When the Baltic summer sun starts to shine and temperatures rise above 20°C (yes, that’s warm for us!), locals in Riga reach for a refreshing, shocking-pink bowl of aukstā zupa—Latvia’s beloved cold beetroot soup. For visitors, this vibrant dish is a must-try taste of local life. Here’s what makes it special and where you can find it.
💜 What is Aukstā Zupa?
Aukstā zupa literally means cold soup in Latvian. It’s a chilled, creamy, sweet-and-savory soup made from:
Beets – grated and often pre-cooked or pickled
Kefir or buttermilk – tangy and probiotic-rich
Cucumbers – fresh and crunchy
Boiled eggs – chopped in for texture and protein
Dill and green onions – for that unmistakable Latvian herbal touch
Sometimes sausages or ham – though vegetarian versions are just as popular
The result? A creamy, cooling, neon-pink bowl that’s as satisfying as it is Instagrammable.
Photo by Valeria Boltneva: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-beetroot-soup-in-a-white-bowl-17138080/
🇱🇻 Why Latvians Love It
For Latvians, aukstā zupa isn’t just a dish—it’s a summer ritual. Locals eat it during hot spells, often paired with boiled potatoes sprinkled with fresh dill on the side. It’s affordable, easy to make, and incredibly hydrating—a perfect match for Latvia’s short but sunny summer months.
Some families even have their own “secret ingredient”—a splash of vinegar, a spoon of mustard, or a sprinkle of sugar—passed down through generations.
🍽️ Where to Try Cold Beetroot Soup in Riga
If you’re visiting Riga during the warmer months (May to September), you’ll spot aukstā zupa on many menus—especially lunch menus and cafeterias. Try it at:
Lido – A classic Latvian cafeteria chain where the soup is hearty, homemade, and budget-friendly
Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs – Traditional tavern vibes with a modern twist on local recipes
MiiT Coffee – A veggie-friendly spot with rotating seasonal soups
Central Market (Centrāltirgus) – For a more rustic experience, try the soup sold in containers by local vendors
Tip: Don’t let the color scare you—yes, it’s bright pink, and yes, it’s meant to be that way!
Photo by Valerie de Limoges: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-of-pink-food-with-vegetables-on-a-white-plate-4935688/
👩🍳 Can I Make It Myself?
Yes! It’s surprisingly easy and perfect for hot weather anywhere in the world. Here’s a simplified recipe:
Quick Recipe
Grate 2–3 cooked beets
Add 1 chopped cucumber, 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced green onions, and fresh dill
Pour in cold kefir or buttermilk until soup consistency is reached
Season with salt, pepper, and a little vinegar or sugar to taste
Chill and serve with boiled potatoes on the side
Want it vegan? Just use plant-based yogurt or kefir alternatives.
🧳 Fun Fact for Tourists
Many foreign visitors discover this soup through curiosity—and it often becomes their most talked-about food memory. Some even call it “Baltic borscht,” though it’s lighter and colder than the Eastern European classic.
It’s especially popular among Scandinavians, Germans, and Asian travelers, who find it unique yet comforting—cooling for the body and mild on the stomach.
📸 Don’t Forget to Snap a Photo
That bold pink hue makes aukstā zupa a local star on Instagram. If you’re eating it in Riga, tag it with #AukstāZupa, #TasteRiga, or #RigaEats—you might even get reposted by local foodies or restaurants.
Photo by Nadin Sh: https://www.pexels.com/photo/variety-of-soup-dishes-in-cooking-pots-8694621/
Final Scoop
Cold beetroot soup is more than a quirky Baltic dish—it’s a cultural experience served in a bowl. Whether you’re wandering Riga’s Art Nouveau streets or relaxing at your Garden Apartments rental after a long day, a bowl of aukstā zupa is the perfect way to cool down and connect with Latvian traditions.
Planning a trip to Riga?
Follow our blog for more authentic food tips and local experiences. And when you’re ready to book your stay, check out our cozy, centrally located apartments at www.rentalapartments.lv walking distance from all the best eats in town!
