The Gongu restaurant opened in Riga quite recently, but from day one, it became my favorite place. First of all, the price and quality are perfectly matched, especially when compared to other fine dining restaurants in the Baltic countries.
Secondly, the food is simply amazing – every dish is literally a little journey. Fresh fish, vibrant sauces, unexpected flavor combinations – it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
The concept of the restaurant is based on sharing: you choose several dishes from the menu and order them to the table so everyone can try them, just like it’s done in many Asian cultures. The menu does not include the usual rolls or standard cocktails – everything is unique and signature.
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And, of course, the atmosphere is incredible. Gongu is located in a historic building in the heart of Old Riga, with stunning views of the Daugava River.
Historical Building
The building at Palasta 9 has a rich and layered history dating back to the 17th century. Its first owner was a wealthy Riga merchant, Ranenberg. After his death from the plague at the end of the 17th century, the house was briefly left empty.
In the early 18th century, during Peter the Great’s visit to Riga, the house became his residence. The emperor reconstructed it several times to suit his needs.
Later, in the mid-18th century, Baron Münchhausen lived here. It was in Riga that he met his love – Dorothea von Dunte, the daughter of the city judge. After their wedding, the newlyweds made this house their family home.
Over time, the building changed its purpose again: it was reconstructed for the needs of the Dutch Legion, with Bartolomeo Rastrelli overseeing the renovations. On the opposite side of the building was a hanging garden, offering direct access to the city ramparts and views of the Daugava River.
Centuries later, the building was given a new life. The Gongu team spent several years restoring the historical ceilings and brickwork, bringing the building back to life and transforming it into a space with an Asian-inspired style.
The most beautiful restaurant in Riga
I truly believe that this is the most beautiful restaurant in Riga. The space is divided into several zones, each creating its own atmosphere:
- On the first floor, attention is drawn to the historic brickwork and Japanese paintings.
- On the second floor, there’s a DJ booth and a beautiful bar. On weekends, they host live music evenings. For the restaurant opening, musicians from Japan – Asuka and DJ Rena — performed, creating a mesmerizing show for the guests.
- There’s a banquet hall for large groups, with walls decorated with lanterns in the traditional Japanese style.
The main interior element is a gong brought from Bali. Historically, gongs were used in Southeast Asian temples and palaces to gather people, mark important events, and announce celebrations. At Gongu, striking the gong symbolizes the beginning of a special evening and adds a ritualistic touch to the experience.
Gongu Menu
I’m a fan of Japanese cuisine, and I also love South American flavors, so for me, combining these two cultures on one plate is pure genius.
Gongu’s menu is an author’s take on Izakaya-Nikkei cuisine:
- Izakaya – a Japanese style of dining where dishes are served in small portions to share with friends and family.
- Nikkei cuisine originated in the 19th century when thousands of Japanese emigrated to Peru. They brought their culinary traditions, and Peru added new spices and vibrant flavors. This fusion created a unique and exciting style.
At Gongu, both traditions are united in one menu, producing extraordinary flavor combinations.
My favorite dishes include:
- Open rolls and hand rolls with salmon and tuna
- Hamachi ceviche
- Fried rice with eel
- For dessert — hazelnut praline mousse or matcha cheesecake with stunning presentation
Best Cocktails in Riga
All my friends who have been to Gongu agree that this is the best cocktail menu in Riga. The restaurant even received an award for its unique cocktails before its official opening.
Here you won’t find the usual popular drinks, but you can enjoy signature cocktails inspired by Japan and Peru. Each drink takes you on a journey – whether it’s to the streets of Kyoto or a bar in Aguas Calientes near Machu Picchu.
In short, this is the kind of place where you don’t just go to eat, but to savor and enjoy the experience.
Even if a full dinner is beyond your budget, you can still enjoy something new and delicious – just come during the day, order a coffee and an open roll, and enjoy it all for just ten euros.
