Restaurant Review: Babushka’s (Tampa)

by Anthony Losanno
Babushkas Exterior 3

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The outside looks rather unassuming, but step inside and you won’t feel like you’re still in Florida. Babushka means grandmother in Russian and here it’s like someone’s grandma has just lovingly made you dinner.

Anthony’s Take: Babushka’s feels comforting and cozy. From the throw pillows to the nesting dolls and tons of houseplants everywhere, it’s like you’ve entered someone’s home. The food is also a journey to an Eastern European grandma’s house with hearty dishes. You won’t leave hungry.

Babushka's Dining Room

Decor & Vibe

Babushka’s is bright and open. It has a sense of place and feels far away from the sunny Florida weather found outside. The decor is both authentic and fun. We heard several diners speaking Russian (always a good sign when looking for authenticity).

Food

The menu has a mix of Eastern European dishes with apps, salads, soups, lots of dumplings, and mains.

Babushkas Menu

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We ordered the Samsa, Khinkali, and Chicken Kiev.

Samsa

The Samsa were flakey and filled with cheese. They were huge but quickly disappeared.

Khinkali

Next, we had the delicious Georgian dumplings known as Khinkali. They were filled with beef and lamb.

Chicken Kiev

For entrees, we both had the Chicken Kiev. It was served with a mountain of mashed potatoes and some fresh veggies.

Babushka's Bar

Drinks

There is a full bar with a decent selection of wine and beer (many from Georgia, Lithuania, and Poland).

Neon Sign

In addition to more traditional Russian and Eastern European decor, there are fun touches like this neon sign. Service throughout the meal was attentive and friendly.

Overall Impression:

We live about five blocks from Babushka’s and will definitely be back. I want to try all the rest of the dumplings and the Beef Stroganoff. We enjoyed our meal and are glad we found this hidden gem.

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1 comment

Greg December 20, 2022 - 3:16 pm

Looks interesting, comfort food at a decent price and warm setting

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