We have left on vacation for two weeks and meanwhile a new place popped-up in our neighborhood (not necessarily always a good thing). However, in a predominately gentrified neighborhood, it is nice to see a new place calling back the roots of Little Poland. "Pierożek" (a singular, sweetened way for a "Pieróg" is a Pierogi (already plural) place. "Pierogi (/proi/ pih-ROH-ghee) are filled dumplings of Central and Eastern European origin, made by wrapping unleavened dough around a savory or sweet filling and cooking in boiling water, or pan-frying." - Wikipedia. As my boyfriend is a big enthusiast of Pierogi, we could not wait to check out this place. So arriving at the airport the night before, we have decided to lunch there the next day at its soft opening.
Classic looking clean-cut storefront reads the name of the restaurant, displays an adorable graphic of pierożek and states "Authentic Handmade Pierogi". Walking in one feels the warmth of the interior. Light green-white walls and sections of brick composing well with light, wooden wainscotting gives the place a very homey feeling. Nice and subtle fixtures visible on the wall share space with traditional Polish Paper Cuts. Colorful patterns also seep onto the pilows located on the window-seat. Taking a peak towards the back of the restaurant one can see right into the pierogi-production plant :) Which I would say, is just one more part of an exciting eating experience. Although currently closed, this joint also has a backyard.
But let's get to the food. After a lengthy debate on which pierogi to pick (totally our fault, as we did appreciate a positively-basic focus of the place on the most typical of Pierogi types), we have decided to go with 3 portions: 1 portion of Meat (as per the recommendation of our uber-nice waitress, who was a sweet-heart), Savory Pierogi Mix (Sauerkraut & Mushroom and Ruskie) and Sweet Pierogi Mix (Blueberry and Strawberry). My boyfriend decided to go with a cup of Red Borscht for a drink and I went with a Latte. We have inquired whether the pierogi come boiled or fried and we were informed that currently, they are only available boiled, which I was not too excited about as I prefer them fried when savory. Since I went with the sweet type for the majority of my portion (which actually taste better boiled) I did not get too grumpy about that fact. Coffee and borscht arrived first. Borch had a very traditional flavor and a pleasant fruity twist. Coffee tasted nice and strong, basically, "authentic". Just a few minutes later the waitress brought over two plates with the savory-type of the "dumplings" which came with a side of sour cream and garlic sauce (delicious!!!, if you like garlic, and I love it). Food came on beautifully and traditionally decorated authentic Boleslawiec table-setting. You can check out some of its examples here: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/48132289744661852/?lp=true Soon after we got our serving of fruity pierogi with a side of sweet creamy sauce and we were ready to enjoy our treats. They were all nicely filled and fluffy. Meat, which I usually take out (I know, I know I am an adult...) was delicious, soft and melted in your mouth (50 point to the waitress for her recommendation). I also tried these with the garlic sauce and it was a hit (Receiving a judgemental look from a connoisseur across the table, who summed up that there is no need for a sauce. I agreed, but I also could not resist to try it.) Sauerkraut and mushroom (my favorite) were nicely spiced up a flavorful. Ruskie, which is the least of my favorite types, was nice, but not overwhelming. Summing up the savory set the only request we would have is to add some fried bacon to the onion & butter dressing. As for the strawberry, I greatly enjoyed it with the sweet sauce. They contained full fruit chunks, which I saw for the first time, as I always had them "ground", but it was a pleasant surprise. Blueberry pierogi turned out a little sour, it was good to have the sauce for balance. As soon as the pierogi appeared, so they were gone. Wrapping things up... We were more than content with our experience. Food was delicious and authentic, people working there sweet and decor sweetly-pleasant. Being polish I can attest to the place being ethnically correct. So I highly recommend for anyone who is Pierogi-curious or Pierogi-hungry to visit this place. And most importantly it is Tom-Approved, and he knows his pierogi. I don't think he would go as far as saying they are as good as his mom's... but they come as close second ;) read more