Xl Pelmeni - Riga

Easy and fast. They specialize on licking (pumping). many options to choose, they are prefabricated, simply select what they want, get it on a scale and it is ready to eat. the prices are cheap. place looks clean. the few problems I have are with the knödeln themselves, they are overcooked. I think this is because they are made, but have to sit in a warm water for some time. there is not much meat in them, so it is a bit overwhelming overall. I would suggest getting fried instead of putting this problem first. there is no water that is offered to drink, so either they bring their own or get the juice for a price.

Great value basic Latvian “fast food”in the expensive old town! Basically dumplings, soups and salads. You choose what you want, they weighted and you pay!. There are vegetarian dumplings made of cheese or vegetables. The cheese, the only ones fried, ones are amazing! You can add some tomate sauces! Place opens until late but dont expect a fancy place.

Probably cheapest place to eat in the centre of Riga. Self-service. All pelmens on same price per 100g, so you could mix. Additionally they offer 2 different soups and 2 different salads. Service is not the best. Good place to visit if you would like to see post-soviet eating culture or you have big family to feed.

A dumpling bar where you serve yourself and then pay for the food based on weight. Food itself was ok, nothing too exciting, and prices were very reasonable. Good for a quick lunch or a snack during the day.

It's really hard to rate this one. On one hand a really nostalgic place which has been here for a long time and hasn't changed in taste (not that these would be the best dumplings). On the other hand: nowadays the prices are way too high, this ain't a cheap student eat in Old Riga. I can't recommend it for visitors, but locals somewhat love it.