Staraia Tamozhnia (Old Custom's House), Saint Petersburg

Great place! I love it!! In Dallas there're no such restaurants!! I ate like a king, as the furniture seems to have taken in the royal apartments!!

I was visiting St Petersburg with colleagues and had already enjoyed our dinner elsewhere. We went to check out this restaurant by accident for future visits. Super attitude and service. We got awesome review on St Pete, were offered cocktails on the house and for sure will visit this restaurant next time in St Pete!! Super Super great attitude!

Atmosphere was fine. This really is a place of high standards. Live music was also perfect. Inspite of all that you can be relaxed and injoy yourself.

We have been visiting The Old Customs House since it opened in the 1990's and we have always had a great time, including our wedding reception in Dec 1999. Anthony Gear has to be one of the best, and friendliest, restaurant managers in the business. We would recommend the restaurant to all who visit St Petersburg but it is not for those seeking a cheap night. Charlie & Inga Livingstone

The previous poster must have had a really bad day. I've never heard of anyone finding fault the the service, presentation or environment of the Old Customs House. I have eaten there many time since it first opened and feel confident that others accepting my advise will enjoy the almost perfect balance between staff attentiveness, food, decor, and overall dining experience. The jazz combos that typically work there have been learned a lesson that others have not; that dinner music is to compliment conversation and not overpower it. The service quality is due to the masterful British manager who trains his staff to be the envy of every restaurant in the city, attentive but never obviously there. Things get done at the perfect moment without asking or notice. It is expensive but far lower in price than many of the trendy Fusion or hotel restaurants in the city. Some St Petersburg restaurants actually brag in advertising how they are the most expensive in the city or country as if price and quality of dining experience are somehow related. I do not go there as often as I used to due the change in value of the dollar in relation to the Ruble but it is the first place I think of for an important date or event.

Although expensive the service was excellent.The restraunt manager was impressive as were the staff. All friendly and made you very welcome. The food was of good standard but expensive compared to other restraunts however due to the ambiance well worth visiting