This is the "Old"
Arbat, the theme street for "Olde Rossiya."
Novy Arbat, which has few old buildings, is the next
street over on the left. The purpose of these streets is
to help part the gringos from their Yankee dollars by
having them shop for souvenirs and knick-knacks. The best
of Russian craftsmanship is on display. You can buy
samovars, lace, icons fresh from the factory, and Michael
Jordan matrushka dolls, and if you aren't a Bulls fan,
Shaquille O'neal or Karl Malone versions. I think the
picture accurately conveys the ambience. There, I saw the
only Japanese restaurant that I saw in Moscow, waitressed
by hefty Russian women wearing kimonos. (I did not eat
there.) |