Economic pressures drive 5% drop in Moscow restaurant orders
The total number of food service establishments in Russia fell by 3.1% year-on-year this November. Data from Yandex Maps indicates a loss of approximately 3,700 venues, leaving the national total at 115,000.
This downturn marks the first contraction for the sector since 2022. While the industry saw growth of 6.7% in 2023, the current climate of rising costs and high inflation has reversed that momentum.
Sushi and pizza outlets lead the decline
Sushi bars recorded the sharpest decline, with their numbers dropping by 7.5% to roughly 7,000 units. Pizzerias followed with a 6.4% decrease, while standard cafes and restaurants saw more modest reductions of 2.8% and 1.7%, respectively.
In contrast, tea houses emerged as the only growing segment. Their presence surged 2.3-fold, reaching 340 locations nationwide.
Economic headwinds and consumer caution
Industry experts from Tochka Bank and Focus Technologies attribute the slump to soaring operating costs. Rising wages, expensive commercial rents, and increased food prices are squeezing profit margins.
Consumer behavior has also shifted significantly. According to SberIndex, the growth rate of restaurant spending plummeted from 23% last year to just 6.2% in December 2025. In Moscow, order volumes at traditional restaurants fell by 5% in the first ten months of the year.
Long-term outlook remains pressured
Market analysts warn that the contraction is likely to persist. An overheated labor market and the ongoing impact of international sanctions continue to destabilize the sector.
"Sanctions, inflation, and a tight labor market are eroding the economy's foundations," noted industry broker Ruslan Guseinov. He predicts further closures as businesses struggle to balance costs with diminishing consumer purchasing power.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
