At a restaurant in one of Beijing's busiest shopping districts, menus like books of Pushkin's poems sit quietly among beautiful Russian tableware.

A few months ago, poetry lovers from all over the country gathered here to commemorate the 220th anniversary of the birth of Alexander Pushkin, the father of Russian literature.

With the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Russia, which was known as the Soviet Union, 70 years ago, this culturally rich restaurant provides a place for Chinese and Russian people to exchange ideas and experience, not only for poetry lovers but also for staff and diners.

"We collected poem nationwide before the Pushkin's 220th anniversary of birthday. Everyone contributed enthusiastically. The youngest of the participants was only nine, and the oldest 92," Xiao Xiao, the art director of the Pushkin Literature Restaurant, told CGTN.

In addition to Pushkin's poems, the restaurant's bookshelves contain a large collection of Russian literature that guests can take away for free if they really like it.

Russian literature opens a window for Chinese readers to learn about Russian culture, and life in the Chinese capital gives young Russian women who work in Beijing an opportunity to truly experience life in China.

Sandukova Mariia, a woman from St. Petersburg told CGTN, that she loves working here: "Shared bike, 24-hour food delivery apps. Life in Beijing is so very convenient.”

"When I first came to China, I was impressed that the country is so developed. Especially the subways, they are so convenient and so modern," Divina Anastasia, the restaurant's manager, also shared her feelings about Beijing.

Food is the main event which includes fresh Russian rye bread, Borsch, and pirozhiki. Plates of traditional Russian food are served by Russian waitresses.

On the first page of the menu is the famous poem by Pushkin: "If by Life You Were Deceived." At the end of the menu, Xiao added descriptions of food from Chinese and foreign literature.

"Menus are selected from the most classic Russian dishes, also cooked by Russian chefs. Chinese diners can enjoy the authentic taste of Russia here, while Russians in Beijing can also enjoy a bite of home," Xiao told us.

( Video Editor: Zhang Ning.)