High above the Lithuanian capital, one of Europe's highest revolving restaurants is back in motion. The newly reopened Milky Way at Vilnius TV Tower pairs contemporary Lithuanian cuisine with a wine list inspired by altitude—and ever-changing panoramic views.
Perched 165 metres above Vilnius, Milky Way (Paukščių Takas) once again welcomes diners following an extensive refurbishment. The restaurant completes a full 360-degree rotation every 55 minutes, revealing sweeping views across the city and beyond, while its new culinary concept places local ingredients firmly in the spotlight.
Chef Aleksandras Buiko reinterprets Lithuanian classics with a lighter, contemporary touch. Seasonal produce from local farms—from mushrooms and herbs to berries and crisp cucumbers—features throughout the menu. Signature dishes include trout with sea buckthorn, black bread crumble and dill, alongside fish served with traditional švilpikai potato dumplings.
The wine programme is built around an unusual idea: every bottle comes from vineyards situated at elevations comparable to the restaurant's own height above sea level. Lithuanian producers complement the selection through the concept of "northern elevation", showcasing how cool climates, long summer days and short growing seasons influence freshness, acidity and structure.
Standing 326.4 metres tall, the Vilnius TV Tower is Lithuania's highest structure and among Europe's tallest television towers. Beyond its panoramic restaurant, the landmark has evolved into a multifaceted visitor destination, offering the Edge Walk experience along the exterior platform, two panoramic apartments at 175 metres and the permanent Fight for Freedom exhibition, commemorating the events of 13 January 1991. A newly commissioned fresco by Lithuanian artist Jurgis Tarabilda adds a contemporary cultural note to the renewed venue.
