For tourists and visitors to the country, an excursion from Minsk with a visit to Café Shynok is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Belarusian culture — not in a museum, but in a warm, lively, and soulful space. The authentic atmosphere and heartfelt welcome make this café especially popular among those who want not just a meal, but a cultural experience of Belarus.
History of Creation
The idea of creating Café "Shynok" was born out of a desire to revive and preserve Belarusian folk traditions passed down through generations. Its founders aimed not only to feed guests but also to share how Belarusians have celebrated their main holidays for centuries — warmly, joyfully, and with respect for customs.
Zaslavl, one of the oldest towns in Belarus with over a thousand years of history, was chosen as the location for "Shynok." This made the café a perfect stop along the routes of excursions across Belarus, including excursions from Minsk, thanks to its proximity to the capital and historical value. Since its opening, the café has hosted folk festivals, themed celebrations, and tourist groups.
Interior and Cuisine
The interior of Café "Shynok" reflects the style of a traditional Belarusian home. Wooden tables and benches, traditional household items, embroidered towels, clay jugs, a real oven — all of this recreates the cozy atmosphere of a rural house. The space is decorated with handmade stained glass windows that create a play of light and color, especially charming in warm seasons and candlelight.
The cuisine is one of the main reasons why "Shynok" is so popular among tourists and food lovers. Here you can try authentic Belarusian dishes prepared according to old recipes. The café’s chefs are true masters who put their heart into every dish. The menu includes draniki, kalduny, babka, stewed meat dishes, porridges, homemade kvass, and traditional infusions. Special attention deserves the "Krupnik" — an old hot beverage from the 16th century, prepared with more than 20 medicinal herbs, just as it was in the past.
Excursions with a Café Visit
Café "Shynok" is often included in tourist routes and excursion programs across Belarus. Thanks to its location in Zaslavl and its vivid ethnocultural concept, it serves as a logical and tasty conclusion to a rich day of sightseeing. After visiting museums and ancient fortifications and churches, tourists are warmly welcomed at "Shynok" with bread and salt, songs, and a hearty meal.
You can book an excursion with a visit to Café "Shynok" on the website Ekskursii.by. Excursions from Minsk are especially popular, as the trip to Zaslavl takes only about half an hour. This format is suitable for schoolchildren, students, and adult groups looking to combine cultural activities with a delicious gastronomic experience.
