THE cosmopolitan food offerings of Oxford are about to expand with the city’s first Russian restaurant.

Victoria Tsoy, who was born in Moscow, and her husband Mustafa Barcho, a Kurd, plan to open the Russian House in Cowley Road by August.

The eatery will cater for Ms Tsoy’s countrymen in Oxford – and curious locals.

Twenty-four-year old Ms Tsoy said there were 3,500 Russians in Oxford.

She said: “It’s going to be a lot of work, but there is demand.

“I used to hold Russian dinner parties at another restaurant which were very popular.

“I want to introduce Russian food to all of Oxford, not just the Russian community.

“People don’t tend to think of Russia for its food and I hope the restaurant will change that.”

The menu will feature traditional Russian dishes, such as borscht, kotleti and pelmeni, and popular drinks, including, of course vodka. Dishes from neighbouring Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan will also feature.

Ms Tsoy added: “It won’t be just vodka – there will be a variety of cocktails and other drinks.

“The decor will be authentic but very simple.

“The space is quite small, with only enough for about 10 tables.”

Ms Tsoy and Mr Barcho are carrying out renovations at the venue, which was previously a Polish restaurant.

They hope to be able to offer a three-course meal at the Russian House for about £15 a head.

Student Zhanara Baizharkinova, from Botley Road, was excited at the prospect of a new Russian restaurant.

She said: “I know so many Russian speakers in Oxford who will be happy about this.

“We all miss the traditional foods from home and spend a lot of time going to London to eat.

“It will also be nice to show our English friends proper Russian food.”

Tavourites to be served up at the new restaurant, include: Seld’ pod shuboi Salted herring garnished with layers of cooked grated onions, carrots, potatoes, beetroot and covered with mayonnaise.

Moscow Salad A meat salad with chopped vegetables, gherkins, eggs and mayonnaise.

Goulash A stew of beef and vegetables in a tomato sauce.

Borsh Traditional Russian soup made of prime beef, beetroot, cabbage, carrots, onions, potatoes and tomatoes, served with sour cream and fresh dill Potato Vareniki Potato dumplings served warm with sour cream.

awilliams@oxfordmail.co.uk