+1 312-360-0000
Located in the heart of Chicago’s vibrant downtown, Russian Tea Time Restaurant offers a luxurious and authentic journey into Russian cuisine, perfectly blending tradition with an elegant fine dining experience. Known for its warm, old-world charm and beautifully curated interior, this restaurant invites guests to indulge in a menu that is as rich in history as it is in flavor.
The culinary offerings at Russian Tea Time are exquisitely crafted, featuring iconic dishes that celebrate Russia’s storied gastronomic heritage. The Russian Tea Time Platter for Two is a must-try, presenting a delightful array of classic bites that perfectly balance savory and sweet. The Classic Beef Stroganoff offers tender strips of beef enveloped in a creamy, flavorful sauce that comforts the soul, while the sumptuous Lamb Shank melts effortlessly with each bite, highlighting their skilled preparation. For those seeking a hearty, traditional soup, the Ukrainian Borscht delivers a vibrant, earthy depth punctuated by just the right tang of sour cream.
Dessert lovers will find themselves enchanted by the Medovik Honey Cake, a layered confection celebrated for its delicate sweetness and moist texture, alongside crowd favorites like the flaky Napoleon Bonaparte and luscious Eclairs. Complementing these delights is the signature House Blend Tea or the unique Samovar Service, an experience unto itself, serving fragrant teas brewed to perfection and accompanied by traditional accompaniments. Guests can also explore the spirited side of the menu with a distinctive Stoli Flight, including a pleasantly surprising horseradish vodka recommended by enthusiasts.
The dining atmosphere at Russian Tea Time carries an air of sophisticated warmth. The attentive and knowledgeable staff add a personal touch, intuitively providing just the right portions to ensure a comfortable, unrushed experience. As one delighted guest noted, the service is tirelessly dedicated to meeting—and exceeding—expectations, adding to the seamless enjoyment of the meal.
Many visitors praise the tea services, with one reviewer describing the aroma and flavors of the Earl Grey Lavender Tea as utterly captivating, complemented by generous pot servings and unlimited refills that foster relaxed conversations and shared moments. The food and tea, together, create a sensory harmony that captivates both connoisseurs and casual diners alike.
In essence, Russian Tea Time Restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's a thoughtfully curated experience that transports you to the heart of Russia’s culinary landscape. Whether you’re seeking the depth of traditional soups, the elegance of family-style platters like the Seafood or Vegetarian options, or the simple pleasure of a perfectly brewed pot of tea paired with exquisite pastries, this establishment delivers all with refined grace and genuine hospitality.
If you long for an authentic, immersive fine dining experience with a distinctly Russian flair in Chicago, Russian Tea Time is a destination where every dish tells a story and every visit feels like coming home.
I very much appreciated having the chance to try a little bit of everything and how the staff knew to give the right portion size so it wasn't too much. From scones, to sandwiches to desserts I've never been so delighted to have food that brings gorgeous flavours and of course all staff members work tirelessly to ensure guest expectations are met. I think my favourite out of them all had to be the chicken cranberry sandwich and then out of the desserts I believe it was a lemon cheesecake? I never usually go for lemon as places always overpower it and ruin the balance but this was absolutely perfect. But of course everything else was just as indulging. I do not understand previous reviews that are low rating this place at all. Decor and layout very comforting but oh I was so overjoyed to have discovered tea that did not need added flavour to be better. I'm certain to return to this place to try its main dishes next past the classic tea service. I'm going to miss it once having returned to England! It's worth the price for this traditional hospitality. I paid roughly around fifty but this is without tip, with it were an extra ten.
Honestly had the most amazing experience. I went in on a whim with my bestie. Genuinely one of the best experiences I’ve had in a long time. We didn’t have any food, just drinks. The tea was amazing. Bestie had the house tea which I also tried and it was really good. I had an earl grey lavender tea and they brought out a whole pot of it, which was awesome. We also got unlimited refills for the house tea. For $8 that’s really not bad, especially because it was so unbelievably good. Iverson from Venezuela (not Minnesota) was so awesome I loved him. What a sweet man I adored him so much. Its also my birthday today too and I told him, he brought us out a really yummy chocolate cake with I think cherry syrup? Really good omg so delicious, 10/10 would recommend. He sang happy birthday too and made me feel really happy. He was a joy to talk to and really funny, I loved a lot of the staff. We also both had lavender martinis. Iverson asked us our sweetness preferences which I really appreciated since I have sensory issues with alcohol. Omg he nailed both of our drinks. I definitely prefer to taste the lavender heavily while bestie would rather taste more alcohol. We tried each other’s drinks and I think he nailed both of our drinks to our preferences perfectly. I was so impressed and happy I left a $20 tip. I rarely get good servers at restaurants but Iverson was phenomenal. Also I really appreciated how clean the restaurant was, the music was very pretty. And there was soap in the bathroom, I was very happy about that.
Had an amazing tea service and some side dishes. Everything was delicious. The tea was fragrant and flavorful. The servers were lovely. The have a large menu with with everything from Russian comfort food to caviar and vodka flights. I also recommend the soup!
Delicious and traditional food! The interior is beautiful and the place is very clean. The waiters are professional and polite, and the service feels truly refined. It’s a historic spot with a warm, elegant atmosphere. You can really feel the old-world charm here — everything from the tea service to the presentation of dishes is done with great attention to detail. Highly recommended for anyone who loves authentic Russian cuisine and a cozy dining experience!
One of the most delicious meals I've had in years. The borscht was amazing, and the medovik was absolutely wonderful. The cabbage roll was also good, but the borscht and medovik were above and beyond any expectations I had. I got a flight of vodka, and on my server's suggestion substituted one of them with their horseradish vodka. It was a great suggestion. Fantastic. The tea vodka and coriander vodka were also lovely. Igor was a great server. Personable and helpful. Good suggestions. Very nice atmosphere as well. A bit fancy but relaxed in itself, not stuffy. Wish I lived close enough to be a regular.
We went with a couple of friends and had no expectations. My friend wanted the tea combo, and even though we arrived a bit after it had ended, the waiter was very kind and served us the tea menu anyway. The strogonoff was delicious, and we all really enjoyed our choices. The mini dessert section of the tea buffet was fantastic. It was an excellent surprise!
Every sip of tea and bite of dinner was perfect. Mushrooms and onions, borscht for appetizers, dinner: duck leg, cabbage roll. Berry tea. Came in after a busy day in the city and this homey, cozy place was perfect for a break from the bustling streets. Service was prompt and helpful without being intrusive. Really cool art on the walls, cultural decorations and vintage tea sets on display. Charming ambience, no overhead music, could hear my partner and the server. Duck was tender and juicy, mushrooms were bright and garlicky without being overcooked. We had a reservation and only waited a couple minutes to be seated. Will return for formal tea service during the day!
I have had the best experience at this restaurant. The lamb shank will melt in your mouth. The shareable appetizers are delicious. Great menus and creative.Will get back again. Highly recommend.