The book, based on a large amount of factual material, tells about the history of the formation and development of the phenomenon of “public catering” in St. Petersburg: about restaurants, taverns, tea houses, taverns and other establishments. You will also learn a lot of interesting things about their structure and, of course, about those who worked there. The appendix provides examples of ancient recipes. If you wish, you can easily use them to cook and taste what was traditionally served on the table. The book is richly illustrated and will undoubtedly arouse interest among a wide range of readers.