Gina’s Café & Grill
409 Brighton Beach Ave. (Brighton 4th & Brighton 5th Sts.)
Brighton Beach 718.646.6297
Take the F, or better yet the Q, down—all the way down—to Brighton Beach, and you’re in a different world: a world of mobsters, fancy supper clubs, and cheap cars that break down as soon as you buy them. But Gina’s, on Brighton’s main avenue, is more down-to-earth and foreigner-friendly than most of the other bars and restaurants. The service is good, which isn’t always true here or in the Motherland (it’s all part of the charm) and the
varenniki (pies) and other Russian staples hit the spot. The interior is comfy but basic—Brighton Beach isn’t known for its innovative décor, but that’s not the point.
www.ginasnyc.com
Rasputin
2670 Coney Island Ave. (@ Ave. X)
Brighton Beach 718.332.8333
We’re a little afraid to recommend Rasputin because it's just that crazy, but it’s pretty Russian, considering how much Russians love to party. The pricey prix fixe menus include steak tartare, black caviar and softshell crab, but don’t pay for them yourself, get the “businessman” next to you to pick up the tab—just don’t ask where he got all that cash. After dinner, get on the huge dance floor and party it up—but be careful not to set yourself on fire with the flaming torches. The club hosts plenty of concerts, special occasions, and even a Vegas-style cabaret show. You might have a hard time getting home after all the vodka shots you do here, but don’t worry, you can walk it off on Brighton’s famous boardwalk.
www.rasputinny.com
