Tiraspol's dining scene is modest but authentic. The food is a mixture of Romanian, Ukrainian, Russian, and Moldovan: borscht, pelmeni dumplings, mamaliga (polenta), miteiti (grilled minced meat rolls), and placinte (pastries filled with cheese or potato). Prices are low by any standard; a full meal with drinks rarely costs more than the equivalent of $10.
Kumanek is the city's most recommended restaurant, known for traditional Ukrainian dishes with a local twist. Café Volna on the riverfront is a no-frills Soviet-decorated local café — Lenin watches you eat — that is popular with residents and probably the cheapest option in town. The Green Market near Suvorov Square sells fresh produce, dairy, and local specialities; buy some Transnistrian cognac while you're there.
Local beer is cheap and acceptable. The main spirit to drink is KVINT brandy, which should be sampled at the source.