Prisoner of the Caucasus
36 Prospekt Mira
Cuisines: European
About
Another restaurant named after a popular Soviet film (like White Sun of the Desert, reviewed earlier in this chapter), this one plumbs the cuisines and stereotypes of the ex-Soviet lands of the Caucasus Mountains: Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. People don't come here just for the food but for the wild mountain ambience, which includes caged livestock and waiters decked in capes and daggers. This atmosphere makes it cost more than other restaurants in the same genre. It can be over the top but is fun for large groups or a weekend night out. The extensive appetizer bar is the best way to sample the unfamiliar fare; choose from piles of marinated and fresh vegetables, smoked meats, and spicy salads. The grilled meats (especially lamb) are a specialty. Caucasus wines tend to be sweeter and cruder than most tourists prefer, but if you feel daring, try a Saperavi or Mukuzani, two rich, dry Georgian reds.
