Food & Drink

Latvians love to feast on their food and at the same time love to treat their guests with great food. Here are some notable foods and drinks you should try while in Latvia.

Rupjmaize is dark bread made from rye and is considered the staple food in Latvia. It has a unique taste that tastes both sour and sweet. It goes well with cheese, smoked fish, and cold cuts.  When you are in Latvia, start your morning with a breakfast consisting of Rupjmaize with cheese, jam, or other spreads. Enjoying Rupjmaize in the morning will get you a taste of Latvian culture.

If you are craving snacks, nothing can beat Speka Piragi, which are bacon pies. These are savoury pastries filled with bacon, onions, and potatoes. Get these and enjoy them with a beverage of your liking.

When speaking of beverages, Latvia offers a variety of beverages. Among all of these, the Kvass is a traditional Latvian drink similar to beer, which is made from black bread, yeast, and sugar. Since it is a refreshing drink, it is perfect for summer. Apart from this, there is an alcoholic drink called Riga Black Balsam, which is considered the national drink of Latvia. It is made from different roots and herbs like ginger, black pepper, and Valerian. It is often consumed as digestif or mixed with cocktails.

On the whole, Latvia offers a promising cuisine and beverages that every traveller must try. Remember, travel is incomplete without trying the local food.