The concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St. Petersburg suggested Café Singer when asked where the best place for coffee in St. Petersburg is. Located next to Kempinski Hotel at Nevsky Prospect the city’s main street, Café Singer offers a panoramic view of Kazan Cathedral.
Décor and ambience
Café Singer is on the second floor of Dom Knigi bookstore across the street from Kazan Cathedral. The café was completely full when we arrived at 3 pm and the seats near the huge arched windows were taken. Getting a window seat would be the best option if you were to dine at the café.
The café had a mix of locals and tourists drinking coffee, tea or wine on a mid-afternoon. They sell a lot more drinks than just coffee or tea.
Café Singer has Venetian green plastering and antique looking chairs and square and round tables. There is an old feel to it. This unique café is in a building designed by Pavel Syusor for Singer, the American sewing machine company. Singer occupied the building until 1917.
Coffee: Type, price and taste
Since we couldn’t get a window seat, we opted for a quick coffee break instead. That was a great choice since the selection of food is limited to salad, blinis (Russian pancakes), sandwiches and soup. Overall the place lacks luster and service.
Our espresso cost 160 rubles and the macaron was 40 rubles about US$5.50 for both. It came with a glass of water and a bowl of cubed sugar. Café Singer did not disappoint us with their coffee.
How to get there
It is easy to get to Café Singer because everybody in St. Petersburg including tourists know this important thoroughfare of the city. Nevsky Prospect is 2.8 miles and the café is at 48 Nevsky. You won’t miss it because it is across the street from Kazan Cathedral.
Nearest tourist/fascinating attractions
The bookstore offers lots of Russian souvenirs. Remember to check out Kazan Cathedral and Gostiny Dvor at 35 Nevsky, the historical department store. Nevsky Prospect is also a tourist attraction.
Our ratings
Coffee 4/5
Ambience, concept, décor 3.5/5
Note: Definitely visit the coffee for the view.
Information: Cafe Singer
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