When planning a stay in Riga, alongside exploring the centuries-old quarters of Old Riga and the city’s renowned Art Nouveau gems, it is well worth including a gastronomic journey in your itinerary. This experience introduces you to the rich flavours and aromas of traditional Latvian food and drink. Each stop along the way reveals part of Latvia’s cultural heritage –from hearty, comforting rural meals to refreshing varieties of beer.
Latvian cuisine is deeply connected to natural cycles and local produce, with a strong emphasis on simple, wholesome dishes. From richly flavoured meat dishes that warm you in winter to fresh vegetables and fish enjoyed in summer, each meal tells a story of fertile Latvian fields, dense forests and the generosity of the Baltic Sea. That is why discovering local cuisine during your Riga city break becomes an experience that allows you to connect with the city on a deeper, more authentic level.
Traditional recipes often feature ingredients such as potatoes, grey peas, cabbage, pork, fish, fresh vegetables and forest produce, creating a diverse and balanced flavour profile. Here are several traditional Latvian dishes well worth trying:
1. Salted herring with cottage cheese
A near-iconic combination in which the saltiness of herring perfectly contrasts with the mild tanginess of cottage cheese. It can be served as a starter or a full main course when paired with warm boiled potatoes. Finely chopped red onions and fresh herbs such as dill and spring onions enhance the flavour and freshness, making this seemingly simple dish a true culinary delight.
2. Traditional blood sausage
A hearty dish with deep historical roots in Latvian rural households. Made from pork, pig’s blood and pearl barley, it offers a distinctive texture and gentle flavour. It is typically served with fried onions and potatoes, accompanied by pickled cucumbers or lingonberries, which add a pleasant sharpness. The blood sausage is not just a fulfilling meal; it is a true gem of Latvian culinary heritage that reflects the lifestyle and traditions of the Latvian farmers through centuries.
3. Roasted pork ribs
Prepared with a carefully selected blend of spices including juniper berries, garlic and thyme, these ribs offer rich aroma and tender texture. During roasting, they are basted with beer and their own juices, intensifying the flavour. They are usually served with golden fried potatoes, onions, bacon pieces and sauerkraut.
4. Grey peas with bacon
A simple yet filling dish traditionally served at Christmas, where the round shape of peas symbolises prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. The peas are cooked with spices and served with crispy fried bacon and caramelised onions – an especially nourishing meal during the colder months.
5. Potatoes baked in embers
Potatoes are a staple of Latvian cuisine and are prepared in dozens of ways and combinations. One of the most distinctive ways of cooking – though less common today – is baking them in embers with their skins on. This gives them a subtle smoky flavour and crisp exterior while remaining soft inside. They are often served with sour cream, cottage cheese and herbs, or as a side dish to meat or fish.
6. Sauerkraut soup
A hearty and warming soup, ideal for cold winter days. The fermented cabbage gives it a bold flavour, complemented by vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and onions. Spices including caraway seeds, bay leaves and black pepper add more depth to the flavour. It is typically served with fresh sour cream and rye bread to make it richer and more filling.
7. Traditional beer
Latvia is known for its long-standing brewing traditions, making beer an essential part of the dining experience. You will find a wide selection, from light lagers to rich, dark varieties. Small regional breweries are particularly noteworthy, preserving traditional methods while experimenting with local ingredients. Latvian beer culture is defined by both diversity and respect for tradition, which makes it an essential part of Latvian culinary heritage.
If you want to experience traditional Latvian dishes in a modern interpretation while sampling a wide range of beers, visit Two More Beers, located in Old Riga just a short walk from Carillon Aparthotel. Alongside popular international dishes, the menu features Latvian classics presented in a creative, contemporary way. The bar offers more than 100 varieties of beer, making it a great choice for enthusiasts.
After a relaxed dinner in Old Riga, it is especially pleasant to return to a place of comfort and calm. Carillon Aparthotel is a modern aparthotel that combines the historic charm of the city with contemporary comfort. Spacious and tastefully designed apartments provide both privacy and convenience, while fully equipped kitchens and thoughtful details ensure a comfortable stay – whether for a short visit or a longer holiday in Riga.
Carillon Aparthotel is an excellent choice for those seeking a hotel in Old Riga, where you can enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere by day and unwind in a peaceful and cosy setting in the evening. Its convenient location allows easy access to the city’s main landmarks and best restaurants, making it an ideal base for a memorable and fulfilling stay in Riga.
