Pyshechnaya on Bolshaya Konyushennaya: Description

This pyshechnaya, which literally means "donut shop", on Bolshaya Konyushennaya Ulitsa is a legendary St. Petersburg haunt. Established in 1958, this tiny café has been serving up hot fried donuts since the day it opened its doors. The look of the place hasn't changed much since then either, giving it a retro Soviet feel that stands out against its modern restaurant and café neighbors. It is not uncommon to see a line of people around the block waiting to buy a powdered sugar-topped donut (or four) to enjoy with a quick tea or coffee. The space inside the café is usually packed as well, since pyshki are best enjoyed piping hot. As if this kitschy - and delicious - trip down memory lane weren't enough, this pyshechnaya also has another trick up its sleeve. Traversing the small dining room amongst sugar and oil-covered patrons is the café's mascot, its resident orange cat, Ryzhik.