Piena

Piena is an Italian pizzeria on Petrogradskaya Embankment in St Petersburg, with a relaxed dining room inspired by an Italian patio. Wooden benches, lantern-style lighting and a shared table give the space a sociable feel, while the overall design keeps to a simple, comfortable style. The open pizza station allows guests to watch the pizzaiolo prepare and bake the pizzas.

The speciality is Roman-style pizza, which arrives in a rectangular rather than round shape. Its base is designed to be light and airy inside, with a crisp exterior. The dough is made with Italian flour, carefully controlled water temperature and a resting period before baking. Pizzas are cooked in an Italian Pompeii-style electric oven with a stone chamber, giving the preparation a visible, informal character.

The menu focuses on Italian cooking, with pizza alongside other traditional and creative dishes. A dedicated wine selection makes the restaurant suitable for a meal built around both food and wine, whether for a casual lunch, an evening dinner or a small celebration. The atmosphere is informal enough for everyday dining but has enough polish for private occasions and group gatherings.

Piena also has spaces suited to hosted events. A private studio is used for culinary workshops and wine tastings, while a greenhouse-style room can accommodate birthdays, corporate occasions and small banquets. These areas add flexibility for groups that need a more structured setting than the main dining room.

Live music forms part of the venue’s programme, with performances that can feature guitar, violin, saxophone or clarinet. Repertoire may include songs in Italian, Spanish, English, Hebrew and other languages. The combination of open pizza preparation, wine-focused dining and music gives Piena a social character without turning it into a formal restaurant.

Piena suits diners looking for Roman pizza, Italian food, wine and an easygoing setting near the Neva. It can work for a meal with friends, a small group occasion, a culinary event or an evening accompanied by live performance.