Some films leave such a deep mark on the soul that you don’t just want to rewatch them again and again — you want to savor every moment of them in real life. You want to step right into the frame, feel the atmosphere, and let your imagination run wild.
And for all the cinema lovers out there, Kyiv has 10 places that can transport you straight into the world of your favorite movie.
Art Café “Platform 9 ¾”
Where: 19-A Yevhena Chykalenka Street
Opening hours: 10:00–22:00, though the schedule may change due to event bookings or power outages (there is no backup power).
And even though it’s not a secret portal hidden in a wall but just an ordinary doorway, it still transports you into the magical world of Harry Potter. The interior closely mirrors the style of the Gryffindor common room: redwood furniture, candlelight, brick walls, and even paintings straight from the wizarding world.
Here you’ll be treated to Mrs. Weasley’s potatoes, Gryffindor pasta, or Slytherin bacon. And you can wash it all down with drinks for adult wizards, magical elixirs, or coffee potions. So saddle up your Nimbus and head straight into the wizarding world.
Bar “The Cinematographers Party”
Where: 34 Velyka Zhytomyrska Street
Opening hours: Monday–Friday 17:00–23:00, weekends from 15:00.
The bar was founded by film director Roman Zhyrnykh, who brought together his love for travel, cinema, and cocktails. Its name comes from a lyric in Paul Simon’s song I Know What I Know. The interior blends retro furniture, vintage elements, and eclectic details — there’s even a 1971 organ standing right in the main room.
The bar menu features a wide selection of signature cocktails, along with a solid range of dishes in a modern neo-bistro style.
Pub “The Gentlemen”
Where: 11 Sichovykh Striltsiv Street
Opening hours: daily from 11:00 to 22:00.
If you appreciate classic Ukrainian cinema, this restaurant is a must-visit. Its interior recreates the atmosphere of Kyiv in the early 20th century, featuring black-and-white photographs, old movie posters, and heavy wooden tables. The venue includes three separate halls, each with its own unique theme:
The venue’s style is inspired by Guy Ritchie’s films. It has the vibe of a British pub with attitude — a blend of classic elegance and playful, mischievous irony.
There are two separate halls:
- Oak Room — designed in a traditional English style;
- Neon Conservatory — a modern space with billiards, neon lighting, and other contemporary elements.
Here you can enjoy dishes inspired by both American and Ukrainian cuisine. There’s also a beer menu featuring 15 types of craft and draught beer, and of course, a selection of signature cocktails.
Café “Friends”
Where: 11 Obolonska Embankment, Building 2
Opening hours: daily from 10:00 to 22:00.
Generators are available, but during power outages the pizza oven and coffee machine do not operate.
If you’re a fan of the iconic TV show, the moment you step inside this café the famous theme song will start playing in your head, and you’ll get the feeling that Rachel, Ross, Chandler, and the rest of the gang might sit down next to you at any moment.
The café’s atmosphere fully recreates the vibe of the show, and here you can enjoy a variety of Italian and American dishes.
Restaurant “Za Dvoma Zaytsyamy” (“Chasing Two Hares”)
Where: 34 Andriivskyi Descent
Opening hours: daily from 11:00 to 22:00.
If you appreciate classic Ukrainian cinema, this restaurant is a must-visit. Its interior recreates the atmosphere of Kyiv in the early 20th century, featuring black-and-white photographs, old movie posters, and heavy wooden tables. The venue includes three separate halls, each with its own unique theme:
- a hunter’s room;
- a buffet-style hall;
- a merchant’s hall.
You can enjoy classic dishes from Ukraine as well as cuisine from Bulgaria, Moldova, and across Europe.
Dining Hall of the Karpenko-Karyi Kyiv National University of Theatre, Cinema and Television
Where: 40 Yaroslaviv Val Street.
If you study at the University of Theatre, Cinema and Television, a creative atmosphere should follow you even during your meals. The dining hall’s interior transports you several centuries back in time — thanks to the abundance of wood, warm colors, and the high backs of the chairs.
The menu offers a nice variety of dishes at very affordable prices.
Coffee Shop “Espresso Patronum”
Where: 1 Obolonskyi Avenue
Opening hours: Monday–Friday 08:00–21:00, weekends from 09:00.
This themed spot feels like a teleport straight into the world of Harry Potter. Its décor features magic wands, house scarves, brooms, monster books, and even owls. So while you enjoy your espresso, cappuccino, americano, or latte, the feeling that you’ve stepped into a truly magical world grows stronger with every passing second.
Café “Potter House”
Where: 56-A Chervonoi Kalyny Avenue
Opening hours: 08:30–21:00.
This place is a true paradise for fans of the saga. Every detail captures the atmosphere of the magical universe. The café features costumes, film props, and even enchanted books. The walls are decorated with portraits of characters, images of Hogwarts Castle, and even flying brooms.
There’s even the famous Sorting Hat, which every guest can try on. And the menu perfectly matches the magical atmosphere of the place.
Secret Garden Cafe
Where: 17 Bulvarno-Kudriavska Street
If you’re in the mood to relax somewhere with movie-like beauty, this is the spot to choose. Every corner here carries an elegant, cinematic charm. The entire space is designed with a “find the secret place” vibe, so you’ll have plenty to explore while enjoying something from the menu.
And the menu here is quite diverse: all-day breakfasts, plenty of main courses, and a nice selection of cocktails.
Bistro “Tarylka 22”
Where: 22 Mykoly Zakrevskoho Street
Opening hours:
Mon–Fri: 09:00–21:00
Weekends: 10:00–21:00
The combination of a loft-style interior and elements of the film industry creates the feeling that you’re standing behind the scenes of a movie set. This impression is enhanced by shelves of cinema-related books, as well as portraits of Hollywood icons and Soviet-era film stars.
You can also find real vintage cameras here, as well as authentic studio spotlights that are now used as floor lamps. This place isn’t just about good food — it’s also perfect for meetings, getting some work done, or even shooting a few interesting photos.
So, in Kyiv you can discover not only great coffee or unique gastronomy — you can step into a real cinematic universe for a few hours. And if your soul is craving a bit of magic or wonder, drop by for a coffee or lunch inside the “frame” of your favorite film.
Author: Olha Chernova