What are the most creative places in Kyiv (also known as Kiev)? We asked journalist and Ukranian Advertising Coalition CEO Maksim Lazebnik to give us the low-down. It doesn't look like a place where one can easily be bored.
The most creative museum or gallery in your city
PinchukArtCentre is located in the heart of the city, so you always know where to go for inspiration. I enjoy the constantly changing exhibitions and the variety of their format. It's also fascinating that you can somehow become part of the art performance just by walking in. An unusual experience!
The café where you go to read, write or be inspired
bOtaN is the first private library in our city, which makes a difference. It is a combo of books and coffee house. There's no Wi-Fi and it's easy to get lost in your own imagination thanks to the quiet and comfortable atmosphere. The diversity of the free literature is an additional advantage.
A restaurant with a difference
Kanapa is a special restaurant on Andriivskyi descent. I'm amazed by the way Ukrainian dishes meet modernity and fanciness, using technology and even molecular cuisine. This is a new way to experience national recipes.
The most creative neighbourhood
That would be Podil, which includes Poshtova and Kontraktova Ploshcha subway stations. As well as including the most historic and popular spots, it's where creative people gather to spend time together after work or on the weekends. Podil is huge: here you can find places with mystical legends, unbelievably beautiful cathedrals, museums, small cozy galleries, cute stores, bars, stunning views and nature. It is everything in one. My advice is to find a friend in Kyiv who can show you this neighborhood fully. It's worth a visit.
The store you can’t walk past without going in
'Vsi Svoi' is a store on our main street, Kreshchatyk. It is unique for me because it is the place where Ukrainian brands are united. The translation of the name is "Every one is ours" and there always seems to be someone who is waiting for you and wants you to be there. It's a real treasure for those who like street, classic, retro - and in fact for anyone who's into fashion.