Even if you limit yourself to the Old Town, there are so many dining options that you'll be spoilt for choice. You may opt for a US$50 dinner in a stylish high-standard establishment or for an US$8 Latvian experience inside one of the traditional fill-ups. Whichever you choose, dining in Riga is always fun and the atmosphere in the Old Town is always pleasant and relaxing. Besides a top location, Restaurant Piligrims offers all this and more.
This restaurant is located on the big square opposite the east side of Riga castle, the official residence of the President of Latvia. The west side of the castle overlooks the wide Daugava River and Vansu tilts, the big bridge that joins the west and east sections of Valdemara iela. From Dome Square in the Old Town, walk northwest for about 50m along Pils iela until you reach the German Embassy on your left. Continue straight for about 20m and turn right, and after a short distance, you'll reach Castle Square, its central section occupied by a small park. You can't miss Piligrims on the east side of the square, where a vast sun-shaded area is taken over for outdoor seating.
The vast menu has a large selection of grilled meat and poultry dishes. The fish menu is not as large, but perch, trout, and carp, either grilled or marinated, are available. The salad is always fresh, and you can choose between french fries, chips, or mashed potatoes. Italian-style spaghetti, penne, or tagliatelle and pizza with various tasty toppings are also on the menu. If, however, you want to eat a lighter meal, you can choose from a vast selection of mouth-watering soups. The international cuisine offered by Piligrims leaves nothing to be desired, and the portions are generous enough to satisfy any hungry client.
Imported varieties of wines and beers are readily available. A couple of red vintages imported from Italy and Hungary complete the wine menu. For a cheaper option, choose Aldaris Pilzenes or Aldaris Zelta, two top local beer varieties. End up your meal with an exclusive slice of Piligrims hazelnut gateaux or an ice-cream boat with fresh fruit and chocolate.
The spacious and cosy interior, friendly atmosphere, generous helpings, and helpful waiters are Piligrims' greatest assets. Add to these the wonderful setting of the tables outside looking over the Presidential Palace and you'll understand why eating here is really value for money. The only drawback is its popularity; unless you phone beforehand for a reservation, you often have to wait for a table.
Piligrims opens daily from 11am to 11pm. Your dinner is accompanied by live music: pop, classic or jazz, depending on the day when you turn up. Don't expect to pay a fortune for all this; a meal for two complete with sweets and drinks sets you back 8 lats, equivalent to US$25.