Soniya

At Soniya, a Russian restaurant in Koishikawa, Bunkyo Ward, diners can settle in over set meals built around borscht and piroshki. The gently simmered borscht carries a wholesome, understated depth coaxed from tender meat and melted-down vegetables, warming the body from the inside out with every spoonful. The freshly fried piroshki bundled into the set offer their own pleasant surprises: alongside classic minced meat, choices include savory-style pumpkin or a sweet smooth red bean paste studded with chestnuts.

Those craving a heartier staple can pair their soup with fragrant rye bread spread with house-made butter, where the bread’s subtle sourness plays remarkably well against the rich broth. Beyond the sets, the menu highlights satisfying à la carte specialties like Japanese Black beef stroganoff, Siberian-style boiled pelmeni dumplings dressed in cream, and pelmeni simmered in a local chicken broth. For a sweet, leisurely finish, consider Russian tea served with strawberry jam, or aladi—warm, freshly fried Russian pancakes paired with fresh cream and jam.

Easily reached after a stroll through the Koishikawa Botanical Gardens and equally welcoming for a quiet solo lunch, Soniya offers an unhurried setting to savor homestyle Russian cooking. Note that payment is cash only, so it is wise to prepare paper currency before heading over.