Ogurtsy 

Fontanka River Embankment, 96

• For homely breakfasts in the heart of the city

By the number of times we’ve mentioned this quaint cafe in our articles, you can guess it’s a favorite. And with its philosophy of inclusivity, cozy, heartwarming interior, and delicious vegan meals – it truly is no surprise. A personal recommendation for breakfast here is oladushki (small fluffy pancakes): whether you choose the savory pesto sauce option or sweet cherry jam and home-made Nutella, you will surely indulge your taste buds. Among other breakfast options available all day are veggie casserole, home-made granola, pumpkin French toast, and tofu syrniki. 

Mer Kaffe

Bolshoy Prospekt V.O. 18

• For big-city-life brunches and main character vibes

A part of the ever-growing Bolshe Coffee chain of specialty coffee shops, Mer Kaffe is a hip location in the historic part of Vasilyevsky Island, right next door to Vasileostrovsky Market. You will definitely get to live out your main character energy here, surrounded by other busy people and the expertly chosen playlist. Apart from definitely ordering coffee (served with a cantuccini biscuit!), you can choose from an abundance of breakfast options: eggs – differently cooked and with all kinds of toppings, giant grilled cheese sandwiches with home-made bread, highbrow oatmeal, or syrniki with exquisite toppings. And if you choose to stay for longer, the menu also includes soups and some solid lunch options – as well as yummy desserts.

Характер кофе (Character of Coffee)

Fontanka River Embankment, 109

• For sweet-tooth breakfasts & Scandi-inspired atmosphere

Drop by Характер кофе early on weekends and get a taste of their famous cinnamon rolls with freshly brewed coffee of your choice. You might not always secure a place there, but this coffee shop will definitely get its own special place in your heart – and not only thanks to friendly baristas and freshly baked buns! Check out their grilled cheese sandwich, beloved by our team, if you want a hearty breakfast option, or go crazy with all kinds of desserts, from fluffy cheesecakes to vegan Napoleon cake – the cafe’s central location offers many scenic opportunities for walking off that sugar rush!

Aster

Mayakovskogo St. 23

• For luxurious breakfasts from Pinterest boards

Having boomed on social media a couple of years ago, Aster remains a cherished destination for those times when you want to be just a little extra. Visit them before 2 pm to savor the breakfast menu: fried eggs with toppings, avocado toast, granola, oatmeal, savory bowls, and, of course, early-morning desserts. For coffee, the cafe teamed up with a local roasting company to make a few of their own brews so that you can enjoy a specialty coffee shop experience alongside your lavish meal. At Aster, you will definitely have the opportunity to turn any day into a little celebration of life. 

STIM

Grazhdanskaya St. 13-15

• For a syrniki heaven

Are you a fan of TV series? The team of STIM also loves a good binge-watching sesh – that’s why they have developed 10 different syrniki recipes inspired by their favorite TV characters. Who would have thought there could be versions of these tvorog pancakes made with four kinds of cheese, lemon, and even popcorn?! Specialty coffee is, of course, a must and STIM serves it aplenty, as well as several kinds of tea and even lemonade. And what if even after all those delicious syrniki you are somehow still hungry? On the menu, there are also sandwiches, eggs, and oatmeal – all the breakfast staples. STIM’s other bonus? You get to explore a lively public space with all kinds of shops and even an observation deck!

Civil

Volynskiy Lane 8 / 8-Ya Sovetskaya St. 4 / Bolshoy Prospekt P.S. 71

• For exquisite dishes and unusual flavor combinations

Baked avocado toast, poached eggs with toppings, vegan pancakes with berries and jams, buckwheat or oatmeal as you’ve never tried them before… All this and more can be found at each of the three locations of Civil coffee bar. Pick this place if you want to feel like a busy bee in the big city, elegantly tackling all of your to-dos fueled by chef’s kiss-level food. Though, it could also be a great place to go out with your friends – for instance, to celebrate the end of the exam season once you’ve slayed all your tests. 

If lengthy breakfasts do not fit your busy lifestyle, check out these places for a quick, nourishing bite before classes.