated Bar in Riga with 4.7 stars from 2197 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Kaļķu iela 10, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Cafeterius Riga
Highly rated Cafe in Riga with 4.6 stars from 456 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Tērbatas iela 45, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1011, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
KALVE Coffee Stabu
Highly rated Cafe in Riga with 4.8 stars from 603 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Stabu iela 38, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1011, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Kofeman Cafe LV / Wine
Highly rated Cafe in Riga with 4.8 stars from 645 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Marijas iela 2, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Riga.
Signature Dish
A must-try Riga specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Riga dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Riga with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Riga specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Riga creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Riga classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Riga specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Riga dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Riga with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Riga specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Riga.
Skyline bar
Highly rated Bar in Riga with 4.5 stars from 6073 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Elizabetes iela 55, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1010, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Bar "Riga Black Magic"
Highly rated Bar in Riga with 4.7 stars from 2197 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Kaļķu iela 10, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Distillers Republic -Local Craft Distillery & Bar
Highly rated Bar in Riga with 4.8 stars from 482 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Vecpilsētas iela 8a, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Andante | Vinyl - Lounge - Bar | OldRiga
Highly rated Bar in Riga with 4.9 stars from 567 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Laipu iela 7, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
The Armoury Bar
Highly rated Bar in Riga with 4.6 stars from 1758 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Vecpilsētas iela 11, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Clayton McNamaras Drinking Emporium - Super Hero's Bar in Riga
Highly rated Bar in Riga with 4.8 stars from 417 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Vaļņu iela 41, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Riga's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Riga vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Riga is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Riga offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Riga specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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