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The Vilnius Authors/Spotters
About me
I am liberal in politics and in everyday life, an activist of
human rights and environmentalism. Many say that it‘s
just a big trend right now, well I have nothing against
being fashionable and saving our delicate planet at once!
Travelling is my biggest passion and there hasn’t been a
place that I went to and didn’t fall in love with.
Independent movies also play an important role in my
festivals inVilnius and abroad.
in all of my stories about the lovelyVilnius.I will end with
my favourite quote –The world is a book and those who
do not travel read only one page.
WhyVilnius?
I love Vilnius because it has an amazing old town. The
sound of footsteps on the old pavement, cute bakeries,
little markets, familiar smiles.
Vilnius is quite small for a capital, so it is very convenient
to go from one place to another. The city has a great
artistic scene and incredibly tiny bars hidden in the base-
ments of the old town. One could never imagine that
You may never know what you can jump into because
this magical city changes constantly and is growing every
day, just like me!
Please check theVilnius cityblog for links
GabijaVenclovaite (1989)
I moved toVilnius in 2007 to study political science and I could not imagine myself living
anywhere else in Lithuania.
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
6
Balti drambliai - A perfect place for vegetarians
Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
Balti drambliai (White elephants) is a great place for
vegetarians as it offers only vegetarian cuisine. You
can also find lots of delicious types of tea, mildly
alcoholic drinks, live music concerts and DJ sets here.
The music is usually reggae, ska, jazz or sung poetry.
In summer time people are enjoying good food and
music outside the café in the terrace and when it
gets colder everyone gathers in the basement, which
is hundreds of years old. When you come into the
café, the smell of incense takes you away to a warm
faraway place, so this is my favorite place in the
winter for a cup of warm ayurvedic tea or a glass of
hot wine.
I recommend trying a cup of tea, for example white
tea and for the main course you can choose from lots
of different meals. For example basic Indian Curry
with paneer, something with tofu or maybe falafel
with a spicy sauce. My main advice would be not to
experiment too much if you haven't eaten Indian food
before because not everyone's stomach can handle
everything at once! Balti drambliai
Vilniaus str. 41
Old town | +37052620875
Coffee & tea, Music, Restaurants (Vegetarian)
Biryani Lt 13
Mon - Thu 11:00 - 00:00, Fri 11:00 - 04:00, Sat 11:00 -
02:00, Sun 12:00 - 00:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
14
Coffee Inn - Coffee for everyone's taste
Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
Coffee Inn is a coffeehouse chain based in Vilnius.
Coffee inn offers lots of different coffee flavours, they
always have daily or week specials, so you'll find
something different every time. Caramel Macchiato,
banana cappuccino, Tornado Latte (Latte with mango
and cayenne pepper) are only the few ones to name.
Here you can also find great desserts, made by the
baristas themselves. I definitely recommend the
cheesecake and all the cookies!
The coffeehouse in Vilnius Street is always crowded
and full people. There are some pillows on the
window sills and tables outside, so you can enjoy a
cup of coffee outside watching the people passing by
and simply relax.
Coffee Inn also organizes music events; there you can
find many party flyers to great events, free magazines
and newspapers. For some people Coffee Inn is part
of their daily life and a very trendy thing to do. You
can notice that particular type of people, young
fashionistas always hang around in these coffeehouses
with their laptops (Apple, of course, to follow the
trend!).
Coffee Inn
Vilniaus 17
Old town | +37069977541
Coffee & tea
Caramel Macchiato Lt 7.75
Mon - Wed 07:00 - 22:00, Thu 07:00 - 23:00, Fri 07:00
- 00:00, Sat 09:00 - 00:00, Sun 09:00 - 23:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
15
Contemporary Art Centre - Home of modern art
Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
"Everyone is an artist, but only the artists know it",
says a sign on a mass concrete building in VokieĊių
Street. That cold building is the second home for all
the contemporary art lovers and it is called The
Contemporary Art Centre (CAC). Even though you
may not agree with this motto, CAC will help you to
find an artist in yourself.
I am a huge fan of contemporary art and I love the
white plain space of CAC (ŠMC in Lithuanian),
seeing how it transforms for different expositions.
CAC is the largest venue for contemporary art in the
Baltic countries, with an exhibition space of 2400
square meters. The exhibitions are always great and
inspiring, sometimes shocking and brought from all
over the world.
There is a also a stylish CAC Reading Room
downstairs and a great cafe in the same building which
becomes a lounge bar/ nightclub at weekends. Every
year the main country's fashion event Fashion
Infection takes place in CAC and it is a number one
event for all fashionistas! Contemporary Art Centre
VokieĊių 2
Old town | +37052121945
Art & culture, Bars, Music
Entrance adults Lt 8
Tue - Sun 12:00 - 20:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
18
Daiktų viešbutis - Trendiest spot in town
Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Daiktu viesbutis picture
Daiktų viešbutis is one of the trendiest shops and
design studios in Vilnius. It is located in the New town
urban district, which is becoming the new IT place to
live. This area is full of industrial buildings and now
many of them are being transformed into lofts.
The name means "Hotel of things" and I could add
that it is a hotel of design, fashion, ideas, photography
and innovation. Contemporary furniture, modern
lightning items made by famous Lithuanian and foreign
designers are the items to begin with. Here you can
also find Lithuanian designers' clothes and accessories,
lomography items. Without a doubt, this is the
best place for unique last minute gifts or gift
ideas! Once I bought magic beans with the words
"Happy birthday" inscribed on simple beans, which
were visible when the beans started growing.
There is also a cozy café "Tasty Life" at the second
floor of the Hotel. You won't see a menu, so don't be
surprised! The Chef improvises while making every
dish, so you can always expect something different.
Daiktų viešbutis
T.ŠevĊenkos str. 16A
Center & New town | +37066235011
Art & culture, Shopping
Designer's brooch Lt 80
Mon - Fri 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 16:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
19
De'Žavu - Add a vintage touch to your wardrobe
Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: De'Žavu Vintage Boutique picture
De'Žavu is a beautiful shop located in the old town
of Vilnius. It was one of the first ones bringing all the
vintage fashion "movement" to the city.
You can find various types of clothing in the store,
starting from really vintage ones looking like from our
granny's wardrobe to really fashionable ones just like
from the trendiest fashion magazines. The clothes
are brought from London every week, so you can
always expect something new.
I love this place the most because of all the amazing
accessories and unique dresses i can find here.
Amazingly beautiful leather bags and shoes, scarfs,
beads, vintage glasses helping to create my own style
or put a final touch and not to be one of those
Zara/ H&M clones.
The shop assistants are very friendly and helpful, the
interior is cosy with an antique touch making every
visit so pleasant. And even though sometimes I leave
the shop without finding 'That Polka dot dress' I've
been looking for or 'Those ballet flats', I always leave
with a smile... knowing I will come back next week!
De'Žavu
SaviĊiaus str. 5
Old town | +37052121556
Shopping
Leather shoes Lt 90
Mon - Fri 11:00 - 20:00, Sat 11:00 - 19:00, Sun 12:00 -
18:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
20
Debut Café - A perfect wine place
Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
If you are a wine lover, Vilnius is a perfect city for
you. There are many cozy wine restaurants in the old
town.
One great restaurant is called Debut Café. It
catches your eye from the street and you are lucky if
you are able to read the title on their logo from the
first time (to be honest, it took some time for me).
Cozy interior with large windows, lots of candles and
brick walls invite you in. You can find a great variety
of different wines here at a reasonable price! If you
are not a wine expert, don't worry, because the
friendly waiters are always ready to help and you will
enjoy the one that suits you best.
As the bar is not separated, it creates a warm homish
atmosphere. The staff and the customers are all in
one open space. Debut Café not only offers a
variety of great appetizers, salad, Italian cuisine, but
also special daily lunch menus. It is said that they have
the best chefs in Vilnius city!
Debut Café
Jogailos 8
Old town | +37052643464
Restaurants (Italian)
Glass of wine Lt 8
Mon - Thu 11:00 - 22:00, Fri 11:00 - 02:00, Sat 12:00 -
02:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
22
Flea market - Start your Sunday with fun!
Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Blusuturgus
Flea markets are always a great fun and even though
you don't have any intentions of buying anything, you
can see so many eye - catching, exclusive and
uncommon things! Every Sunday starting noon the
Summer Terrace (Yard of the Teachers' House)
transforms into a vivid and colorful flea market. The
location is great and it is just in the heart of the old
town.
The things you can find here could be divided into
three groups. Firstly: the antiques: pre – war paintings,
soviet attributes, coins, brought by antique dealers
and gallerists. Secondly: the handmade accessories
made using decoupage technique, ceramic modeling
clay, from felt or beads. These are mostly earrings,
brooches, necklaces. Thirdly: used clothes, shoes,
accessories or books. They are usually brought by
people in the 16 – 30 age group.
As you can see, there's a broad spectrum of different
things, so you can easily find something for yourself,
your grandmother and for your little brother!
Flea market
Vilnius st. 39/6
Old town
Art & culture, Shopping
Free
Sun 12:00 - 16:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
23
Frank Zappa Monument - Zappa in Vilnius
Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
What do Vilnius and the legendary Frank Zappa have
in common? Zappa doesn't have any Lithuanian
ancestors and has never even been in our country,
but Vilnius is the first city in the world where Zappa's
bust was built.
The bust shows a pony-tailed Zappa in a rather
gloomy mood in the late years of his life and is found
in the centre of Vilnius at K. Kalinausko Square. The
walls surrounding monument are decorated with
some interesting graffiti works.
As it is quite a tiny spot and not a very popular
meeting place, don't be surprised if you ask someone
for a direction and a person just shrugs. As I walk
through the square every day it always makes me
smile, especially one of the tags on the wall that says
"Don't eat yellow snow".
The idea to build a bust came to photographer Saulius
Paukstys, who is also a president of the country's
Frank Zappa fan club. He believes that Zappa was a
cult figure in Lithuania and much of Eastern Europe
during Soviet times. The bust was made by sculptor
Konstantinas Bogdanas in 1995, so it has a quite a
significant meaning. The fact that city government
allowed to build a sculpture of a western culture
symbol, showed that society is ready for western's
culture ideas.
Frank Zappa Monument
K. Kalinausko square
Center & New town
Art & culture
Free
24 hours daily
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
28
I love you sign from flowers - Vilnius talks to you
Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
If you like walking by foot, jogging or riding a bicycle,
there is one beautiful place in a city center just
perfect for these activities.
When you walk down the Green Bridge, you can see
the words AŠ TAVE MYLIU laid out of flowers. At
the other river bank the words say AŠ IRGI TAVE
. These words mean I LOVE YOU and I YOU
TOO. Even though some locals find it tacky, I think it
is a lovely idea and it always makes me smile. The
river Neris divides the old part of the city – old town
and the new part - modern buildings, the so called
Business center.
There are sidewalks all around the river among the
area of these signs from flowers, also White Bridge
and Mindaugas Bridge. I find it the best place for
jogging, as the paths are concrete and you will meet
many other joggers!
I love you sign from flowers
Neris River bank, Green bridge
Center & New town
Relaxing
Free
24 hours daily
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
32
Kitchen - A new concept in eating
Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
Quite recently a new restaurant/cafe named Kitchen
was opened. This place became incredibly popular
even though it doesn't even have a proper website or
active promoting campaign. Everyone just keeps
talking about this new amazing place, so reservations
are needed even on a regular Tuesday night.
The first thing which catches the eye is the modern
and spacious interior without any unnecessary details.
The massive wooden tables, modern lightning reminds
of a Scandinavian interior in darker tones. The menu
is not overcrowded but offers choices to suit every
taste - Mediterranean, Italian cuisine, poultry dishes,
great cream soups. Daily lunch specials are also
offered and announced on Kitchen's Facebook page.
I would strongly advise you to try the delicious
chocolate cake with ice – cream. This cake is not
included in the menu, so you have to ask the waiter.
The waiters are really attentive and polite, filling one's
glass of water constantly. The prices are little bit
higher than in a regular café, but I assure that you
won't regret spending a single cent and will definitely
want to come back!
Kitchen
Didžioji 11
Old town | +37068880558
Restaurants (Intern.)
Main meal Lt 25
Mon - Fri 11:30 - 00:00, Sat - Sun 10:00 - 00:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
34
Literatų street - Get to know Lithuanian writers
Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
There is a street in the old town called Literatų
(Writers'). A few years ago the walls of the street
were decorated with various outdoor - proof
techniques like glass, ceramics, sculpture, glass or wall
painting.
Every artist (many of them are famous Lithuanian
sculptors, ceramists) chose a writer, journalist or
important figure for Lithuanian literature and made a
little piece of beauty which symbolizes something
about his work or influences. Some of the authors
have a few works dedicated to them, others are not
very well known, which makes the place even more
fun.
Nr. 18 for example was left empty with a sign „for
writers of the streets" meaning graffiti artists and now
someone filled the frame with a graffiti tag. Nr. 35 is
like a calculator, where you can even press the
buttons.
I really like Nr. 23 for Sigitas Geda and Nr. 30 for
Jurga Ivanauskaite. As I used to read a lot of
Lithuanian authors, this is a very special spot for me
and the first place I drag all my foreign friends to! I
think it is very unique and you could hardly find it
anywhere else in the world!
Literatų street
Literatų street
Old town
Art & culture, Relaxing
Free
24 hours daily
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
36
Mano guru - A special salad restaurant
Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
Mano guru is a salad bar in the old town. Here you
can find all types of salads one could think of, as it
offers more than 60 kinds of different salads! With
vegetables, soy, cottage cheese, grilled chicken, beef,
seafood and many more. There are also different
types of delicious soups and desserts, refreshing
herbal teas, fleshly squeezed juices on the menu. I
think the cream of broccoli soup here is the best in
the city and the salad with blue cheese is amazing, so
you could definitely try these ones.
Alcohol is not sold in the salad bar as the main idea of
the restaurant is healthy eating and healthy lifestyle.
There are special marks on the menu for vegetarian
meals, authorized by the Vegetarians' Association.
There is a very nice story behind Mano guru's
establishment as well. It started with the initiative to
enable young ex-drug addicts to return into society
and be employed after drug rehabilitations. Therefore,
they form the majority of the salad restaurant staff.
You should definitely come here if you are bored of
the same Greek Caesar salad everywhere and want to
try something fresh and new, as well as support a
beautiful idea that everyone is an equal member of
society.
Mano guru
Vilniaus str. 22/Labdariu str. 1
Old town | +37052122399
Restaurants (Salads)
Main meal Lt 13
Mon - Fri 07:00 - 21:00, Sat - Sun 09:00 - 20:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
38
Mint Vinetu - The joy of reading
Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
Mint Vinetu is a bookshop in the very heart of the old
town. It is a different kind of bookshop because here
you can bring and sell your beloved book or take
another one in exchange.
The books are incredibly cheap and brought by the
book lovers from everywhere. Sharing is caring! You
can find books in Lithuanian, English, Russian, German,
French and Italian languages.
Maybe you have been looking for a particular book
from your childhood in many bookshops all over
Europe and could not find it? You can ask Mint Vinetu
family members to find it for you! I am saying family
members because they definitely feel like it. The
bookshop is really cozy and it is so great to sit there
with a good book, enjoy a cup of mint tea and a piece
of tasty pie with a nice jazz music at the background.
There are also special events with writers and book
authors organized. As well as poetry readings or
movie nights. Here you can always feel welcome!
Mint Vinetu
Šv. Ignoto 16/10
Old town | +37061820347
Coffee & tea, Shopping
Free
11:00 - 20:00 daily
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
40
National Gallery of Art - Discover Lithuanian art
Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
The National Gallery of Art (NGA) is a great place to
learn more about Lithuanian painters and different
types of art. This gallery has a huge collection of
Lithuanian art of the 20th and 21st Century. The art
collection includes over 46.000 exhibits!
The most striking thing about this gallery is it's
building and interior. It is an impressive example of
late modernist Lithuanian architecture. A few years
ago the whole building was finally reconstructed and
made into a huge modern space. Glass,
white concrete and steel interior, high ceiling, large
dominate in the building. Every single detail such as
armchairs, doors or even rubbish bins (!) fits
perfectly and forms this magical solid atmosphere.
The gallery also has a few cinema rooms, so they
often organize interesting educational movie
programs. For example, documentary movies about
photographers, modern dancing. There are many
other events organized almost every week, so you
should check their website before coming.
National Gallery of Art
Konstitucijos pr. 22
Center & New town | +37052122997
Art & culture
Entrance adults Lt 6
Tue - Wed & Fri - Sat 12:00 - 19:00, Thu 13:00 -
20:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
42
Pasaka - Cinema boutique
Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
Cinema world is like a fairy tale, so no wonder this
cinema boutique chose a name Pasaka (Fairy tale).
Pasaka is located at the crossroads of beautiful
narrow old town streets and above the fabulous La
Boheme wine place. The cinema's owners clearly
understood that a glass of delicious red wine and
Fellini's Roma is a perfect combination, so you can
bring wine from La Boheme upstairs. Pretty amazing,
isn't it? Any other drinks or meals are not allowed,
though.
Pasaka was opened few years ago with the idea to
bring good, valuable, independent movies back to the
cinema lovers in Vilnius. It clearly follows this mission
as the cinema is really popular and sometimes you
cannot even get a seat! There are three auditoriums –
the Small Hall, The Big Hall and one called Pušku
Pušku. It has 25 comfy chair bags and a cozy home
lightning, so maybe this explains such an interesting
name.
Here you can see the films of the best country's
noncommercial film festivals - Ad Hoc: Inconvenient
Films, European Film Forum Scanorama, Vilnius
International Film Festival, International Women Film
Festival „Šeršėliafam" and others.
Quite often the movies are shown for free or for a
symbolic price, so that everyone could enjoy good
and independent movies.
Pasaka
Šv. Ignoto 4/3
Old town | +3702611516
Cinemas
Ticket Lt 12
Tue - Sat 21:00 - 00:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
43
Philly's Cheese Steak - Try Philly's cheese steaks!
Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
Those who have been to Philadelphia in USA,
definitely tried the famous Philly's Cheese Steak. Being
not the biggest fan of fast food, I could never imagine
anyone being proud of a meal with beef and roll as
the main ingredients... But when I tried Philly's Cheese
Steak and changed this opinion!
Cheese steak is a sandwich made from thinly sliced
pieces of steak and melted cheese (usually American
or Provolone) in a long roll. Usually mushrooms,
onions and peppers are also added.
Coming back home after my summer spent close to
Philly, I was really surprised to find out that a new
Cheese Steaks' place was opened in Vilnius recently
just next to my home. Needless to say, I had to give
it a shot!
In "Philly's Cheese Steak" you can have your cheese
steak with chicken if you prefer white meat, add
Jalapeño peppers, tomatoes or pickles. I had mine
with pickles and mustard. It was absolutely delicious!
The price is little bit higher than a regular fast food
snack (kebab/ hot dog/ hamburger), but you are full
for at least half of the day. As it is more of a
sandwich, I also find it healthier than the snacks
mentioned before.
It is also great that this place is open late during
weekends, so you can grab a snack after a long night
of partying.
Philly's Cheese Steak
K. Kalinausko str. 2/ Pylimo str. 5
Center & New town
Snacks
Philadelphia cheesesteak Lt 10
Mon - Thu 07:00 - 22:00, Fri - 07:00 - 02:00, Sat 09:00
- 02:00, Sun 09:00 - 19:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
44
Piano Man Bar - Great pre-party place
Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
Vilnius does not have a huge concentrated clubbing
area, but there is a so-called triangle in the old town
with many bars, clubs, discos and 24/7 fast food places
around Islandijos street. During the weekends it is
pretty packed with party lovers and taxi cars.
There is one particular place, which is crowded all the
time. It is called Piano Man Bar and the lyrics of this
great song fit just perfectly: "Well, we're all in the
mood for a melody and you've got us feelin' alright".
It is quite hard for me to say what is the secret of its
popularity, but somehow it's just a great place to get
together with friends and have some beer, chit chat
or just rub shoulders with interesting people. The
interior is nice and cozy, the drinks are really good, so
you will definitely have a great time.
Due to the no smoking in public areas policy and the
little space, most of the interesting things happen
outside the bar on the sidewalk as in most of places. I
highly recommend it is a pre – party place because it
is perfectly located, so you can meet your friends,
spend some time there and figure out where you are
heading next!
Piano Man Bar
Islandijos 1
Old town | +37065096925
Bars
Beer Lt 8
Mon 17:00 - 01:00, Tue 16:00 - 01:00, Wed 16:00 -
02:00, Thu - Fri 16:00 - 04:00, Sat 18:00 - 04:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
45
Play Club - Just Play!
Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Valdone Daugelaite
If you ask me where to go on a Tuesday night, I would
say Play! If you ask where to go on a Friday night, I
would definitely say Play! Undoubtedly, Play is the
best place in Vilnius to have fun.
It is located in a tiny basement in the city center but it
fits huge crowds of party lovers. There are two
foosball tables where you can play foosball for free all
day and night. If you are good at it, you will have a
blast playing with best foosball players of Lithuania,
who come there almost every day.
If you play it only once in a while (like me) it may be
not that much fun because you will be crushed after 2
minutes. But, Play Club has the best and wildest
parties with great DJs and live performances at
weekends.
There's nothing that won't fit to the interior of this
bar. You can find Polaroid pictures, graffitis on walls,
traffic signs, old TVs and etc. when people don't fit
inside (which happens all the time), they just hang
around and enjoy chats outside the bar. Try "Bitutes"
beer, it's a must!
Play Club
Pamėnkalnio str.17/3
Center & New town
Bars, Music
Beer Lt 6
Mon - Sat 19:00 - 03:00, Sun 20:00 - 02:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
54
Skalvija - Cinema for your heart
Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Julija StanceviĊiūtė
Skalvija is a small, cosy art - house cinema in the
centre of Vilnius. It is the oldest of the few cinemas
we still have today in city showing non – commercial
and classic movies. Nowadays huge cinemas have
incredible sound system, vibrating chairs, everyone
eats pop corn and drinks coke disturbing you to
watch the movie. Skalvija is the exact opposite and
that is why I love it so much.
There is only one screen and 88 seats in the cinema
itself, so you can feel almost like in a private screening
and just concentrate to the movie and enjoy the
amazing cinematic world. Skalvija is also the major
venue for cinematic events – festivals, meetings with
filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings. It
organizes festivals like Vilnius Film Shorts, Vilnius
Documentary Film Festival, Young Filmmakers Film
Festival, Karlsson's cinema – movies for kids and many
more. All the movies are carefully selected and
unforgettable.
I remember the first time I went there as a young
teenager to see a movie from 60's... I was so
fascinated seeing something so different, unpolished
and retro on the cinema screen, maybe this was the
moment when my love for the independent movies
was born. Maybe a visit to Skalvija will change your
attitude towards movies as well!
Skalvija
A. Goštauto 2/15
Center & New town | +3702610505
Cinemas
Ticket Lt 12
09:00 - 21:00 daily
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
55
Šokolado namai - The paradise of Chocolate!
Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
If you have a sweet tooth (like me) and love
chocolate, then there is one place in the old town
that you can't miss! It is called the Chocolate Home
and they have the best handmade chocolate in city.
Here you can find dark chocolate, white chocolate,
Belgian chocolate, milk chocolate, even sugar free
chocolate for people with diabetes. Also lots of
chocolate candies with different fillings like nuts,
ginger Greek nuts, raisins, coffee beans, caramel,
plums and etc. And of course, try a cup of hot
chocolate which will warm you up during cold
Lithuanian weather.
Everything you buy is put into beautiful paper bags,
you can ask for more fancy bags or boxes with
different decorations if it is a present.
The most interesting thing is that this shop organizes
chocolate tasting presentations. During the two hour
presentation you can learn about the history of
chocolate, see the whole process of chocolate
making, taste the freshly made chocolate and even
make sweets yourselves and take them home!
Šokolado namai
Trakų 13
Old town | +37065299867
Coffee & tea, Snacks
4 chocolate candies Lt 8
Mon - Sat 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 11:00 - 18:00
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
61
Super Sushi Terrace - Sushi all day and night
Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
During the last years, sushi places spread all over
Vilnius. You can find everything from expensive
Japanese restaurants to fast food style sushi
restaurants. Even though saying that you like sushi
nowadays is the same as saying you take public bus to
university every morning, you can always try different
types and combinations.
One place really stands out from the rest and it is
called Super Sushi Terrace. This terrace is open 24/7,
so now you can have a healthy snack at 03:00 after
partying instead of some junk food! Even though from
the outside it looks more like a temporary terrace for
city festival, sushi here is absolutely delicious!
I never really thought of eating here, but after so
many good recommendations, I decided to give it a
try. And after that, I've been coming back once every
week! In Super Sushi Terrace you can find cheaper
mini sushi, regular sushi, as well as different kind of
maki - Vulcano, Vuspa, Kappi Maguro, Obana, etc.
You can also choose to eat salad or soup.
Special passwords are announced on their Facebook
page, so you can even get discounts!
Super Sushi Terrace
Vilniaus 24 B
Old town | +37063000004
Snacks
Main meal Lt 10
24 hours daily
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012
62
Swedbank terrace - Relax an enjoy spectacular view
Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite
If you browse through Lithuanian youngsters profile
pictures on Facebook, you will notice many of them
sitting in a terrace in a round plastic armchair. The
place all those pictures were taken is called Swedbank
terrace and it is an extremely popular spot to hang
out with your friends on weekends or just relax after
a long day.
The Swedbank terrace is located on the river bank
of Neris and beautiful scenery of the river and the old
town can be seen from there. What makes this place
different and special, is the possibility to grab some
snacks before, for example sushi from a sushi bar
right next to the terrace and just to sit in a comfy
armchair enjoying the sun and fresh weather.
Swedbank is also a popular place to take beautiful
pictures during the wedding, so sometimes you even
have to wait before you can actually come to the
surrounding fence and enjoy the view!
So grab some food, grab your friends and come!
Don't forget your camera because you don't want to
be the only one NOT taking pictures.
Swedbank terrace
Konstitucijos ave. 20a
Center & New town
Relaxing
Free
24 hours daily
www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius
Last updated: 1 August 2012

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Gabija Venclovaite articles

  • 1. The Vilnius Authors/Spotters About me I am liberal in politics and in everyday life, an activist of human rights and environmentalism. Many say that it‘s just a big trend right now, well I have nothing against being fashionable and saving our delicate planet at once! Travelling is my biggest passion and there hasn’t been a place that I went to and didn’t fall in love with. Independent movies also play an important role in my festivals inVilnius and abroad. in all of my stories about the lovelyVilnius.I will end with my favourite quote –The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page. WhyVilnius? I love Vilnius because it has an amazing old town. The sound of footsteps on the old pavement, cute bakeries, little markets, familiar smiles. Vilnius is quite small for a capital, so it is very convenient to go from one place to another. The city has a great artistic scene and incredibly tiny bars hidden in the base- ments of the old town. One could never imagine that You may never know what you can jump into because this magical city changes constantly and is growing every day, just like me! Please check theVilnius cityblog for links GabijaVenclovaite (1989) I moved toVilnius in 2007 to study political science and I could not imagine myself living anywhere else in Lithuania. www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 2. 6 Balti drambliai - A perfect place for vegetarians Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite Balti drambliai (White elephants) is a great place for vegetarians as it offers only vegetarian cuisine. You can also find lots of delicious types of tea, mildly alcoholic drinks, live music concerts and DJ sets here. The music is usually reggae, ska, jazz or sung poetry. In summer time people are enjoying good food and music outside the café in the terrace and when it gets colder everyone gathers in the basement, which is hundreds of years old. When you come into the café, the smell of incense takes you away to a warm faraway place, so this is my favorite place in the winter for a cup of warm ayurvedic tea or a glass of hot wine. I recommend trying a cup of tea, for example white tea and for the main course you can choose from lots of different meals. For example basic Indian Curry with paneer, something with tofu or maybe falafel with a spicy sauce. My main advice would be not to experiment too much if you haven't eaten Indian food before because not everyone's stomach can handle everything at once! Balti drambliai Vilniaus str. 41 Old town | +37052620875 Coffee & tea, Music, Restaurants (Vegetarian) Biryani Lt 13 Mon - Thu 11:00 - 00:00, Fri 11:00 - 04:00, Sat 11:00 - 02:00, Sun 12:00 - 00:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 3. 14 Coffee Inn - Coffee for everyone's taste Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite Coffee Inn is a coffeehouse chain based in Vilnius. Coffee inn offers lots of different coffee flavours, they always have daily or week specials, so you'll find something different every time. Caramel Macchiato, banana cappuccino, Tornado Latte (Latte with mango and cayenne pepper) are only the few ones to name. Here you can also find great desserts, made by the baristas themselves. I definitely recommend the cheesecake and all the cookies! The coffeehouse in Vilnius Street is always crowded and full people. There are some pillows on the window sills and tables outside, so you can enjoy a cup of coffee outside watching the people passing by and simply relax. Coffee Inn also organizes music events; there you can find many party flyers to great events, free magazines and newspapers. For some people Coffee Inn is part of their daily life and a very trendy thing to do. You can notice that particular type of people, young fashionistas always hang around in these coffeehouses with their laptops (Apple, of course, to follow the trend!). Coffee Inn Vilniaus 17 Old town | +37069977541 Coffee & tea Caramel Macchiato Lt 7.75 Mon - Wed 07:00 - 22:00, Thu 07:00 - 23:00, Fri 07:00 - 00:00, Sat 09:00 - 00:00, Sun 09:00 - 23:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 4. 15 Contemporary Art Centre - Home of modern art Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite "Everyone is an artist, but only the artists know it", says a sign on a mass concrete building in VokieĊių Street. That cold building is the second home for all the contemporary art lovers and it is called The Contemporary Art Centre (CAC). Even though you may not agree with this motto, CAC will help you to find an artist in yourself. I am a huge fan of contemporary art and I love the white plain space of CAC (ŠMC in Lithuanian), seeing how it transforms for different expositions. CAC is the largest venue for contemporary art in the Baltic countries, with an exhibition space of 2400 square meters. The exhibitions are always great and inspiring, sometimes shocking and brought from all over the world. There is a also a stylish CAC Reading Room downstairs and a great cafe in the same building which becomes a lounge bar/ nightclub at weekends. Every year the main country's fashion event Fashion Infection takes place in CAC and it is a number one event for all fashionistas! Contemporary Art Centre VokieĊių 2 Old town | +37052121945 Art & culture, Bars, Music Entrance adults Lt 8 Tue - Sun 12:00 - 20:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 5. 18 Daiktų viešbutis - Trendiest spot in town Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Daiktu viesbutis picture Daiktų viešbutis is one of the trendiest shops and design studios in Vilnius. It is located in the New town urban district, which is becoming the new IT place to live. This area is full of industrial buildings and now many of them are being transformed into lofts. The name means "Hotel of things" and I could add that it is a hotel of design, fashion, ideas, photography and innovation. Contemporary furniture, modern lightning items made by famous Lithuanian and foreign designers are the items to begin with. Here you can also find Lithuanian designers' clothes and accessories, lomography items. Without a doubt, this is the best place for unique last minute gifts or gift ideas! Once I bought magic beans with the words "Happy birthday" inscribed on simple beans, which were visible when the beans started growing. There is also a cozy café "Tasty Life" at the second floor of the Hotel. You won't see a menu, so don't be surprised! The Chef improvises while making every dish, so you can always expect something different. Daiktų viešbutis T.ŠevĊenkos str. 16A Center & New town | +37066235011 Art & culture, Shopping Designer's brooch Lt 80 Mon - Fri 11:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 16:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 6. 19 De'Žavu - Add a vintage touch to your wardrobe Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: De'Žavu Vintage Boutique picture De'Žavu is a beautiful shop located in the old town of Vilnius. It was one of the first ones bringing all the vintage fashion "movement" to the city. You can find various types of clothing in the store, starting from really vintage ones looking like from our granny's wardrobe to really fashionable ones just like from the trendiest fashion magazines. The clothes are brought from London every week, so you can always expect something new. I love this place the most because of all the amazing accessories and unique dresses i can find here. Amazingly beautiful leather bags and shoes, scarfs, beads, vintage glasses helping to create my own style or put a final touch and not to be one of those Zara/ H&M clones. The shop assistants are very friendly and helpful, the interior is cosy with an antique touch making every visit so pleasant. And even though sometimes I leave the shop without finding 'That Polka dot dress' I've been looking for or 'Those ballet flats', I always leave with a smile... knowing I will come back next week! De'Žavu SaviĊiaus str. 5 Old town | +37052121556 Shopping Leather shoes Lt 90 Mon - Fri 11:00 - 20:00, Sat 11:00 - 19:00, Sun 12:00 - 18:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 7. 20 Debut Café - A perfect wine place Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite If you are a wine lover, Vilnius is a perfect city for you. There are many cozy wine restaurants in the old town. One great restaurant is called Debut Café. It catches your eye from the street and you are lucky if you are able to read the title on their logo from the first time (to be honest, it took some time for me). Cozy interior with large windows, lots of candles and brick walls invite you in. You can find a great variety of different wines here at a reasonable price! If you are not a wine expert, don't worry, because the friendly waiters are always ready to help and you will enjoy the one that suits you best. As the bar is not separated, it creates a warm homish atmosphere. The staff and the customers are all in one open space. Debut Café not only offers a variety of great appetizers, salad, Italian cuisine, but also special daily lunch menus. It is said that they have the best chefs in Vilnius city! Debut Café Jogailos 8 Old town | +37052643464 Restaurants (Italian) Glass of wine Lt 8 Mon - Thu 11:00 - 22:00, Fri 11:00 - 02:00, Sat 12:00 - 02:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 8. 22 Flea market - Start your Sunday with fun! Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Blusuturgus Flea markets are always a great fun and even though you don't have any intentions of buying anything, you can see so many eye - catching, exclusive and uncommon things! Every Sunday starting noon the Summer Terrace (Yard of the Teachers' House) transforms into a vivid and colorful flea market. The location is great and it is just in the heart of the old town. The things you can find here could be divided into three groups. Firstly: the antiques: pre – war paintings, soviet attributes, coins, brought by antique dealers and gallerists. Secondly: the handmade accessories made using decoupage technique, ceramic modeling clay, from felt or beads. These are mostly earrings, brooches, necklaces. Thirdly: used clothes, shoes, accessories or books. They are usually brought by people in the 16 – 30 age group. As you can see, there's a broad spectrum of different things, so you can easily find something for yourself, your grandmother and for your little brother! Flea market Vilnius st. 39/6 Old town Art & culture, Shopping Free Sun 12:00 - 16:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 9. 23 Frank Zappa Monument - Zappa in Vilnius Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite What do Vilnius and the legendary Frank Zappa have in common? Zappa doesn't have any Lithuanian ancestors and has never even been in our country, but Vilnius is the first city in the world where Zappa's bust was built. The bust shows a pony-tailed Zappa in a rather gloomy mood in the late years of his life and is found in the centre of Vilnius at K. Kalinausko Square. The walls surrounding monument are decorated with some interesting graffiti works. As it is quite a tiny spot and not a very popular meeting place, don't be surprised if you ask someone for a direction and a person just shrugs. As I walk through the square every day it always makes me smile, especially one of the tags on the wall that says "Don't eat yellow snow". The idea to build a bust came to photographer Saulius Paukstys, who is also a president of the country's Frank Zappa fan club. He believes that Zappa was a cult figure in Lithuania and much of Eastern Europe during Soviet times. The bust was made by sculptor Konstantinas Bogdanas in 1995, so it has a quite a significant meaning. The fact that city government allowed to build a sculpture of a western culture symbol, showed that society is ready for western's culture ideas. Frank Zappa Monument K. Kalinausko square Center & New town Art & culture Free 24 hours daily www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 10. 28 I love you sign from flowers - Vilnius talks to you Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite If you like walking by foot, jogging or riding a bicycle, there is one beautiful place in a city center just perfect for these activities. When you walk down the Green Bridge, you can see the words AŠ TAVE MYLIU laid out of flowers. At the other river bank the words say AŠ IRGI TAVE . These words mean I LOVE YOU and I YOU TOO. Even though some locals find it tacky, I think it is a lovely idea and it always makes me smile. The river Neris divides the old part of the city – old town and the new part - modern buildings, the so called Business center. There are sidewalks all around the river among the area of these signs from flowers, also White Bridge and Mindaugas Bridge. I find it the best place for jogging, as the paths are concrete and you will meet many other joggers! I love you sign from flowers Neris River bank, Green bridge Center & New town Relaxing Free 24 hours daily www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 11. 32 Kitchen - A new concept in eating Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite Quite recently a new restaurant/cafe named Kitchen was opened. This place became incredibly popular even though it doesn't even have a proper website or active promoting campaign. Everyone just keeps talking about this new amazing place, so reservations are needed even on a regular Tuesday night. The first thing which catches the eye is the modern and spacious interior without any unnecessary details. The massive wooden tables, modern lightning reminds of a Scandinavian interior in darker tones. The menu is not overcrowded but offers choices to suit every taste - Mediterranean, Italian cuisine, poultry dishes, great cream soups. Daily lunch specials are also offered and announced on Kitchen's Facebook page. I would strongly advise you to try the delicious chocolate cake with ice – cream. This cake is not included in the menu, so you have to ask the waiter. The waiters are really attentive and polite, filling one's glass of water constantly. The prices are little bit higher than in a regular café, but I assure that you won't regret spending a single cent and will definitely want to come back! Kitchen Didžioji 11 Old town | +37068880558 Restaurants (Intern.) Main meal Lt 25 Mon - Fri 11:30 - 00:00, Sat - Sun 10:00 - 00:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 12. 34 Literatų street - Get to know Lithuanian writers Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite There is a street in the old town called Literatų (Writers'). A few years ago the walls of the street were decorated with various outdoor - proof techniques like glass, ceramics, sculpture, glass or wall painting. Every artist (many of them are famous Lithuanian sculptors, ceramists) chose a writer, journalist or important figure for Lithuanian literature and made a little piece of beauty which symbolizes something about his work or influences. Some of the authors have a few works dedicated to them, others are not very well known, which makes the place even more fun. Nr. 18 for example was left empty with a sign „for writers of the streets" meaning graffiti artists and now someone filled the frame with a graffiti tag. Nr. 35 is like a calculator, where you can even press the buttons. I really like Nr. 23 for Sigitas Geda and Nr. 30 for Jurga Ivanauskaite. As I used to read a lot of Lithuanian authors, this is a very special spot for me and the first place I drag all my foreign friends to! I think it is very unique and you could hardly find it anywhere else in the world! Literatų street Literatų street Old town Art & culture, Relaxing Free 24 hours daily www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 13. 36 Mano guru - A special salad restaurant Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite Mano guru is a salad bar in the old town. Here you can find all types of salads one could think of, as it offers more than 60 kinds of different salads! With vegetables, soy, cottage cheese, grilled chicken, beef, seafood and many more. There are also different types of delicious soups and desserts, refreshing herbal teas, fleshly squeezed juices on the menu. I think the cream of broccoli soup here is the best in the city and the salad with blue cheese is amazing, so you could definitely try these ones. Alcohol is not sold in the salad bar as the main idea of the restaurant is healthy eating and healthy lifestyle. There are special marks on the menu for vegetarian meals, authorized by the Vegetarians' Association. There is a very nice story behind Mano guru's establishment as well. It started with the initiative to enable young ex-drug addicts to return into society and be employed after drug rehabilitations. Therefore, they form the majority of the salad restaurant staff. You should definitely come here if you are bored of the same Greek Caesar salad everywhere and want to try something fresh and new, as well as support a beautiful idea that everyone is an equal member of society. Mano guru Vilniaus str. 22/Labdariu str. 1 Old town | +37052122399 Restaurants (Salads) Main meal Lt 13 Mon - Fri 07:00 - 21:00, Sat - Sun 09:00 - 20:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 14. 38 Mint Vinetu - The joy of reading Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite Mint Vinetu is a bookshop in the very heart of the old town. It is a different kind of bookshop because here you can bring and sell your beloved book or take another one in exchange. The books are incredibly cheap and brought by the book lovers from everywhere. Sharing is caring! You can find books in Lithuanian, English, Russian, German, French and Italian languages. Maybe you have been looking for a particular book from your childhood in many bookshops all over Europe and could not find it? You can ask Mint Vinetu family members to find it for you! I am saying family members because they definitely feel like it. The bookshop is really cozy and it is so great to sit there with a good book, enjoy a cup of mint tea and a piece of tasty pie with a nice jazz music at the background. There are also special events with writers and book authors organized. As well as poetry readings or movie nights. Here you can always feel welcome! Mint Vinetu Šv. Ignoto 16/10 Old town | +37061820347 Coffee & tea, Shopping Free 11:00 - 20:00 daily www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 15. 40 National Gallery of Art - Discover Lithuanian art Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite The National Gallery of Art (NGA) is a great place to learn more about Lithuanian painters and different types of art. This gallery has a huge collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th and 21st Century. The art collection includes over 46.000 exhibits! The most striking thing about this gallery is it's building and interior. It is an impressive example of late modernist Lithuanian architecture. A few years ago the whole building was finally reconstructed and made into a huge modern space. Glass, white concrete and steel interior, high ceiling, large dominate in the building. Every single detail such as armchairs, doors or even rubbish bins (!) fits perfectly and forms this magical solid atmosphere. The gallery also has a few cinema rooms, so they often organize interesting educational movie programs. For example, documentary movies about photographers, modern dancing. There are many other events organized almost every week, so you should check their website before coming. National Gallery of Art Konstitucijos pr. 22 Center & New town | +37052122997 Art & culture Entrance adults Lt 6 Tue - Wed & Fri - Sat 12:00 - 19:00, Thu 13:00 - 20:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 16. 42 Pasaka - Cinema boutique Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite Cinema world is like a fairy tale, so no wonder this cinema boutique chose a name Pasaka (Fairy tale). Pasaka is located at the crossroads of beautiful narrow old town streets and above the fabulous La Boheme wine place. The cinema's owners clearly understood that a glass of delicious red wine and Fellini's Roma is a perfect combination, so you can bring wine from La Boheme upstairs. Pretty amazing, isn't it? Any other drinks or meals are not allowed, though. Pasaka was opened few years ago with the idea to bring good, valuable, independent movies back to the cinema lovers in Vilnius. It clearly follows this mission as the cinema is really popular and sometimes you cannot even get a seat! There are three auditoriums – the Small Hall, The Big Hall and one called Pušku Pušku. It has 25 comfy chair bags and a cozy home lightning, so maybe this explains such an interesting name. Here you can see the films of the best country's noncommercial film festivals - Ad Hoc: Inconvenient Films, European Film Forum Scanorama, Vilnius International Film Festival, International Women Film Festival „Šeršėliafam" and others. Quite often the movies are shown for free or for a symbolic price, so that everyone could enjoy good and independent movies. Pasaka Šv. Ignoto 4/3 Old town | +3702611516 Cinemas Ticket Lt 12 Tue - Sat 21:00 - 00:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 17. 43 Philly's Cheese Steak - Try Philly's cheese steaks! Last updated: Jun 4th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite Those who have been to Philadelphia in USA, definitely tried the famous Philly's Cheese Steak. Being not the biggest fan of fast food, I could never imagine anyone being proud of a meal with beef and roll as the main ingredients... But when I tried Philly's Cheese Steak and changed this opinion! Cheese steak is a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of steak and melted cheese (usually American or Provolone) in a long roll. Usually mushrooms, onions and peppers are also added. Coming back home after my summer spent close to Philly, I was really surprised to find out that a new Cheese Steaks' place was opened in Vilnius recently just next to my home. Needless to say, I had to give it a shot! In "Philly's Cheese Steak" you can have your cheese steak with chicken if you prefer white meat, add Jalapeño peppers, tomatoes or pickles. I had mine with pickles and mustard. It was absolutely delicious! The price is little bit higher than a regular fast food snack (kebab/ hot dog/ hamburger), but you are full for at least half of the day. As it is more of a sandwich, I also find it healthier than the snacks mentioned before. It is also great that this place is open late during weekends, so you can grab a snack after a long night of partying. Philly's Cheese Steak K. Kalinausko str. 2/ Pylimo str. 5 Center & New town Snacks Philadelphia cheesesteak Lt 10 Mon - Thu 07:00 - 22:00, Fri - 07:00 - 02:00, Sat 09:00 - 02:00, Sun 09:00 - 19:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 18. 44 Piano Man Bar - Great pre-party place Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite Vilnius does not have a huge concentrated clubbing area, but there is a so-called triangle in the old town with many bars, clubs, discos and 24/7 fast food places around Islandijos street. During the weekends it is pretty packed with party lovers and taxi cars. There is one particular place, which is crowded all the time. It is called Piano Man Bar and the lyrics of this great song fit just perfectly: "Well, we're all in the mood for a melody and you've got us feelin' alright". It is quite hard for me to say what is the secret of its popularity, but somehow it's just a great place to get together with friends and have some beer, chit chat or just rub shoulders with interesting people. The interior is nice and cozy, the drinks are really good, so you will definitely have a great time. Due to the no smoking in public areas policy and the little space, most of the interesting things happen outside the bar on the sidewalk as in most of places. I highly recommend it is a pre – party place because it is perfectly located, so you can meet your friends, spend some time there and figure out where you are heading next! Piano Man Bar Islandijos 1 Old town | +37065096925 Bars Beer Lt 8 Mon 17:00 - 01:00, Tue 16:00 - 01:00, Wed 16:00 - 02:00, Thu - Fri 16:00 - 04:00, Sat 18:00 - 04:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 19. 45 Play Club - Just Play! Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Valdone Daugelaite If you ask me where to go on a Tuesday night, I would say Play! If you ask where to go on a Friday night, I would definitely say Play! Undoubtedly, Play is the best place in Vilnius to have fun. It is located in a tiny basement in the city center but it fits huge crowds of party lovers. There are two foosball tables where you can play foosball for free all day and night. If you are good at it, you will have a blast playing with best foosball players of Lithuania, who come there almost every day. If you play it only once in a while (like me) it may be not that much fun because you will be crushed after 2 minutes. But, Play Club has the best and wildest parties with great DJs and live performances at weekends. There's nothing that won't fit to the interior of this bar. You can find Polaroid pictures, graffitis on walls, traffic signs, old TVs and etc. when people don't fit inside (which happens all the time), they just hang around and enjoy chats outside the bar. Try "Bitutes" beer, it's a must! Play Club Pamėnkalnio str.17/3 Center & New town Bars, Music Beer Lt 6 Mon - Sat 19:00 - 03:00, Sun 20:00 - 02:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 20. 54 Skalvija - Cinema for your heart Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Julija StanceviĊiūtė Skalvija is a small, cosy art - house cinema in the centre of Vilnius. It is the oldest of the few cinemas we still have today in city showing non – commercial and classic movies. Nowadays huge cinemas have incredible sound system, vibrating chairs, everyone eats pop corn and drinks coke disturbing you to watch the movie. Skalvija is the exact opposite and that is why I love it so much. There is only one screen and 88 seats in the cinema itself, so you can feel almost like in a private screening and just concentrate to the movie and enjoy the amazing cinematic world. Skalvija is also the major venue for cinematic events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings. It organizes festivals like Vilnius Film Shorts, Vilnius Documentary Film Festival, Young Filmmakers Film Festival, Karlsson's cinema – movies for kids and many more. All the movies are carefully selected and unforgettable. I remember the first time I went there as a young teenager to see a movie from 60's... I was so fascinated seeing something so different, unpolished and retro on the cinema screen, maybe this was the moment when my love for the independent movies was born. Maybe a visit to Skalvija will change your attitude towards movies as well! Skalvija A. Goštauto 2/15 Center & New town | +3702610505 Cinemas Ticket Lt 12 09:00 - 21:00 daily www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 21. 55 Šokolado namai - The paradise of Chocolate! Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite If you have a sweet tooth (like me) and love chocolate, then there is one place in the old town that you can't miss! It is called the Chocolate Home and they have the best handmade chocolate in city. Here you can find dark chocolate, white chocolate, Belgian chocolate, milk chocolate, even sugar free chocolate for people with diabetes. Also lots of chocolate candies with different fillings like nuts, ginger Greek nuts, raisins, coffee beans, caramel, plums and etc. And of course, try a cup of hot chocolate which will warm you up during cold Lithuanian weather. Everything you buy is put into beautiful paper bags, you can ask for more fancy bags or boxes with different decorations if it is a present. The most interesting thing is that this shop organizes chocolate tasting presentations. During the two hour presentation you can learn about the history of chocolate, see the whole process of chocolate making, taste the freshly made chocolate and even make sweets yourselves and take them home! Šokolado namai Trakų 13 Old town | +37065299867 Coffee & tea, Snacks 4 chocolate candies Lt 8 Mon - Sat 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 11:00 - 18:00 www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 22. 61 Super Sushi Terrace - Sushi all day and night Last updated: Jul 27th, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite During the last years, sushi places spread all over Vilnius. You can find everything from expensive Japanese restaurants to fast food style sushi restaurants. Even though saying that you like sushi nowadays is the same as saying you take public bus to university every morning, you can always try different types and combinations. One place really stands out from the rest and it is called Super Sushi Terrace. This terrace is open 24/7, so now you can have a healthy snack at 03:00 after partying instead of some junk food! Even though from the outside it looks more like a temporary terrace for city festival, sushi here is absolutely delicious! I never really thought of eating here, but after so many good recommendations, I decided to give it a try. And after that, I've been coming back once every week! In Super Sushi Terrace you can find cheaper mini sushi, regular sushi, as well as different kind of maki - Vulcano, Vuspa, Kappi Maguro, Obana, etc. You can also choose to eat salad or soup. Special passwords are announced on their Facebook page, so you can even get discounts! Super Sushi Terrace Vilniaus 24 B Old town | +37063000004 Snacks Main meal Lt 10 24 hours daily www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012
  • 23. 62 Swedbank terrace - Relax an enjoy spectacular view Last updated: Jun 1st, 2012 | Article By: Gabija Venclovaite | Picture By: Gabija Venclovaite If you browse through Lithuanian youngsters profile pictures on Facebook, you will notice many of them sitting in a terrace in a round plastic armchair. The place all those pictures were taken is called Swedbank terrace and it is an extremely popular spot to hang out with your friends on weekends or just relax after a long day. The Swedbank terrace is located on the river bank of Neris and beautiful scenery of the river and the old town can be seen from there. What makes this place different and special, is the possibility to grab some snacks before, for example sushi from a sushi bar right next to the terrace and just to sit in a comfy armchair enjoying the sun and fresh weather. Swedbank is also a popular place to take beautiful pictures during the wedding, so sometimes you even have to wait before you can actually come to the surrounding fence and enjoy the view! So grab some food, grab your friends and come! Don't forget your camera because you don't want to be the only one NOT taking pictures. Swedbank terrace Konstitucijos ave. 20a Center & New town Relaxing Free 24 hours daily www.spottedbylocals.com/vilnius Last updated: 1 August 2012