Lithuanian Cold Soup Šaltibarščiai Added to the Official Restaurant Menu at EXPO 2025

On 13 April 2025, the global exhibition EXPO 2025 will officially open its doors in Osaka, Japan, bringing together more than 160 countries and international organisations. With an anticipated 28 million visitors, attendees will have a unique opportunity to experience one of Lithuania’s most distinctive and beloved dishes – šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup).

The dish will be featured on the menu of Kura Sushi, the official restaurant of EXPO 2025. It has been meticulously recreated by the restaurant’s chef using an authentic Lithuanian recipe, thoughtfully adapted to suit Japanese taste preferences. The vibrant pink soup has already caught the attention of Japanese media, which has produced a special television feature on its preparation.

The Kura Sushi restaurant will showcase culinary creations from 70 different countries, all carefully selected by EXPO organisers based on each dish’s cultural value and appeal to international visitors. Lithuania’s inclusion is a significant recognition of the country’s culinary heritage – made possible through the dedicated efforts of the Embassy of Lithuania in Japan and Ambassador Aurelijus Zykas.

“I believe there’s no better choice for Japan’s summer during EXPO 2025 than Lithuanian šaltibarščiai. This refreshing and healthy soup is perfectly suited to the hot Japanese climate. Its unusual colour captures attention and sparks curiosity. It’s no surprise that among the six standout dishes chosen for the initial EXPO 2025 menu, our pink soup was one of them. I am confident that EXPO 2025 will be an excellent opportunity for šaltibarščiai to become a well-known and loved dish in Japan – just as sushi has in Lithuania,” said Ambassador Zykas.

“Šaltibarščiai are deeply rooted in Lithuanian culinary tradition. They are more than just food – they are part of our cultural heritage and a source of national pride. This dish truly serves as one of Lithuania’s culinary calling cards. I am delighted that, during EXPO 2025, we will have the opportunity to introduce millions of international visitors to this uniquely coloured, globally recognisable, and highly regarded Lithuanian speciality,” added Ambassador Lina Antanavičienė, Lithuania’s Commissioner General for EXPO 2025.