Introduction

There is an old Russian saying that goes something like this: “You can rack your brains, but you can’t beat hospitality!” Odd as the saying may be, it does capture the Russian sentiment toward guests, whom they love to regale with food and drink. As an American living in Russia, I was invited to countless homes. In most cases I hardly knew my hosts, but the moment I entered their doors I became their dorogoi gost’, their “dear guest,” and was treated to all they could lavish upon me throughout the evening. Their hospitality extended beyond the offering of physical sustenance. The Russians love to bestow gifts, and the uninitiated had better be careful not to admire openly anything in a Russian home: within minutes it will be quietly offered along with the food. The gift of hospitality is felt all the more keenly in Russia today, where many people are struggling to buy basic foods. Yet somehow the Russians manage, and it is their greatest joy to present a well-laden table to their guests, especially to those who have come from afar.