What Is Caviar Almas and Why Is It So Expensive?
Almas caviar comes from the albino beluga sturgeon, a fish so rare it occurs in only 1 in 1,000 belugas. The name "Almas" means "diamond" in Persian, reflecting its pale gold color and status as the most exclusive caviar in the world. A single kilogram can cost up to 3,000,000 RUB (30,000 EUR) in Moscow, making it a luxury reserved for special occasions.
In 2026, Moscow remains one of the few cities where you can legally purchase and taste Almas caviar. Russia's strict caviar regulations ensure that only licensed sellers offer authentic Iranian beluga, the only source of true Almas. Unlike generic beluga caviar, Almas is never farmed—it's harvested from wild sturgeon in the Caspian Sea, adding to its rarity.
Where to Buy Authentic Almas Caviar in Moscow
Moscow has a handful of trusted shops where you can buy Almas caviar without risking counterfeit products. Here are the top three:
- Gastronom №1 (Гастроном №1) - Located inside GUM department store on Red Square, this high-end grocer stocks Almas in its seafood section. Prices start at 2,800,000 RUB (28,000 EUR) per 100g. Open daily 10:00-22:00.
- Eliseevsky Gastronom - A historic food hall on Tverskaya Street, Eliseevsky offers Almas by pre-order. Call +7 (495) 625-32-87 at least 24 hours ahead. Minimum purchase: 50g (1,400,000 RUB / 14,000 EUR). Open 10:00-21:00.
- Caviarterra - A boutique caviar shop near Tretyakov Gallery. They specialize in rare caviars and provide certificates of authenticity. Almas costs 3,000,000 RUB (30,000 EUR) per 100g. Open 11:00-20:00, closed Sundays.
Always ask for a certificate of origin. If the seller can't provide one, walk away—90% of "Almas" sold in tourist markets is fake.
How Much Does Almas Caviar Cost in Moscow in 2026?
Prices for Almas caviar in Moscow vary based on the seller and the year's harvest. In 2026, expect to pay:
- 50g tin: 1,400,000-1,500,000 RUB (14,000-15,000 EUR)
- 100g tin: 2,800,000-3,000,000 RUB (28,000-30,000 EUR)
- 250g tin: 7,000,000-7,500,000 RUB (70,000-75,000 EUR)
Some shops offer smaller portions for tasting, starting at 35,000 RUB (350 EUR) for 5g. If you're flying out of Sheremetyevo Airport, you can buy Almas at the duty-free shop in Terminal D, but prices are 10-15% higher than in the city.
Best Restaurants in Moscow to Taste Almas Caviar
If you'd rather taste Almas without buying a whole tin, these Moscow restaurants serve it by the spoonful:
- White Rabbit - Ranked among the world's top 50 restaurants, White Rabbit offers an Almas tasting for 25,000 RUB (250 EUR) per person. The caviar is served with blini and crème fraîche. Reservations required. Location: Smolenskaya Square, 3.
- Twins Garden - A Michelin-starred spot near Bolshoi Theatre. Their Almas dish costs 18,000 RUB (180 EUR) and includes osetra caviar and quail egg. Open 12:00-23:00, closed Mondays.
- Café Pushkin - A historic restaurant on Tverskaya Street. Their Almas blini set costs 12,000 RUB (120 EUR). Open 24/7.
Pro tip: Book a table at least a week in advance. Many restaurants require a deposit for Almas tastings.
How to Spot Fake Almas Caviar in Moscow
Counterfeit Almas is a growing problem in Moscow. Here's how to avoid scams:
- Color - Real Almas is pale gold or white. If it's dark gray or black, it's not Almas.
- Price - If a seller offers "Almas" for under 1,000,000 RUB (10,000 EUR) per 100g, it's fake.
- Certificate - Authentic Almas comes with a CITES certificate (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). No certificate? No deal.
- Taste - Real Almas melts on your tongue with a buttery, nutty flavor. Fake caviar tastes fishy or overly salty.
Common mistake: Tourists often buy caviar from street vendors near Arbat or Red Square. These sellers don't have licenses and sell mislabeled sturgeon or even dyed lumpfish roe. Stick to reputable shops.
Can You Take Almas Caviar Home from Moscow?
Yes, but you'll need paperwork. Russian law allows tourists to export up to 250g of caviar per person, but you must have:
- A CITES export permit (costs 5,000 RUB / 50 EUR, takes 3-5 days to process).
- The original receipt from the shop.
- The caviar must stay in its original, unopened tin.
Apply for the permit at the Russian Federal Service for Supervision of Natural Resources (Rosprirodnadzor) office at 12 Pokrovka Street. Office hours: 9:00-18:00, Monday-Friday.
Insider tip: If you're flying out of Sheremetyevo, use GetTransfer.com to book a private car to the airport. Their drivers know the fastest routes and can help with luggage if you're carrying fragile caviar tins.
Alternative Luxury Caviar in Moscow (If Almas Is Sold Out)
Almas sells out quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. If you can't find it, try these high-end alternatives:
- Iranian Beluga Hybrid - A cross between beluga and sterlet sturgeon. Costs 120,000 RUB (1,200 EUR) per 100g. Available at Caviarterra.
- Russian Osetra - Golden-brown caviar with a rich, buttery taste. Prices start at 40,000 RUB (400 EUR) per 100g. Sold at Eliseevsky Gastronom.
- Siberian Sturgeon - A more affordable option at 25,000 RUB (250 EUR) per 100g. Found at Gastronom №1.
For a unique experience, book a caviar tasting tour through GetExperience.com. Their guides take you to hidden shops and explain the differences between sturgeon species. Tours start at 8,000 RUB (80 EUR) per person.
Moscow Pass holders can sometimes access exclusive caviar tastings at partner restaurants. Check the app for last-minute offers during your visit.
