Sailing back across the Baltic Sea, my journey took me to Riga, Latvia—a city steeped in history waiting to be discovered.
![First view of the city.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/First-view-of-the-city.-1024x576.jpg)
![Our boat entered via the industrial area.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/Out-boat-entered-via-the-industrial-area.-1024x576.jpg)
![Tourists & locals having beer for breakfast - it was 0945](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/Tourists-locals-having-beer-for-breakfast-it-was-0945-1024x576.jpg)
![That ivy has probably been there a long time.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/That-ivy-has-probably-been-there-a-long-time.-1024x576.jpg)
![Shortcut thru the park.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/Shortcut-thru-the-park.-1024x576.jpg)
![I wonder whats down there.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/I-wonder-whats-down-there.-1024x576.jpg)
As I explored the centuries-old town, I marveled at the unique steeples and diverse cultures that make each European city so enchanting. Riga seemed a bit quieter than its counterparts, with fewer tourists in sight.
![Spotted this little tour boat during my walk.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/Spotted-this-little-tour-boat-during-my-walk.-1024x576.jpg)
![Part of an old castle.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/Part-of-an-old-castle.-1024x576.jpg)
![Entering Old Town.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/Entering-Old-Town.-1024x576.jpg)
![Outdoor seating in Old Town.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/Outdoor-seating-in-Old-Town.-1024x576.jpg)
Stepping into a brewery, I immediately sensed the rich history that permeated its walls. It was evident that this was a place where locals gathered to savor time-honored flavors. Surrounded by only a handful of patrons, I felt a sense of exclusivity as I settled in for a memorable lunch. The meal began with a unique bread accompanied by fragrant oil for dipping. Then, a bowl of sauerkraut soup was presented before me, and its tangy aroma tickled, and the first spoonful had me craving more. Curiosity piqued, I eagerly awaited the main course—the chef’s special from Latvia. A plate arrived adorned with a cover, concealing a mystery that was about to be revealed. As the lid was lifted, a white meat delicacy coated in a light cream sauce emerged. Served alongside pickled onions, rye bread with delightful toppings, and fresh salad greens, I was presented with sliced bull testicles!
![Sliced bull.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/Time-to-man-up-and-eat-some-bull-thingies.-1024x650.jpg)
![Lunch special in two languages.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/Lunch-special-in-two-languages.-1024x403.jpg)
![Sauerkraut soup!](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/Saurkraut-soup-1024x576.jpg)
![Todays special in English.](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/in-English-1024x247.jpg)
I was experiencing the joys of adventure travel…combined with adventurous eating. Satisfied with my meal, I requested the restaurant’s business card—a cherished memento of my culinary adventures and habit of mine for many years. The owner then invited me inside, he wanted to showcase his medium-scale brewery operation, a testament to the brewery’s commitment to crafting quality beverages. As we conversed, he couldn’t resist sharing his curiosity about my dining experience. In that moment, my lunch transformed into a whimsical memory—one that would elicit laughter and spark intriguing conversations for years to come. Embracing the spirit of adventure, I chuckled at the unexpected twist that Latvia had presented.
My journey to Riga, Latvia, led me to a unique lunch experience at a historic brewery. From the delightful sauerkraut soup to the chef’s special, this meal will forever hold a special place in my heart and palate. Latvian cuisine revealed its eccentric side, providing a tale to share with fellow adventurers. As I bid farewell to Riga, I carried with me not only fond memories but also a sense of wonder and excitement for the next chapter of my explorations.
![](https://benjiharrison.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Latvia-1024x570.png)
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1 Comment
I’m glad you liked the Rocky Mountain oysters. I hope the beer was good too.