Today was my second time having Russian food in my life. First time was at some restaurant in DC a decade ago. I've been seeing some Eastern European mukbangs on Instagram and thought the food looked good. I'm all for new cultural experiences. So I found this place on Yelp and thought I'd give Russian food another try. I knew Russian food is simple and clean, and I knew the backstory to the Borsch dish. That's all I really knew lol... when I tell you the flavors shocked me! It was so delicious and flavorful. And yes, the meat tasted high quality and clean as expected. I ordered to-go (Manti and Borsch), and my food was smelling so good in the car. I was nervous about the Borsch. I like beets but not that much. So when I took a sip of the soup, it was tangy and very delicious. I'm so glad I got it and didn't chicken out. It tasted like a good beef soup with a slight beet and tangy taste. Perfect and filling! I will definitely be getting it again. The Manti was also very delicious. At first it didn't seem like a lot, but it's packed with meat. I was stuffed for 4 hours straight. I believe it had parsley, dill, onion, and fennel, but I am unsure of what herbs are native in Eastern Europe and Russia. They also have a mini market full of Russian foods and snacks. I think I saw pickled herring in the fridge which I will go back to buy. I see people eating it online and I want to try it myself. I will definitely be coming back here and may bring my friends. The prices are high, but the meat quality and taste are worth it for me. I may go again tomorrow lol. The space also looked very nice and was clean. Give this place a try! You won't regret it! See you soon, Rus Uz! I think I'm an addict now lol. read more

The food is really delicious and the service is very welcoming, friendly, helpful and nice. We enjoyed it and will be back, recommend.

Wonderful service and delicious food! The highlights were the beef blini appetizer and potato pirozhki, and the plov was to die for, properly made, and so was the sour cream walnut cake. It goes beautifully with a pot of their black tea! We also enjoyed pelmeni, of course, and manti. In the back of the restaurant is a small grocery shop area, which is very convenient as it has a lot of Russian staples, like buckwheat (gretchka), frozen pelmeni, wines and beer selection. Do recommend! read more

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Review for RusUz - Alexandria, VA Where lunch wears a crown and dinner has an accent. I stopped in for a weekday lunch, trading Zoom fatigue for tsar-chic opulence--and let me tell you, RusUz does not do casual. Step inside and you're swept into a time warp of old-world glam: cushy seats, intricate moldings, and table settings so precise you feel like you should straighten your posture just to sit down. I imagined the Russian national anthem playing in the background. We skipped the cocktails (unfortunately professionalism won this round), but our server? Stoic, fast, and clearly a believer in carb diplomacy--he brought us a basket of warm, crusty bread with a perfectly piped swirl of whipped butter that looked like it came from the soft serve machine at Dairy Queen. Now onto the stars of the show: * Samsa - A flaky, meat-filled pastry that eats like a secret handshake between an empanada and a beef Wellington. Comes with a side of dipping jus that's basically a potion that Rasputin himself probably concocted. * Plov - The national dish of Uzbekistan and quite frankly, a dish worthy of its own passport. Think golden rice, shredded carrots, raisins, chickpeas, and slow-roasted lamb--like a rice dish that went to finishing school but still knows how to party. It doesn't just feed you, it narrates a story. * Golubtsi - Tender cabbage leaves stuffed with spiced meat and rice, simmered in tomato sauce, and served with sour cream. It's comfort food with range--earthy, tangy, silky. Rolled as tight as a Cuban cigar--except by Russians. Bonus points: There's a bodega in the back that sells everything from Russian candies to mysterious jarred pickles to other goodies with names you can't pronounce but definitely want to eat. It's like stepping into a Soviet-era snack shop run by a babushka. In short: RusUz isn't just a meal--it's a mood. It's where East meets feast, where every bite has backstory, and where even the cabbage has charisma. read more

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I was visiting my sister and BIL during the winter, and he recommended Rus Uz for dinner. I don't think I ever tried Russian or Uzbek food, but I was intrigued. The Borsch was so comforting and warmed my belly. The Olivier Salad and Vinaigrette Salad were light but balanced. The Manti was very filling, and for someone who doesn't prefer beef often, I thought it was well seasoned- Plus, what Asian doesn't love a dumpling? Not pictured is my BIL's lamb, which he and my mom happily shared just the two of them. Now I have to find an Uzbek or Russian restaurant in Chicago to take them! read more

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I went during restaurant week. Service was great, ambiance was lovely, and food was delicious! read more

Rus Uz - Alexandria - Russian Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Food was amazing and a great atmosphere! Would totally recommend! The service was fast and great! read more

Rus Uz - Alexandria - Beef Stroganoff - Russian Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

I was in the area for work and since my colleagues recommended this place so we decided to check it out. The caveat I'll preface my review with is that I've never had Russian or Uzbek food before, so take this as the review from a Chinese-American perspective, whatever that means. And while I've never had tried this cuisine or have visited Russia before, the place felt authentic and cozy as soon as I walked into the restaurant. It was relatively empty for a Tuesday evening, and our party of 5 were seated at a booth. Immediately several of us had to pull out our phone to look up what certain drinks or items were on the menu, since it had lots of foreign words in a good way -- I really wanted to try all of those non-alcoholic drinks while a colleague ordered a beer that none of us could pronounce. The wait staff was friendly and pronounced words for us at our request. I ended up ordering the lamb shank, which came with rice and veggie on the side. The meat was fall-off-the-bone tender, and the dish was very flavorful. I liked eating the rice with the sauce / broth, though it was a tad bit on the liquidy side for me (and some broth left over instead of getting soaked up after I finished the rice). At the wait staff's recommendation we also tried the honey cake, which was a great sweet way to end the meal. They also gave you a 10% discount card with the check if you wanted to make purchases at the shop attached to the restaurant. I didn't have time to check it out, but hopefully I'll get another chance in the future. read more

Rus Uz - Alexandria - lamb shank - Russian Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

The food is always incredible, and the staff is so kind, warm, and welcoming. I always come for the delicious salmon and tea tray service. We enjoyed our visit again yesterday evening. Also, they are always very accommodating with a place and space for my wheelchair scooter to be parked while I sit and dine. Thank you for being so accommodating! read more

Stopped here after a long day of work and it was just what we needed. This authentic Russian - Uzbekistani restaurant is serving authentic food for the past few years. Food is super delicious. I need to head back there soon to try some other stuff from the menu. We loved the service, it was very attentive and there is a store in the back where you can pick up local groceries. Ambience will transport you miles away and they have large screen TVs to show how they keep the food authentic. read more

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A pleasant surprise to learn that this polular restaurant was an eight minute walk from our hotel. For days we had been feeding my Southern DNA, and this was a chance to nurture my wife's Ukrainian and Hungarian family history. On entering, it felt like we wre visiting an art gallery, and we were quickly dhown to an elegant booth. Donna asked about the large colored jars adorning the bar, and we were told that it was infused vodkas in a variety of flavors, and were were promptly given generous samples of the raspberry version. A great beginning. Our meat filled crepe appetizer was quickly consimed, and I was pleased to choose from a variety of lamb options. Donna had a portion of dolma which, unlike my lamb, did not need to be packed. The finale was a large piece of sour cherry cake, and a very happy and fulfilled exit. A treasure. read more

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One of the best perks of traveling for work is getting to try delicious new foods, and that's exactly what happened when I visited Alexandria and stopped by Rus Uz. I've never tried Russian or Uzbek cuisine but had taken a Russian course where my teachers suggested I try it. The reviews and menu convinced me that Rus Uz was the place to try for the first time and I can't wait to go back when I can!!! We were treated by very friendly waiters - ours had heavy accents and took their time explaining menu items for us, pointing out their favorite food items. They brought bread and butter out before our meals. I was suggested the Plov so I tried it and really enjoyed it! The meat, veg and rice all tasted great. The little tomato salad was important because I found the main dish somewhat dry, so I think a drizzle of yogurt sauce might have helped pull the dish together completely for me. Regardless, I got what I paid for and more and left feeling full and happy. They also have a cute little store attached to the restaurant where you can get treats to try yourself or share with friends and family. Definitely a great place to visit in the Alexandria area! read more

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Dear restaurants of the world - if your menu doesn't list cilantro as an ingredient please do not sprinkle it all over the food that isn't KNOWN to be associated with the dish. Beef stroganoff should not taste like soap. Also the primary flavor of stuffed cabbage should not be cumin. I don't care if you give a discount with proof of having gone to the movies next time we'll go somewhere else because if we wanted Mexican food we would not have gone to a Russian restaurant. read more

Rus Uz - Alexandria - Stuffed cabbage - Russian Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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Excellent! The food was absolutely delicious. They offer some traditional items and also a bit of fusion. The stuffed cabbage, manti (dumplings), and plov (rice with beef and lamb) were all delicious. Love the choices of beer and wine, a little market is attached to buy some goodies if you're in the mood, and easy parking. read more

Great place, though a little off the beaten path. I have an office nearby so when I visit, I've often wondered about this place. Today, a colleague and I decided to go for Restaurant Week. It was fabulous! I had the pirozhki and then the stuffed cabbage. Huge portions -- pace yourself because it isn't the lightest food. I had plenty to take home for leftovers. read more

The beef stroganoff, veal chop, and lamb kabobs were excellent. If you like Russian food the pierogis and beet salad were good. Service was quick and polite. read more

Ordered takeout. It's mid. Not good, not bad. Had the vinaigrette salad. Cabbage rolls and ravioli with cheese and mushrooms. Had a certain tang, but overall, wouldn't order again. Cool to try. read more

Good food, attentive service, and a "fancy" atmosphere -- an unexpected but pleasant surprise right next to the movie theater. The plov (my first time hearing of and eating this dish) was very tasty. A nice meal before a movie! read more

I feel like I love the variety of options here but literally everything tastes like cumin and cilantro. I understand some of the dishes understandably have them, but the pelmeni and stroganoff? It just really was disappointing since I was so excited to see all these amazing staples, but it just really disappointed me since it wasn't really authentic. The honey cake was amazing though and I could easily eat it every day. read more

The lamb chops were out of this world! Baaaa! I could see them now, grazing on grass before they get murdered (if you believe lambs have life in em). Their food is good, it's exceptional. The service is good too all though they treat you a little weird, you know typical Alexandria s***. They have a great beer selection (although mediocre it's still good, like all beer). The people that go there, wow, they must have a lot of money because I barely see them eating anything. read more

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Went here before a film located conveniently next to the IMAX. This was the first Russian food experience I've had, and I quite enjoyed it. Their interior is gorgeous with very fine plating that fits the decor. The waiter I had did an excellent job. I started off with a Moscow Muel and the Samsa appetizer. Drink was balanced (good amount of alcohol). The Samsa wasn't so interesting; nothing in particular I liked about it. They came out with butter/rolls, but it wasn't that great. The entree was Goluptsi which was a very interesting dish. There were quite a few flavours going on. Essentially, it is thin cabbage wrapped around beef in a red sauce with sour cream for dipping. I rather enjoyed it. Both the entree and appetizer came out piping hot. The star of the show for me was the honey cake. One of the best desserts I've ever had. Towering layers of textures and flavors; seems similar to a crepe cake but with more bite. I'd come here just for that dessert. I think I messed up by getting too much beef-centric dishes, but it was a great experience overall. What a gem and so close to the movies. read more

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This was my 1st experience with Russian and Uzbek cuisine. Being a foodie I couldn't pass it up. The food was amazing. Amazing doesn't even come close to how good it was. The staff went out of their way to suggest things that would give me a well rounded experience. They nailed it. If you're in Alexandria near the Eisenhower metro station, you need to check this place out. 5 stars. read more

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I meant to snap a picture of my meal, but I ate it way too quickly! Let me start by saying, my baba used to make most of the dishes on this menu, straight from her kitchen in Odessa. It's rare that anyone can come close to evoking the nostalgia this food brings me. I'm genuinely impressed by the authenticity, the quality, and the speed at which my meal was served. I ordered the pelmeni, and we couldn't resist trying the dessert since they had a special, so we got blini. My husband had the manti. We both devoured our food in a blink of an eye. Honestly, the only place I can think of that comes close to this is Brighton Beach. I can't recommend this spot enough--so much so, we'll be celebrating birthdays here from now on. We're so glad we found it! read more

Rus Uz - Alexandria - My left over Blini- order it you won't be disappointed. - Russian Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

My husband and I had a fantastic experience. All of the food we ordered was great. The waitstaff were very attentive and quick. Highly recommend the Russian Honey Cake to top it off (forgot to take a picture of it) We'll definitely be back! read more

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Phenomenal! Had the pierogies, dolma, mors, plov. Dishes were flavorful, enormous, and delightful. So many more things here to try! read more

Rus Uz - Alexandria - Plov, pierogies, chebureki, mors - Russian Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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In town for a meeting. Found this little gem and could not have imagined such a delicious, unique, warm and inviting experience. Don't hesitate! Wonderful! read more

Went here a few weeks ago with my husband and I can with full honesty say it was the best food I've had in my life! The price for the taste and service is incredibly worth it! Can't recommend it enough! The whole vibe makes anyone want to come back again and again. I know I sure will! read more

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I just don't think their flavors are for everyone. Everything came out just fine, we're not a fan of the seasonings, everything we ordered kind of had the same flavors. read more

It was my first time trying Russian cuisine in the area and I love it! (Approved by a friend from Eastern Europe) Lots of beef and lamb entrees but our favorite was the borsch (soup with vegetables and beef) and manti (beef stuffed dumplings) A very unique ethnic cuisine experience! read more

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I came here with a friend and it was both of our first times. I came here during Alexandria Restaurant week and we wanted to take advantage of it. I ordered the lamb shank and russian honey cake and both of them were phenomenal. The lamb shank was so fresh and didn't have the old taste or smell. It fell off the bone and the vegetables were well seasoned too. After having a fantastic entree, it was time for the russian honey cake aka dessert. The russian honey cake was sweet with a crunch texture outside and the cake was soft, moist, and creamy. The berry drizzle was a bit sour which drove me crazy in a positive way! It had me wanting to lick the plate. Definitely coming back again! read more

Rus Uz - Alexandria - russian honey cake - Russian Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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Want to try some authentic Uzbek or Russian cuisine? You have to try this spot! The food was so hearty and delicious. The service was spectacular, but you have to listen intently because everyone I spoke with had a strong Russian accent which made me feel more like I was in another country and the food I was about to eat wad going to be amazing and it was. They have a huge selection of in-house infused vodkas to choose from. I had the habanaro shot and the mango shot. I wanted to try their sweet and spicy versions. They were both amazing, but be forewarned. If you can't handle the heat, you may want to stay away from the spicier selections. I did feel the place was a bit overpriced. Given the location, which is attached to a movie theater next to a basic strip mall and the waiters were wearing jeans and we had paper napkins, I would expect the prices to be a little less. However, the food was so good I will be back. But I would suggest that the manager upgrade from t-shirt and blue jeans when working. read more

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This place is a personal favorite, as I love eating pelmini, and I happened to be around the area, so I went in to eat something. Food - Great, would highly recommend the pelmini, and the olivier salad Service - Okay Parking - There is a parking lot nearby that you can get your ticket validated by the restaurant There is also a Russian store connected to the restaurant. Overall, this place is great. read more

Rus Uz - Alexandria - Rus uz - Olivier salad - Russian Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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Went to this Uzbekistan restaurant with friends, because they said they wanted to try something new. And it was quite a pleasant experience. The Service was on point. The food was quite expensive but op's to give you plenty of meat on your plate instead rice. I was also able try what my friends ordered and their food was quite delicious as well. The only that was not so tasty was the lamb chops. The ambiance of the restaurant was quite interesting. There were some karaoke being played to live in up the room. There even a little corner store where you can buy all kinds of unique goods and groceries. They do charge a service fee when you go into groups of five or more, I can understand the reasoning behind it, but the same time this information was revealed to us after we got our check. All n all it was a pleasant experience and worth checking out. read more

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Food is great, try the horseradish vodka if you want something interesting. Service always pleasant, ambiance as well. Every time I pass through DC I try to stop here and "poRusUzitsya" - to have some RusUz, for non-Russian-speakers. But guys, please, dial back the cumin!!!!! read more

Was our first time trying this place. Food was awesome and super authentic. Service was very good and the bartender even sent us on the house infused vodka shots that made us want more lol. Very authentic feel inside and even had a small shop in the back with Russian-Uzbek food and grocery. 100% recommend read more

I happened in while waiting for a movie at AMC. Imperial Stout, Honey Pepper Honey Shot, Dumplings. and Sour Cherry Cake. All impeccable! The atmosphere is chill and inviting. Come check this hidden gem out. Definitely coming back. read more

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(4) ~ very good overall food & service. NOTE: Park in the Parking Garage in the same "Town Center building and they will validate it. DRINKS: ** Water (tap) = (4) very good, must be filtered;) ** Kvas (Russian Root Beer) = (4) very tasty, similar to a "flat coke";) FOOD: ** Borsch = (4.25) Very good ** Warm Bread (w. Sour Cream) = (4) very good & free ** Blini = (4) very good with the fresh Sour Cream ** Pelmeni = (4) very good ** Honey Cake = (4) very good & shareable read more

The food and service was amazing.! It's a must stop when you're in Alexandria. You won't be disappointed.!! And figuring out the Russian food was fun coming from someone that didn't really know anything about it. They infuse different vodkas with some really cool things.. it's great! read more

I got the pleasure of going to the place. My first experience and well it was outstanding. The setting was nice chilled and very pleasant. The service was superb. Folks came to the table and willing to assist with the meau, guiding me through recommendations. You got to try the following Chebureki & samsa was moist and I could have had a few more. Definitely a great starter. For the main dish try the Plov and or Shashlyk (my favorite of the two). Nothing like a nice Russian spot to add tea and of course vodka. Try a pot of brewed Russian black tea be sure to ask for the cube sugar. Lol if you love to drink well why not top or start it off with vodka. This spot has different infused vodka. I had the apricot infused vodka. It was goood, you'll want a few more of those ;) To end your meal and get the entire experience end the mean with a napoleon dessert read more

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Came here for post show celebration. The ambience and qualify of food really throw us back to the origin of the cuisine. We were here on a Friday night and the restaurant is not too busy. Fish under coat has beetroot/egg salad on the top and tomato salad with small chunks of herring fish mixed in. Can't have enough of that!!! I got lamb kabob. They gave so much meat (eye balled to be 8oz) the meat is marinated with a home mix of ingredient and grilled slight over medium. The plate is accompanied with simple steamed vegetables and white rice. My bf got beef stroganoff and he enjoyed the rich flavor of the sauce. It's blend of spices, maybe a bit or tomato base and sour cream. He usually doesn't finish the rice half way but he finished all the rice. That should speak to the quality of the sauce. We also got couple of vodka shots. The shot class is super cute! read more

Rus Uz - Alexandria - Fish under coat - Russian Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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