I see a lot of comparisons to things that are nothing like canteens, possibly because most Americans have never been to one (Ikea food court is the closest thin

I see a lot of comparisons to things that are nothing like canteens, possibly because most Americans have never been to one (Ikea food court is the closest thing). Canteens (stolovaya) are alive and well in Russia. Here's how the line-up looks: https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Ml0F97OZu6k/maxresdefault.jpg https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Ml0F97OZu6k/maxresdefault.jpg Here's what your tray might look like at the end: https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/0c/46/f7/cc/photo0jpg.jpg https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/0c/46/f7/cc/... You get charged per item, so it's higher quality than AYCE buffet. There's tons of variety, and you get to see your food before you purchase it. The closest thing I've seen in the US might be Bakeman's restaurant in Seattle, but it was sandwich-focused. The combination of hearty food with a plethora of options and minimal service is not something I've seen in the US. Some college cafeterias or museum dining areas are similar, but usually with less variety.