Cafe in Rostov Closed, Sparking Dispute Over Pleven Park Concession

Cafe «Lyusya Vparke», which led Rostov authorities to seek repossession of Pleven Park from the concessionaire, has been temporarily closed. A 161.RU correspondent inquired with the company«s head about the reasons.

The establishment has been closed for winter holidays, as indicated by a notice on its entrance door. It is promised to reopen for the summer season, but the exact date remains unknown.

«We just made this decision for now. We might change the concept next year. It»s closed for now, but no final decision has been made. It will reopen, I just can«t say when,»

Authorities signed a concession agreement with MIV in 2003 for 49 years. The company was obligated to develop the park, in exchange for the right to operate businesses there and derive income. LLC «MIV» was registered in 1996. According to the «Kontur.Fokus» system, the company is headed by Maria Prigorodova. It is owned by Ildar Khaziullin, the former owner of the St. Tropez cafe. The company«s revenue in 2024 was 87.6 million rubles (approximately $876,000), with a net profit of 9.2 million rubles (about $92,000).

Earlier, 161.RU reported that Rostov«s Department of Property and Land Relations filed a lawsuit against MIV demanding the cafe be demolished, claiming it was built without approval. The company insisted it was constructed in accordance with an agreement.

In November 2025, it was revealed that the Rostov administration aims to reclaim Pleven Park as city property and is engaged in a legal dispute with the concessionaire. Regional Governor Yuri Slyusar described the park as a «kolkhoz in the southern capital,» stuck in the 1990s.

City Head Alexander Skryabin stated that the concessionaire damaged greenery, overcrowded the historical square with rides, and unauthorizedly installed retail structures. Authorities aim to restore the park to residents in the condition «they are used to and wish to see.»