Situated in one of the most picturesque corners of St. Petersburg, close to the Summer Garden and opposite the beautiful Stieglitz Academy of Art and Industrial design, Botanika features beautifully designed interiors reminiscent of a classic Parisian bistro. Arguably St. Petersburg's finest vegetarian restaurant, Botanika is also a great place for anyone wanting a light lunch in elegant surroundings, with a menu that ranges from Italy to India (including an excellent Palak Paneer) and features plenty of traditional Russian favourites such as homemade cabbage pirozhki (small fried buns) and classic soups including sorrel soup and vegetarian borscht.
There is outdoor seating in summer, and a special corner for children with cartoons and toys in the non-smoking interior. The staff are extremely friendly to guests of all ages, and the only slight proviso with Botanika is that, unlike many vegetarian cafes, it is definitely not a budget option - portions are not large and the prices are relatively high (falafel in pitta will cost you over $10).