A zakuski (from the Russian закуски zakouski) is a kind of traditional Russian hors d'oeuvre served before meals. Usually presented buffet style, it often consists of cured meats and fishes, various pickled vegetables such as beets, cucumbers, and garlic, mixed salads, caviar, and breads.
These appetizers are often present at parties or receptions, especially in Armenia and Russia. Usually zakuskis are served away from the dining room.
This word is also used in the field of journalism to describe short articles on the front page of a magazine or newspaper that are meant to “hook” the reader.