Riga is a city that rewards curious explorers with its mix of medieval streets, artistic heritage, and lively cultural scene. When it comes to dinner experiences, this city offers more than just a meal—it’s a chance to learn about Latvia’s history, arts, and traditions. From a lively medieval banquet to elegant folk performances, each of these tours provides a unique way to enjoy your evening. Personally, we’re fans of the Riga Medieval Dinner for its fun, authentic atmosphere, and the Traditional Latvian Dinner with Folk Show for its vibrant cultural display. But whichever suits your style, Riga’s evening options won’t disappoint.
If you want a taste of history, culture, and good food, these three options cover it all. Whether you prefer a candlelit medieval feast, exploring Latvian art and tasting local liqueurs, or enjoying traditional music and dance in the heart of Old Town, this guide helps you choose the best dinner experience for your stay.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find three distinct dinner tours in Riga, each offering a different flavor of Latvian culture:
- Riga Medieval Dinner (details here) offers a lively, candlelit banquet in medieval costumes.
- Riga: Latvian Art Museum, Dinner, and Black Balsam Tasting (more info) combines art, local drinks, and a self-service meal.
- Riga: Traditional Latvian Dinner with Private Folk Show (see details) provides an intimate folk music performance with a classic Latvian dinner.
1. Riga Medieval Dinner
At number 1, the Riga Medieval Dinner is a fun way to relive the city’s medieval past. This 2-hour experience includes a three-course meal with alcoholic beverages served at a private table, making it perfect for a cozy night out. You’ll be greeted at your hotel and walked to a historic venue in the city center, where hosts dressed in medieval costumes set the scene.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of authentic costumes, medieval-inspired cuisine, and candlelight ambiance. The food includes dishes you wouldn’t easily find on modern menus, giving you a taste of old-time Latvia. Besides the food, the lively atmosphere turns dinner into entertainment, with some fun storytelling and medieval-themed fun. The reviews are positive, with a 4.0/5 rating based on four reviews, noting that it’s a good value for the immersive experience.
This experience is ideal if you’re interested in history or want a memorable, theatrical dinner. It’s not the cheapest option but offers a complete package of ambiance, food, and storytelling. Keep in mind that the dinner is approximately two hours, making it a great option for an early evening activity.
Bottom line: A lively, atmospheric choice that combines history and dining, perfect for those wanting to step back in time and enjoy a hearty medieval meal.
2. Riga: Latvian Art Museum, Dinner, and Black Balsam Tasting
At number 2, the Riga: Latvian Art Museum, Dinner, and Black Balsam Tasting offers a well-rounded cultural experience. This 3-hour tour begins with a guided visit to the Latvian National Art Museum, showcasing Latvian artists from the 19th century to today. The museum visit provides context for Latvia’s artistic heritage and is a highlight for art lovers.
After the museum, you’ll head to a popular self-service restaurant serving traditional Latvian dishes. The dinner includes a variety of local foods, giving you a taste of Latvia’s culinary traditions. The real highlight, however, is the tasting of four different kinds of Black Balsam, Latvia’s famous herbal liqueur. This unique drink has been a Latvian staple for centuries and offers a complex, herbal flavor profile.
With a 4/5 rating, this tour appeals to travelers interested in combining art, local cuisine, and drinks. It’s a bit longer and more comprehensive than other options, making it ideal for those who want a deeper culture. The price is not specified, but it’s worth considering the value given the combination of museum, dinner, and tasting.
Bottom line: A great pick for art and history enthusiasts who also want to sample Latvia’s national drink and enjoy a generous self-serve dinner.
3. Riga: Traditional Latvian Dinner with Private Folk Show
Finally, at number 3, the Riga: Traditional Latvian Dinner with Private Folk Show promises an authentic cultural evening. This 2.5-hour experience includes a two-course traditional Latvian dinner in the heart of Riga’s Old Town. What sets this tour apart is the private folk music and dance show, performed by talented Latvian artists.
During the evening, you’ll learn about Latvian songs and dances passed down through generations while enjoying local dishes that highlight Latvia’s culinary traditions. The private setting adds an intimate touch, making it ideal for couples or small groups looking for a genuine cultural experience.
Although the review rating isn’t specified, the combination of a traditional dinner with a folk performance makes this tour appealing. It’s perfect if you want an evening filled with music, dance, and local flavor in a cozy setting.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a culture with a focus on Latvian folk traditions and a quality dinner.
$254 per person
How to Choose the Right Dinner Experience in Riga
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and the kind of evening you want. If you’re fascinated by history and enjoy a lively, costume-filled atmosphere, the Riga Medieval Dinner offers an engaging, fun experience. For those eager to explore Latvian art, taste local herbal liqueurs, and enjoy a more relaxed, educational evening, the Latvian Art Museum tour is ideal. And if your priority is experiencing Latvian music and dance in a private setting, then the Traditional Latvian Dinner with Folk Show hits the mark.
Consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend on dinner. Booking early is advisable during peak tourist seasons, especially for the more popular or intimate experiences. All these tours are suitable for different types of travelers—whether you’re looking for a lively, immersive evening or a cultural showcase.
Riga offers a variety of evening adventures that go beyond just eating. Each of these tours provides a chance to connect with Latvia’s rich traditions, whether through food, art, or music. For history lovers, the medieval banquet is entertaining and immersive. Culture enthusiasts will enjoy the art museum tour and folk show. No matter your choice, each experience helps turn your visit into a memorable Latvian night out—so pick what suits your style and book early to secure your spot.