Paul Adie (X) Mar 13, 2009:

Russian usage All I can add is that in Russian 'blini' can refer to the small pancakes served with sour cream and caviar and the larger crepe-style pancakes that are stuffed with meat/veg. I miss them :) No idea about American usage.

Noni Gilbert Riley Mar 13, 2009:

Denny's Kathryn's Denny's argument is awfully persuasive! However, I am not going to risk peer comments since I do not reside in the US (but would love to go straight to a good old-fashioned diner right now and order breakfast!), and don't have significant Russian/Ukranian links that would justify an influential opion here!

Kathryn Litherland Mar 13, 2009:

blini vs. blintz Well, google seems to think "blini" is more popular than "blintzes"! I think blintz is most typically expected to be cheese-filled (and often topped with fruit), while "blini" is is often served with sour cream and caviar.

Obviously, "blintz" is more associated with Jewish foods, while "blini" is more associated with direct Russian/Ukraine roots. And Google be damned, I think you're more likely to find people familiar with blintzes among a broader range of the population, as they are a common menu item at inexpensive family restaurants of the "24-hour breakfast" model--International House of Pancakes, Denny's, etc.