Riga’s culinary scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and cafés emerging regularly and bringing fresh ideas, bold flavours and unique atmospheres to the city. In this guide to new restaurants in Riga, we’ve gathered the brightest newcomers on Riga’s gastronomic map - places where tradition meets modern trends and where every guest feels welcome. Discover where to go for a delicious lunch, dinner or a leisurely cup of coffee, and add new experiences to your Riga foodie journey.
Cafe Nostalgia
Café “Nostalģija” is a calm and inviting spot in the heart of Riga, located among the city’s most iconic landmarks and just a short walk from the Opera House.
Here, the evening begins at a slower pace. Before a performance, enjoy coffee, tea or a glass of wine, along with light bites and easy conversations that set the tone for the night. After the show, the atmosphere shifts - the lighting grows warmer, conversations deepen, and the evening lingers a little longer. A pleasant bonus for brunch lovers: late breakfasts are served until 16:00.
“Nostalģija” is a place between moments - where you can pause, feel the rhythm of the city, and let the evening unfold at its own pace.
- Address:
- Aspazijas bulvāris 20
Retro cafe Melodija
Retro café “Melodija” is one of the most colourful and unique spots in Riga, offering a nostalgic journey back to the 1970s and 1980s. The ground floor features a cosy café with classic cakes and pastries, while the second floor is home to the vinyl record store Vinylla.
The interior, music and overall atmosphere create an authentic retro vibe, making it easy to feel as if you’ve stepped into a scene from the past. It’s a great place to enjoy coffee, soak in the nostalgia, and experience a different side of Riga.
- Address:
- Avotu iela 2
SWITCH
SWITCH is a modern all-day breakfast spot where you can enjoy everything from classic egg dishes to hearty sandwiches and popular comfort combinations. A standout favourite among visitors is the steak sandwich, which has quickly become a must-try.
SWITCH blends the concept of a café and a bar, offering not only food but also cocktails and drinks for a relaxed evening vibe. It’s the perfect place to meet friends, enjoy a laid-back breakfast at any time of day, or stay longer as the atmosphere shifts into the evening.
- Address:
- Avotu iela 4
Cuba Coffee Room
Cuba Coffee Room is a lively and modern spot in the centre of Riga, where quality coffee meets all-day breakfast and a light, seasonal menu. Here you can enjoy everything from egg dishes and omelettes to the popular Cuban sandwich, as well as soups, fresh salads, wraps and desserts.
A special highlight is “Coffee Wednesdays”, when your usual coffee break becomes a little more festive - and quite possibly a bit stronger.
It’s a great place to stop by for excellent coffee, a relaxed breakfast or a light meal, as well as to meet friends in a casual and creative atmosphere.
- Address:
- Ģertrūdes iela 19-21
L'ARTISTA
L’Artista, located in Riga’s Old Town, offers authentic Italian cuisine where every meal is prepared with care and respect for tradition. It brings together the flavours of Italy with a welcoming atmosphere, creating a place to enjoy quality food at a relaxed pace.
The menu is based on fresh ingredients and classic recipes, highlighting simplicity and true taste. L’Artista invites guests to unwind, enjoy their meal, and experience the spirit of Italian dining.
- Address:
- Vaļņu iela 25
Garšas namiņš
Garšas Namiņš in Grīziņkalns, located at 66 Tallinas Street, offers a blend of Greek and Latvian cuisine in a simple, homey setting. The chef-prepared dishes are hearty, warm, and affordable, combining familiar flavours with a touch of the Mediterranean.
It’s a place for an easy everyday meal - no fuss, just good food and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Address:
- Tallinas iela 66
Lounge restaurant Popcorn
POPCORN Dinner & Show is Riga’s new answer to nights that feel too quiet for restaurants and too ordinary for bars. It is the first full dinner-and-show concept in the Baltics, where food, music, art, and energy come together.
Inspired by Dubai, New York, Ibiza, and other vibrant cities, POPCORN offers unique performances, concerts, and a special Teppanyaki show led by a chef from Asia. This exclusive experience is designed for just eight guests who book seats at the chef’s table. And above all that, the epic view to marina from the POPCORN terrace makes it the place to be.
POPCORN Dinner & Show - An exclusive dinner & entertainment experience in Riga
Riga’s new answer to nights that feel too quiet for restaurants and too ordinary for bars.
The first full dinner-and-show concept in the Baltics, where food, music, art, and energy come together.
- Address:
- ExPorto, Eksporta iela 1A