In Russia in the 19th century a certain type of drinking house was established for the more laconic, on-the-go type (generally male) drinker. These were the prototype for what in the Soviet Union would become the ryumochnaya – a humble, self-service drinking house that featured spirits, an assortment of zakuski, primarily in the form of open-faced sandwiches, and perhaps some soups and heartier meat dishes for the hungry passerby.
Here are St. Petersburg's legendary ryumochnye that have been in the city for ages and also newly-opened, stylish places where you can try very rare traditional drinks.