I was in the Cathedral Hill neighborhood of St. Paul yesterday picking up a vintage kitchen table, when the overwhelming urge for comfort food and strong martinis hit me. Luckily, Moscow on the Hill is in the neighborhood.

I’ve been hearing about St. Paul’s Russian restaraunt for a few years now, but have never made it over there. Yesterday’s impetus (being in the neighborhood) was nudged gently along by the fact that Moscow won City Pages’ Best Martini honor this year.

City Pages doesn’t often lead me astray, and they weren’t wrong on this one either. I had an Iron curtain — chocolate, vanilla vodkas with a splash of cranberry. My dining companions had equally strong, skillfully crafted vodka drinks, both very much to their liking. Warning: these cats don’t mess around with their vodka. Eat while drinking. Take your time. Or call a cab. I mean, I’m a girl who likes her cocktails, but… well, let’s just say its nice to be surprised by a martini that’s a) not gin and olives but b) still makes me feel like I’m getting 8 dollars worth of drink.

The chicken kiev was hot, plentiful (enough for the SO and I to split) and comforting on one of those minneapolis days where the temperature swings 30 degrees and you aren’t sure if you should bring your suncreen or windbreaker (or potentially both) out with you. Best part of the menu: a quote which refers to the rest of the world bemoaning imclement weather while the Russians call it “a good eating day”. As a native Minnesotan (and foodie), I adore this. Adore it.

I’d also recommend the pickled vegetable platter as a starter. So good - especially the pickled red peppers (though anyone who knows me knows I’m a complete pickle gastronaut, and these guys rank right up there with Town Talk and my great-grandma.) Ooh, or the cured herring. So delicious.

The atmosphere was casual, service was attentive but not overboard. I’d definitely go back. It’s a great place to eat — would also be a great place to start or end an evening with a excellent drink.

Related posts:

1. DUH!
2. Eating & Adventures - Rocking The Eastside
3. Don’t McMansion Me In.
4. We’re a hit!!
5. Possible City Pages Change in Ownership