Dining Etiquette
Although the Russians don't believe they're superstitious, they are the exact opposite so before arriving for dinner there's at least one superstition you must be aware of. As you arrive to a Russian's house for dinner, don't even think about offering your hand to them until you have completely crossed the threshold. The arrival, however is the most complicated part of dinner.
Arrive on time and with a cake; enter the house or apartment completely, then offer to shake hands. After this you must remove your shoes and you're ready to move on. You will most likely be treated as an honored guest and you should return this favor by dressing nicely. If you are male you are expected to socialize with the other men, if you are female you should offer to help prepare the meal and the invitation will almost certainly be accepted. Men who offer to help in the kitchen are commonly laughed at and if you make it into the kitchen you will most certainly be kicked out with a nervousness that you are crossing a cultural barrier.
Once the meal is served, eat in the continental style (fork in the left hand, knife in the right), keep your hands within sight (but don't put your elbows on the table), and wait to be served. Russians tend to serve the oldest or most honored person first so wait until they determine your status has arrived.
To continue on the differing roles for each sex, women don't cut bread nor do they pour drinks; the men must take on these roles so if you see a woman's drink empty fill it up and if you are a woman, it won't be long before a fellow diner fills your glass. Before emptying your glass though, you have to start drinking and before that begins you must wait for a toast, which is typically first given by the host.
It is considered rude to turn down food or to clean your plate. Try everything offered to you and once you're finished eating, leave a little food on the plate to show that the amount served was more than enough; this is a great compliment to the host. The only exceptions to this are that you must finish your bread and your alcoholic drinks.
If dining in a restaurant, the host or inviter is expected to pay. If you are a guest, you are expected to offer to pay, but this offer will most likely be turned down.
Tipping is not common in Russia and after experiencing the standard poor service nearly everywhere you won't be inclined to tip anyway. The only exception to this rule is in nice restaurants catered to foreigners, particularly in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Service in these locations substantially improves and tips are expected in the form of about 10% for a meal.
Drinks
Vodka
All popular non-alcoholic drinks are available in Russia and they have a great selection of juices. Tea is among the most popular drinks in the country, as is mineral water, both still and carbonated water.
However, Russia is first and foremost known for their vodkas. There are hundreds of local vodkas distilled in the country, but in today's culture, beer is more commonly drunk. At celebrations though, the traditional vodka dominates. The country also has numerous other drinks, including international beers, wines, and hard liquors.
The tap water in Russia should not be consumed because in many places it is not safe.