LUXURYCULTURE.COM - Sharing the Art of Living Well

Marina Gisich Gallery

Founded in 2000 by Marina Gisich, an ambitious and art-obssessed young woman from Siberia, this gallery became the city's first sizable contemporary art venue. With an exceptional dual mission that consists of introducing foreign art, design and photography talents like Harri Koskinen and Herve Lewis to the citizens and presenting the best in contemporary Russian artists, from Gleb Bogomolov to Vladimir Kustov, Peter Belyi and Kerim Ragimov, this gallery is the city's unique playground for contemporary art.

Jelsomino Café

Did you know that St. Pete's jet-setters do more than just go to fancy restaurants and Decadence? Their hidden passion is singing. Moreover, in Jelsomino Café, which is frequented by famous Russian singers, you can get a chance to sing a duet with a national celebrity. If singing isn't your thing, Jelsomino's fashionable cocktail menu with Prada, Dior, Etro, and Kenzo blends will keep you from getting bored.

Eliseev Palace Hotel

Opened in 2003 and located in a czarist-era merchant's palace, this club hotel is the epitome of elegance and refinement, offering royal accommodation and service to its guests. Stunning interior design featuring the finest Italian furniture is perfectly complemented by modern five-star amenities. A true taste of luxury from the Russian Empire era.

Renaissance Hotel 6th Floor Bar&Terrace

Located on the 6th floor of the Renaissance St. Petersburg Baltic Hotel, this terrace is one of the most stunning and discreet in town. Locals who know about this secret place come here for 5-o'clock tea or for an evening drink and to relax while contemplating the city's rooftops and the terrific view of St. Isaac's Cathedral.

Il Grappolo

The city's first traditional family Italian restaurant, and one where attention is paid to the tiniest detail. A carefully respected list of rules, including 'No bodyguards allowed' or 'We don't smoke cigars until 11 p.m.,' guarantees top-drawer service and a democratic ambiance, assuring a calm culinary journey through the finest Italian cuisine.

Korovabar

The luxurious interior of this first-ever St. Petersburg steak house is marked by cowhide décor on the walls, and the intimate atmosphere of the WHISKYBAR, not to mention a secret room for a private dinner hidden behind wardrobe doors. Delicious, fresh homemade bread with creamy spinach soup provides a tasty introduction to the restaurant's fine carnivorous cuisine.

Imperial Porcelain

To continue your experience of St. Peterburg's royal lifestyle, shop for exquisite, noble dishware created by the Imperial Porcelain Manufacture, founded in 1744 at the behest of Empress Elizabeth. Its luxurious, recently renovated boutique of fine porcelain showcases unique tableware collections, including those created by Kandinsky, Malevich and Suyetin, along with, of course, the famed Cobalt pattern.

Decadence

In St. Pete's hip night lifestyle, it's not about the place, it's all about the person. Eduard Muradian's Decadence has become a legendary nightspot for the city's bohemian crowd. In his classy and glamorous residence, he always finds new recipes to entertain jet-set aficionados. Isn't it appropriately decadent to have live butterflies for a New Year's party?

Bulthaup Design Gallery

Founded in 1995 as the first kitchen design studio in Russia, in a decade Bulthaup has grown into the first modern design gallery, with multiple showrooms, all conceptually decorated and located along Bolshaya Konushennaya Street. This miniature "design town" that hosts extravagant contemporary art and design shows is definitely worth visiting.

Freud's Dreams Museum

Entirely dedicated to Freud's theories and passions, this incredible museum is an invitation into his inner universe. Opened in 1999, it celebrates the centennial of the first edition of Freud's mythical work "The interpretation of dreams". Because we can all learn from a voyage in the impalpable world of ideas.

Angleterre Hotel

Designed by Olga Polizzi, the Hotel Angleterre holds a discreet charm which, with its cosy rooms make up for this Saint Petersburg landmark. Chosen by reknowed Russian poet Sergei Yesenin as his last days retreat, it is a place to be discovered.

Day&Night

Futuristic design and lush interiors - courtesy of design wunderkind Anton Gorlanov - are just part of the draw to the Day & Night boutique. This unique concept store is the place to discover an amazing palette of carefully chosen avant-garde Russian and international designers fresh off the catwalk, from Balenciaga and Dries Van Noten, to A.F. Vandervorst.

Vanity Opera

The five-story Vanity Opera tower offers the perfect shopping getaway. From accessories to dresses, suits to sportswear, the world's best designers are gathered here to fulfill your ultimate desires. And it doesn't stop there: conclude the experience with a pitstop at their fifth floor spa, or just enjoy the breathtaking view from the louge bar's glass dome.

Hotel Astoria

Upon its opening in 1912, Hotel Astoria was immediately adopted by Russia's high society and aristocrats. It is not only for its lovely location just opposite St. Isaac's Cathedral and just a few minutes away from the Hermitage that we love the Astoria. The beautiful, imposing interiors, the old-fashioned bathrooms, the gentlemen's corner, the entire ambiance takes you on a luxurious voyage back in time.

Mari Vanna

To get into this charming, homey restaurant you need a personal invitation from its closest friends - and a key - but, once in, you are treated like a dear guest, with all the generosity and warmth of the Russian soul and hospitality. In an atmosphere that harks back to the style of multifamily Soviet apartments, traditional Russian and Soviet dishes are cooked by solicitous hostess Mari Vanna from her personal recipes. Go look for a key in Jelsomino Café or GINZA restaurant.

Ginza

Tucked away from St. Pete's crowded and busy center, this 'fireproof' open-air restaurant is still the hottest summer spot. Fully renovated after last year's fire, with an amazing green terrace extension, it continues to deliver delicious Japanese dishes to its fashionable and confident clientele, confirming its status as the best sushi restaurant in town.

More Yachts&Seafood

This fancy seafood restaurant is 'the' place to arrive by yacht - currently the hottest trend in cruising the city. With twenty types of seafood on the menu, not only are you likely to find your favourite dish, it is also the perfect place to watch the sunset.

Il Palazzo

Located in a wing of the Sheremetiev Palace, Il Palazzo has become a hotspot amongst the city's social set. A trend-setter in the northwest region, the restaurant's Sicilian cuisine attracts a cult-like following. The classical-meets-contemporary décor complements its ancient exterior.

Flying Dutchman Fitness Center

On the banks of thr River Neva this legendary phantom ship found her final resting place. On board lies the city's chicest modern Health Club with the latest equipment and unbeatable personal trainers, as well as two upscale eateries. This remarkable vessel stands as an exquisite addition to the city's classic ensemble.

Chastny Club

The city's legendary beauty salon Chastny Club (translation: Private Club) has always kept a low profile. Fully renovated and reopened this month, the address may have changed, but it still remains St. Pete's most exclusive club salon, famous for its service and with the best hairdressers in town.

Roman Holidays

Recently opened, this first-class wellness center offers the very finest in massage, spa and aesthetic treatments. Colorful mosaic decoration with warm lighting ensures an atmosphere of complete relaxation and soothes your body after a long exploration of the city.

Larusse Antique Gallery

A unique antique gallery-boutique where each object reflects a certain time in Russian history. All pieces were acquired from different parts of the country, carefully restored and collected by Larusse's guardian, Mihail Orlov, whose philosophy is about bringing back the art of traditional Russian living in a coherent, contemporary style.

Grand Hotel Europe

The historic beauty and European bent of the northern city of St. Petersburg shines through in this palatial hotel, steeped in history since its creation in 1824 and now the first hotel in Russia to be awarded five stars. It boasts the Europe Restaurant, the finest dining to be had in St. Petersburg, with turn-of-the-century décor. For a cut-above night on the town, stop by the Caviar Bar for its Russian dishes, as well as exquisite caviar and vodka.

Corinthia Nevskij Palace Hotel Health Club

Refresh and rejuvinate the body and soul by taking in the breathtaking view of the city while working out in the deluxe gym on the top floor of the Corinthia Nevskij Palace Hotel, or just relax and enjoy the sumptuous spa treatments for the ultimate in pampering.

Taleon Club Cigar Lounge

Situated in the Taleon Club complex, the Eliseev Palace Hotel's Cigar Lounge is a regular haunt of Russian millionaires and the city's moneyed expats who crave the odd Cohiba or Monte Cristo until the early hours.

The State Russian Museum - Benois Wing

The Benois Wing highlights the country's finest home-grown Masters, from Chagall and Vrubel, to Filonov and more recently, Malevich, in regular retrospectives.

Royal Beach Club

This one stop night spot on Krestovsky island may boast an extensive menu, but the food is not the main focus - it's the aquarium dining tables, complete with live crocodiles that make the diners' jaws drop. Maybe you'll also be lucky enough to secure one of the five private outdoor bungalows for you and your guests. Concerts and world-famous dj sets are a regular attraction so be sure to check out the schedule in advance.

Moskva

Situated on the sixth floor, offering one of the best views of the city, check out it's summer terrace while savouring fabulous European cuisine, but advance booking is vital for this is one of the city's hottest spots.

Ice Bar

Hidden right behind the Kazansky Catherdral this small but trendy ice bar is the main hangout for discovering the best Russian vodkas. The drinks may be served in ice glasses, but the lush vodka cocktails will keep you warm. The perfect remedy for the summer heat.

Bosco Di Ciliegi

Located in a historic building on St. Petersburg's famous Nevsky avenue, the Bosco family boutique is a real jewel amongst the city's luxury shopping spots. An exquisite selection of brands includes ETRO, Kenzo, Moschino, Alberta Ferretti and La Perla.

Babochka Gallery

In this two-story multibrand boutique, everything caters to your shopping pleasure. Fashionable outfits from Emanuel Ungaro, Alessandro Dell'Acqua, Giambattista Valli and Oscar De La Renta, along with designer shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti and Roger Vivier, perfectly blend with store's ravishing interior.

Alexander House

Set in a calm, discreet location on the banks of the Kryukov canal, this charming boutique hotel offers a cozy home-like atmosphere. Named after the world's largest capitals, each of the 19 rooms echoes the particular style and spirit of its "destination".

Kempinski Hotel Moika 22

Set in the heart of the illustrious, elegant area of the Palace Square, this stunning hotel, opened in 2006, occupies a fully renovated neoclassical riverside palace dating back to 1853, designed by Dutch engineer Basil von Witte. Breathtaking views can be enjoyed from the Relaxation area, set on its spectacular terrace, or from the 9th floor Bellevue Brasserie.

Riba

In spite of its name, which translates as 'Fish', this utterly elegant restaurant actually specializes in fine Italian cuisine. It is yet another pearl in the necklace of Italian restaurant group Probka, where, along with the culinary delights, you can also enjoy fantastic panoramic views of the northern capital. The spoon icon on the menu is a sort of teaser allowing you to sample a dish before ordering.

Corinthia Nevskij Palace Hotel

A neoclassical building designed by Arthur Large in 1861 lodges one of the city's first 5-star hotels. Old aristocratic elegance combines with the very latest in comfort and facilities, making Nevskij Palace a true grand hotel in every sense. The rooftop Landskrona Restaurant, named the best St. Petersburg Deluxe Restaurant, boasts an established reputation for its European cuisine, while Vienna Cafe, with its wide variety of tea blends and delicious desserts, creates a relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Valentino

The sole Russian boutique of the legendary Italian couturier, located on the ground floor of the luxury Taleon Club complex, offers exclusive haute-couture dresses, suites and sublime accessories for city's most discerning clients.

The State Hermitage Museum

One of the world's largest and most famous treasure houses, the Hermitage's collection counts over 3,000,000 items and represents an unbeatable reference of the history of world culture from the Stone Age to the 20th century. Along with the Winter Palace, the Czarist main residence, built to the design of Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli from 1754-62, it occupies six stunning buildings forming the city's most remarkable architectural ensemble. Currently undergoing a radical reorganization in collaboration with AMO, the think-tank arm of Office for Metropolitan Architecture, the aim is to turn the Hermitage into a 21st century prototype for museums.

SevenSkyBar

Crowning the seven-story 'Grand Palace', a gallery of luxury boutiques, the SevenSkyBar is a true fashion destination. As well as boasting a DJ the café offers stunning views of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, the Mikhailovsky Castle and the Russian Museum. This posh midtown hot spot offers an exceptional selection of sushi and is the perfect starting point to kick start your exploration of the city's nightlife.

Renaissance St. Petersburg Baltic Hotel

Opened in 2004 by Marriott International this elegant hotel aims to keep its boutique-like atmosphere. Renaissance is a landmark for fine dining, deluxe accommodation and classic architecture situated in the centre of the picturesque area of Isaakievskaya Square. With 102 generous sized and well appointed rooms and an indoor fitness club with two saunas, it is complemented by cutting-edge business facilities. Its discreet 6th Floor Bar and terrace, frequented by trendy locals offers stunning panoramic views of the city's rooftops.

Cafe d'Or

This popular haunt for local fashionistas and shopping aficionados, set in "Grand Palace", was the city's first gourmet boutique and cafe. It's unique deserts must be tasted to be believed.

Bistrot Garçon

Bistrot Garçon is the first eaterie in St. Petersburg serving traditional French cuisine in a true Parisian style. The menu, created by the gifted hands of chef Monsieur Patrick Grandgien is eclectic, served in the stylish and cosy setting of a French brasserie.

Palkin

Founded by the merchant Anisim Palkin in 1785, this classy restaurant has - over its amazing longevity - served the likes of Anton Chekhov, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Pyotr Tchaikovsky and Alexander Block. Fully refurbished in 2002, it serves authentic Russian cuisine and a refined selection of the world's best wines.

Stephen Webster

After the huge success of the launch of his first Moscow boutique in the Ararat Park Hyatt Hotel in 2004, London jewelry designer Stephen Webster, whose clients include Christina Aguilera, David Beckham, Sir Elton John, Jennifer Lopez and countless Russian oligarchs, opened his second Russian boutique, located in the 'Vanity Opera' luxury mall at the end of June 2006.

Terrassa

Opened in July 2007 by Ginza Project this exquisitely elegant terrace restaurant has become a favorite hotspot of jet-set and a regular venue for private parties, fashion events and evening cocktails. Terrassa's main attractions are its open kitchen and a breathtaking rooftop view of St. Petersburg.

Pacha Bridge Lounge

The collaboration between the world-famous Pacha brand and local club promoters gave birth to Pacha Bridge Lounge - a beautiful venue located on Zayachy island, the city's historic birthplace. By day it has a chic, lounge atmosphere and a fantastic fusion cuisine menu, but come the evening it smoothly moves into the realm of upscale party weekend hot-spot.

Gavello

Italian jeweler Rinaldo Gavello opened his first Russian boutique in 2004 on the city's most luxurious street, Mikhailovskaya, right in front of the Grand Hotel Europe.

Le Borshch

Brand-new hot opening of this summer, Le Borshch restaurant is a remarkable add-on to the Fontanka River embankment ensemble, which harmoniously took its place between the crazy Purga Club and the fashionably luminous Georgian restaurant Aragvi. Named after the Russian traditional soup and decorated by the city's famous interior designer Maxim Languev, this hip eatery invites to discover new Russian cuisine in a cosy and mediterranean-like atmosphere.

Veranda More

Seasonal project of the Light Music Productions, this hotspot is the best place for an improvised escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Grab a drink, get yourself a hammock and enjoy the best sunset views. Some evenings feature performances by hip bands such as Oi Va Voi, De Phazz, Nouvelle Vague or Yonderboi.

Aragvi

Opened in summer 2006 under the patronage of St.Pete's jetsetter and promoter Mikhail Orlov, Aragvi restarant instantly became the city's best eatery for Georgian cuisine.

Silk

St. Petersburg's fashionable crowd loves this cosy restaurant not only for its delicious melange of Japanese and European cuisine, simply elegant style, relaxed atmosphere created by candle-light and downtempo background soundtrack, but also for its lovely summer terrace decorated by the famous city artist Yury KutYur, whose artworks are on display in the restaurant, which serves as an art gallery.

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