To start with, I'd say that I love lofts. The district around the centre of Moscow used to be very industrial during Soviet times but in New Russia many factories and plants just closed. The outlook of those areas was quite miserable. In the late 2000s everything changed after Vinzavod (former wine plant) turned into a bunch of galleries. In 2009, former Crystal factory turned into "Design factory Flacon".
Instead of constructing new buildings, the owner of this area focused on creating business blocks for design, fashion and architecture. Hipster culture was just rising but the place managed to become one of the attraction points not only with its shops but also with several restos and cafes.
I don't come here often(a bit distant), but this spot is a "must-visit". Let me confess, as a real slowpoke I visited it only in early 2017. Now the territory hosts a few cafes and street-food vans, a number of show-rooms and shops, some ad agencies, design studios and even TV channel Dozhd' (The Rain) - the only Russian TV channel worth seeing (IMHO). This location is also a venue for a few annual events, so don't hesitate to check the agenda or subscribe on the Facebook page to get invites.
In 2017 loft-areas are no surprise in Moscow; there are even better ones than Flacon (Arma is fantastic, Artplay for sure too), but this place remains my topper and the icon that has changed the whole district..
Find your way with 134 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Dizengof99" is an amazing Israeli restaurant that doesn't get exhausted on hummus and falafel. You have to try the breakfast - ideally for two!
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The popular "Danilovsky Food Market" which has existed in Moscow was recently renovated and now it follows European standards: it's become a foodie heaven!
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"Arma Art Cluster" in Moscow is a cool gentrified cluster built on old gas holders. Here's a tip: come on the weekend to enjoy it with fewer people around!
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I'm obsessed with Greek food, and after looking far and wide in Moscow, "Pita&Suvlaki" has become my favorite... I really like their chicken souvlaki!
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"Gorka Park" is a recently renovated park in Moscow that feels like a little piece of Brooklyn! Grab a coffee and a croissant and enjoy the atmosphere...
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"Novaya Basmannaya Street" in Moscow is a street with plenty of impressive mansions! My favorite building on is the Shibaevs' Estate...
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"The Fountain of Arts" in Moscow is a fountain inaugurated in 2006. I really recommend you visit it after Tretyakov Gallery - you'll get inspired!
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"Moscow City" is the city's very own skyscraper district. Here you can find everything that makes life in the big city fun and interesting...
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"Shabolovka Street" is one of my favorite parts of Moscow. Maybe it's because of the atmosphere, Danilovsky Food Market nearby or the radio tower...
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"RAoS Viewpoint" isn't the highest or most spectacular in Moscow, but the views you get here are definitely the most Instagram-worthy...
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"Bro.We" is a small cafe in Moscow with excellent coffee and the people who work there are amazing. I started going there even if it's out of my way...
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"Aquarium Garden" in Moscow takes me back to the pre-revolutionary era. You can find playbills and beautiful fountains and arches deep in the garden...
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