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Photo courtesy of Pietrzyk Pierogi
Now that we are into the winter season in the Metro Detroit area, we thought it would be a great time to read up on some great winter comfort food from across the pond. Don’t worry, you won’t have to book a flight to Europe. Metro Detroit has some great Polish restaurants, serving authentic Polish meals daily. From the iconic pierogi to the savory kielbasa, Polish food in Metro Detroit is not just delicious and comforting; it’s a celebration of heritage and community (for even more comfort food for chilly days, check out these restaurants). Did your favorite spot make our list?
POLISH VILLAGE CAFE
2990 Yemans Street, Hamtramck
Polish Village Cafe has been a Hamtramck staple since 1979, and as a tri-level family-owned restaurant in its second-generation leadership, there’s no wondering as to why. This spot offers authentic Polish classics, like Schnitzel, which is pan-fried pieces of ground pork rolled in breadcrumbs and served with mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, and vegetables, along with a salad or soup of the day. You can also order the Polish Plate, which includes stuffed cabbage, potato and cheese pierogi, Kielbasa, sauerkraut, and mashed potatoes if you’d like to try a bit of everything. The Polish Village Cafe also offers an extensive selection of Polish beers to enjoy along with your meal.
POLONUS RESTAURANT
1744 Biddle Avenue, Wyandotte
Heart and family are at the center of this spot. “Polonus Restaurant stands as a testament to the timeless allure of authentic Polish cuisine and heartfelt family traditions,” shares Kaity Mucha, co-owner. “Established in 1988 by brothers Roman and Andrzej, this cherished establishment holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The story of Polonus Restaurant is one of dedication and love, as the brothers painstakingly constructed the very building from the ground up, brick by brick.”
“At the heart of Polonus’s culinary excellence is the influence of their beloved mother, Zofia, who served as the master chef and brought with her a treasure trove of cherished recipes from her native Poland. To this day, the restaurant remains faithful to these recipes, and the menu is a testament to the rich tapestry of Polish cuisine, boasting an array of scratch-made delights. From the delectable pierogi and stuffed cabbage to the hearty city chicken, wiener schnitzel, and potato pancakes, each dish is a flavorful homage to the culinary heritage of Poland.”
“Beyond the exceptional cuisine, what truly sets Polonus apart is its status as a 3rd generation family-run business, where every guest is welcomed with genuine warmth and hospitality. Stepping into the restaurant is akin to being enveloped in a comforting embrace, with the cozy interior and the nostalgic strains of Polish music creating an atmosphere that feels just like Grandma’s kitchen. For those who seek an authentic and heartfelt culinary experience, Polonus Restaurant offers a warm embrace and a taste of Poland that lingers long after the meal has ended.”
NEW PALACE BAKERY
9833 Joseph Campau Avenue, Hamtramck
Family-owned for over 100 years, New Palace Bakery, also known as Paczki Headquarters, specializes in Polish-style baking. From paczki and cookies to pies and wedding cakes, New Palace Bakery makes it all. Pick up fresh loaves of bread, morning pastries, or any other sweet that catches your eye. Make sure to keep this spot in mind for Paczki Day, which falls on February 13th this year.
PIETRZYK PIEROGI
1429 Gratiot Avenue, #109, Detroit
Located inside Gratiot Central Market, Pietrzyk Pierogi offers pierogi, along with kielbasa, soups like dill pickle and potato beer cheese, potato pancakes, and a whole lot of pierogi-themed merchandise. Founder Erica Piertrzyk shares, “Pietrzyk Pierogi started very organically as a way to feed friends. It’s grown into something much larger but the basics still remain the same. Use quality ingredients to make quality products in an atmosphere people can grow within and do it from a place of love. Hence our slogan, “Make Pierogi, Eat, Love.” As for the pierogi, choose from varieties like The Becky, with jalapeno, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese, Spin Me Right with spinach, artichoke, garlic, and more, to the classic O-G with potato and cheese.
POLONIA
2934 Yemans Street, Hamtramck
Polonia is known for its full menu of traditional and gourmet Polish cuisine, and was even featured in a 2009 episode on Anthony Bourdain’s show “No Reservations”. Here, you can find classic Polish dishes, like stuffed cabbage, the city chicken dinner, and Czarcie Jadlo, a giant potato pancake with mushrooms, cheese, and tomato sauce. While dining at Polonia, don’t forget to try the smoked Polish sausage, kraut, or crepes as well.
This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on January 6, 2017.
