Nina’s phone number has changed (new number in the photos), but she is still open for business. Her menu is largely the same, and it is all made to go. However, if it’s nice out and she has the time, she may let you dine at the picnic table out front. The interior is permanently closed to visitors. Don’t let that turn you away though, as the food and overall interactions with Nina are an experience alone.
Nice as can be, she kept taking photos, telling stories, and bringing out hearty, delicious dishes one after the next. A proper babushka! She also has reading material on her life and about the establishment to keep you entertained while she prepares your meal.
Do call ahead so she can prep. My wife speaks Russian, but Nina speaks English just fine. Cash is preferred, but she’ll take PayPal for an additional fee.
ginnyh2020
Very delightful experience, worth the drive out there! Absolutely call ahead for reservations, Nina really appreciates it! (907) 235-6867 for reservations. Expect to be there for 2.5-3 hours. Cash only!! Buy a souvenir from her too, she has lots of cool Russian souvenirs, we bought a pack of tea and she dressed us up in traditional Russian clothes and took pictures! You pay for the entire experience including her company as well as the amazing and authentic Russian food.
marla patterson
The visit to this authentic Russian restaurant was absolutely delightful. Apparently, due to a variety of reasons, the restaurant is only open for take-out this year and you're expected to call in orders in advance. We didn't realize this and just stopped by. Despite our unannounced presence, Nina was very welcoming and accomodating. We ordered the chicken and beef pelmeni. Delicious! And yes, Nina came out with tea, bread and dessert trying to upsale (which she was successful at because it was all delicious), it was all part of her charm. I can't say enough about how fun it was to spend time with Nina. We also saw a couple of moose while driving there from Anchor Point.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Adam Peterson
If you want a unique experience on your Homer/ Kenai Peninsula visit, this is the stop. The drive from Homer offers stunning views of Lake Clark Nat’l Park and the twin volcanos from high up in the hills. When you enter Nikolaevsk you will see the historic Church of Saint Nicholas (and potentially some moose crossing the road) which is a great photo stop. The Samovar Cafe sits atop a hill overlooking Iliamna volcano across Cook Inlet. Nina offers a personal dining experience of traditional homemade Russian dishes in a quiet, rural setting surrounded by wildflowers. Don’t expect a polished restaurant experience- this is truly an eclectic, unusual and unexpected treat. You’ll learn about the history of the Russian Orthodox inhabitants that settled this remote town and you can choose to have your picture taken in traditional Russian garb. Pay a visit to the Nikolaevsk Cemetery for more stunning views of the village and volcanos. It was truly unforgettable.
Stephanie S
If you want a unique experience on your Homer/ Kenai Peninsula visit, this is the stop. The drive from Homer offers stunning views of Lake Clark Nat’l Park and the twin volcanos from high up in the hills. When you enter Nikolaevsk you will see the historic Church of Saint Nicholas (and potentially some moose crossing the road) which is a great photo stop. The Samovar Cafe sits atop a hill overlooking Iliamna volcano across Cook Inlet. Nina offers a personal dining experience of traditional homemade Russian dishes in a quiet, rural setting surrounded by wildflowers. Don’t expect a polished restaurant experience- this is truly an eclectic, unusual and unexpected treat. You’ll learn about the history of the Russian Orthodox inhabitants that settled this remote town and you can choose to have your picture taken in traditional Russian garb. Pay a visit to the Nikolaevsk Cemetery for more stunning views of the village and volcanos. It was truly unforgettable.
Qaiss Afrouk
I had a delightful time with Nina. I just wished Nina gave me the food prices prior to serving the food but other than that, everything is great
Russ Stevenson
Absolute tourist trap. Microwaved food in a run down shack with no toilet facilities which I’m not even sure is legal. Save your self the journey.
Kirsten4265AK
Authentic Experience, this was such a fun day trip from Homer. We enjoyed an authentic Russian Experience. Nina is very sweet and loves to share with her guests. Must try the Borsh
Nataliia PF
Don't ever come here! You will save your time and money. You have to try harder to find a place worst. I'd rather eat fast food for the rest of my life than pay a lot of money for her "tea". I hope I will feel ok after this. You will find yourself paying for something even if you didn't want to. Incredible rude with all customers. This dirt inside and disgusting food for the price of an airplane has nothing to do with the old Russian culture. (only with the beggars of the 90s).
Val Afualo Conway
Unfortunately, Nina seems to stumble in her advanced age and the cafe is no longer sparkling and colorful. It is now forlorn and threadbare and Nina has slowed down. Food is terrible although you don’t really go there for the food. The Pelmeni was good but the borsch was made with canned peas and carrots and the sauerkraut was odd. Still an interesting experience especially if you pay through the nose for the dress up experience.
Nataliia Parfireva
Don't ever come here! You will save your time and money. You have to try harder to find a place worst. I'd rather eat fast food for the rest of my life than pay a lot of money for her "tea". I hope I will feel ok after this. You will find yourself paying for something even if you didn't want to. Incredible rude with all customers. This dirt inside and disgusting food for the price of an airplane has nothing to do with the old Russian culture. (only with the beggars of the 90s).
A3221RHromanm
An interesting place in the Russian village of Nikolaevsk in Alaska and Nina is a good person who is trying to make this village more interesting, you can come here and try the food in her cafe, a very cozy place, you can also spend the night there if you need, and most importantly, that you will be there soon bath, it will be cool ? thank you!
Makaela Harder
Nina was a joy to visit! She cares deeply for the experience she provides her visitors. Make a reservation in advance and be open minded. Our meal included handpicked fireweed and raspberry leaf tea, dumplings, sausage, excellent sauerkraut, and a tasty raspberry and chocolate dessert. Thank you Nina!
Vitaliy Zyukin
Nice and authentic Russian kitchen. The host name is Nina. She is really nice and old school Russian woman. Some people might think she is a bit pushy toward buying food and stuff, but this is how authentic Russian people are. I personally like the food and hospitality.
Z8929PKelenah
We were approached by a lady named Nina She insisted that we can't leave before hating something to eat. We had 2 borscht ans à couple of plates with dumplings. One tea and and 4 slices of bread were added. The hands written check was a whopping $100.98. She Kent pressuring us to order move food and offered a tour for $80. She was money driven person,pushy and obnoxious
Nina’s phone number has changed (new number in the photos), but she is still open for business. Her menu is largely the same, and it is all made to go. However, if it’s nice out and she has the time, she may let you dine at the picnic table out front. The interior is permanently closed to visitors. Don’t let that turn you away though, as the food and overall interactions with Nina are an experience alone.
Nice as can be, she kept taking photos, telling stories, and bringing out hearty, delicious dishes one after the next. A proper babushka! She also has reading material on her life and about the establishment to keep you entertained while she prepares your meal.
Do call ahead so she can prep. My wife speaks Russian, but Nina speaks English just fine. Cash is preferred, but she’ll take PayPal for an additional fee.
Very delightful experience, worth the drive out there! Absolutely call ahead for reservations, Nina really appreciates it! (907) 235-6867 for reservations. Expect to be there for 2.5-3 hours. Cash only!! Buy a souvenir from her too, she has lots of cool Russian souvenirs, we bought a pack of tea and she dressed us up in traditional Russian clothes and took pictures! You pay for the entire experience including her company as well as the amazing and authentic Russian food.
The visit to this authentic Russian restaurant was absolutely delightful. Apparently, due to a variety of reasons, the restaurant is only open for take-out this year and you're expected to call in orders in advance. We didn't realize this and just stopped by. Despite our unannounced presence, Nina was very welcoming and accomodating. We ordered the chicken and beef pelmeni. Delicious! And yes, Nina came out with tea, bread and dessert trying to upsale (which she was successful at because it was all delicious), it was all part of her charm. I can't say enough about how fun it was to spend time with Nina. We also saw a couple of moose while driving there from Anchor Point.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
If you want a unique experience on your Homer/ Kenai Peninsula visit, this is the stop. The drive from Homer offers stunning views of Lake Clark Nat’l Park and the twin volcanos from high up in the hills. When you enter Nikolaevsk you will see the historic Church of Saint Nicholas (and potentially some moose crossing the road) which is a great photo stop. The Samovar Cafe sits atop a hill overlooking Iliamna volcano across Cook Inlet. Nina offers a personal dining experience of traditional homemade Russian dishes in a quiet, rural setting surrounded by wildflowers. Don’t expect a polished restaurant experience- this is truly an eclectic, unusual and unexpected treat. You’ll learn about the history of the Russian Orthodox inhabitants that settled this remote town and you can choose to have your picture taken in traditional Russian garb. Pay a visit to the Nikolaevsk Cemetery for more stunning views of the village and volcanos. It was truly unforgettable.
If you want a unique experience on your Homer/ Kenai Peninsula visit, this is the stop. The drive from Homer offers stunning views of Lake Clark Nat’l Park and the twin volcanos from high up in the hills. When you enter Nikolaevsk you will see the historic Church of Saint Nicholas (and potentially some moose crossing the road) which is a great photo stop. The Samovar Cafe sits atop a hill overlooking Iliamna volcano across Cook Inlet. Nina offers a personal dining experience of traditional homemade Russian dishes in a quiet, rural setting surrounded by wildflowers. Don’t expect a polished restaurant experience- this is truly an eclectic, unusual and unexpected treat. You’ll learn about the history of the Russian Orthodox inhabitants that settled this remote town and you can choose to have your picture taken in traditional Russian garb. Pay a visit to the Nikolaevsk Cemetery for more stunning views of the village and volcanos. It was truly unforgettable.
I had a delightful time with Nina. I just wished Nina gave me the food prices prior to serving the food but other than that, everything is great
Absolute tourist trap. Microwaved food in a run down shack with no toilet facilities which I’m not even sure is legal. Save your self the journey.
Authentic Experience, this was such a fun day trip from Homer. We enjoyed an authentic Russian Experience. Nina is very sweet and loves to share with her guests. Must try the Borsh
Don't ever come here! You will save your time and money. You have to try harder to find a place worst. I'd rather eat fast food for the rest of my life than pay a lot of money for her "tea". I hope I will feel ok after this. You will find yourself paying for something even if you didn't want to. Incredible rude with all customers. This dirt inside and disgusting food for the price of an airplane has nothing to do with the old Russian culture. (only with the beggars of the 90s).
Unfortunately, Nina seems to stumble in her advanced age and the cafe is no longer sparkling and colorful. It is now forlorn and threadbare and Nina has slowed down. Food is terrible although you don’t really go there for the food. The Pelmeni was good but the borsch was made with canned peas and carrots and the sauerkraut was odd. Still an interesting experience especially if you pay through the nose for the dress up experience.
Don't ever come here! You will save your time and money. You have to try harder to find a place worst. I'd rather eat fast food for the rest of my life than pay a lot of money for her "tea". I hope I will feel ok after this. You will find yourself paying for something even if you didn't want to. Incredible rude with all customers. This dirt inside and disgusting food for the price of an airplane has nothing to do with the old Russian culture. (only with the beggars of the 90s).
An interesting place in the Russian village of Nikolaevsk in Alaska and Nina is a good person who is trying to make this village more interesting, you can come here and try the food in her cafe, a very cozy place, you can also spend the night there if you need, and most importantly, that you will be there soon bath, it will be cool ? thank you!
Nina was a joy to visit! She cares deeply for the experience she provides her visitors. Make a reservation in advance and be open minded. Our meal included handpicked fireweed and raspberry leaf tea, dumplings, sausage, excellent sauerkraut, and a tasty raspberry and chocolate dessert. Thank you Nina!
Nice and authentic Russian kitchen. The host name is Nina. She is really nice and old school Russian woman. Some people might think she is a bit pushy toward buying food and stuff, but this is how authentic Russian people are. I personally like the food and hospitality.
We were approached by a lady named Nina She insisted that we can't leave before hating something to eat. We had 2 borscht ans à couple of plates with dumplings. One tea and and 4 slices of bread were added. The hands written check was a whopping $100.98. She Kent pressuring us to order move food and offered a tour for $80. She was money driven person,pushy and obnoxious
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