Whilst staying in the Lithuanian spa resort of Druskininkai, eating in our hotel was not an option (see review of Regina Hotel).
Whilst not very Lithuanian, our guide book recommended Sicilia, around a 15-minute walk. At 4pm on a sunny Sunday, it was still busy with lunch time diners on the large terrace, but we were allocated the only available table, which was unfortunately in the bright sunshine. As we had to wait for some time for attention, we spotted a table being vacated and moved. The drinks menu was reasonably priced, with a French Sauvignon Blanc for €25, and a carafe of orange-infused water for €1. We opted for olives and were served 12 large black pitted olives with rocket and an orange dressing. We then decided that rather than return in the evening, we would share a Nduja pizza and indulge in a second bottle. The pizza was plenty to share, but I still managed a large single scoop of vanilla ice-cream. The total bill came to €70.60.
The following day, we told our guide where we had eaten, and he asked whether it was the new or the original restaurant. Having realised there were two outlets, we decided to try the second one for a late lunch/early dinner. Once again, there was a huge wooden terrace, but this time overlooking the small river, and as it was Monday, it wasn’t too busy on arrival. We ordered a bottle of South African Chenin Blanc, a remarkable €20, plus lasagne and a Greek salad to share. A complimentary basket of rye bread was provided, and as the lasagne was served with a small side salad, we certainly had our five a day. Once again it was a lovely experience and a similar price.
Whilst in Vilnius, we’d discovered the restaurant chain, Etno Davros, noted for its reasonably priced traditional Lithuanian cuisine. Having found a branch by the lake, I tried mushroom soup served in a bread bun. Whilst it looked relatively small on the menu it was huge. Bearing in mind we’d seen chantarelle mushrooms being sold at the roadside on our journey from Vilnius it seemed very appropriate.
