In Tomsk, a city steeped in history and culture, a bold new gastronomic project has emerged — the Receptor restobar. Designed by Elena Rybalkina, founder of LeafLaurelbyRybalkina, the interior delicately balances the authentic atmosphere of a 19th-century building with contemporary accents.
At its core, the concept draws inspiration from biology, centering on the idea of receptors — sensory cells that respond to stimuli and transmit signals to the nervous system. “We envisioned the restobar as a playground for the senses — a space designed to awaken both taste and visual receptors,” says Elena. The result is a multi-layered interior where the past intertwines with the impulses of the present.
Set within a historic red-brick basement with vaulted ceilings and arched windows, the space follows the rhythm of its architecture. Collaborating closely with restorers, Elena revived the original arched window openings and accentuated the geometry of the vaults, crafting a seamless interplay of curves. During renovation, layers of aged paint were uncovered — rather than conceal these traces of history, the designer chose to embrace them, transforming the textured walls into a striking design feature. Traditional lath ceilings were covered with transparent polycarbonate, infused with soft backlighting in Receptor’s signature red and green hues.
Spatial flow and zoning
Receptor unfolds across three distinct zones — the central hall, the wine room, and the street food hall — each with its own identity yet seamlessly connected. It’s a place designed for lingering: from leisurely breakfasts to business lunches, and evenings with a glass of wine or a book from the bar’s collection.
The 72 m² central hall and 42 m² wine room are envisioned in a light, neutral palette, fostering a calm and welcoming ambiance. A subtle leitmotif runs throughout the design — the egg, a nod to the investors’ other business in poultry farming. The organic curves and muted tones of an eggshell inspired custom-made furniture and decorative elements.
An unexpected artistic highlight emerges from the textures revealed beneath the old plaster. “The rhythmic chips reminded me of a hen’s speckled plumage, so I decided to preserve this natural ornament,” shares Elena.
More than a restobar: a cultural hub
Beyond its gastronomic appeal, Receptor serves as a dynamic cultural platform — hosting rotating art exhibitions, offering coworking areas, and featuring a curated library stocked with magazines on fashion, cuisine, art, and lifestyle.
Art plays a defining role in shaping the restobar’s identity. The permanent collection includes ceramic objects and rugs from LeafLaurelbyRybalkina’s signature line, whimsical chick illustrations by emerging artist Diva from Parking, and life-sized glass sculptures of jamón and ribs by Tamara Shabanova. A touch of irony runs through the works of Ekaterina Belyavskaya, who humorously reinterprets everyday themes.
A fusion of history, art, and sensory experience
Blending heritage, sensory exploration, and artistic expression, Receptor redefines the concept of a restobar — inviting guests to savor not only exquisite flavors but also the vibrant culture and creative energy of Tomsk.
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