A great spot to start the day. A bit hidden, but possible to find if you want, Druzi (“friends”- Ukrainian) Cafe is situated in one of the old yards of Andriivsky descent, probably the most picturesque and walkable sightseeing area in Kyiv. But not only that: the biggest Kyiv hostel (Dream House) is right above it, in the same house, so you will definitely meet people from even the most unexpected countries, real travellers.

The place itself is very much about simplicity and to make one feel at home. I’m glad when I need to find a place to hide, and I realize I’m close to it. Druzi has a bunch of board games, kickern, books, warm brick walls and used furniture. It’s all a great combination to spend many hours here.

The menu is easy to understand, but big enough to give you choices: of course Kyiv chicken is also on offer here, together with deruny (potato pancakes) and vareniky (like dumplings, only bigger than the usual ones). A tip for crumble lovers: there are a few places to have it, and at Druzi cafe it is always cooked with seasonal fruits and berries.

Now it’s a chain and has two more branches: 3/5 Prorizna, right next to Kreschatik, and 49A V. Vasylkivska street!