Cooperative Cherniy is a small cooperative that four of Moscow’s liberal youth started just a few years ago, when they didn’t even have enough money for an espresso machine. Fast-forward six years later, however, and they’ve recently reopened in a grand new venue, while keeping the contacts to successfully brew Ethiopia Chelchele espresso, considered by many to be the best in town. Beware of the service though- for the few first times you go there, you’ll be looked up and down- until you can join their club.
Coffeemania- the meeting place of well-to-do Muscovites. Their coffee in general is second to none- for example, the cream cappucino is the best I have ever had, not just in Moscow, but anywhere else. Because of that, the espresso is just agreeable, if the tiniest bit over roasted. Espresso-roasted beans can also be purchased
DoubleB is, for many people who consider themselves coffee specialists, but are in reality just snobs, the best coffee chain. The roasts are always fruity, under-done and a little sour, and the service and interiors are on par with Moscow’s best. Also, it’s a big chain, so anywhere in the city you’re unlikely to be more than fifteen minutes away from their coffeeshop, and that’s quite convenient.