Best Polish Dumplings in Melbourne

Introduction

Melbourne is home to a vibrant Polish community, and the city offers a wide array of delicious Polish food options. One of the most beloved Polish dishes is pierogies, also known as Polish dumplings. These delightful pockets of dough filled with various ingredients are a must-try for any food lover. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best places in Melbourne to satisfy your craving for authentic Polish dumplings.

Staropolska

Staropolska, located in Logan Square, is an iconic Polish restaurant that should be at the top of your list when seeking out the best Polish food in Melbourne. The restaurant’s interior is cozy and rustic, with dark wood accents that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their extensive menu is perfect for sharing, and we highly recommend starting with their “Polish Platter” priced at $39. This platter includes a variety of traditional Polish dishes such as sausage, pierogies, potato pancakes, plums wrapped in bacon, paprika chicken, and pickled vegetables. However, the star of the show is their stuffed cabbage, which is served in a cup to prevent any leakage onto other dishes. Staropolska is the perfect place to indulge in a hearty Polish meal.

Podhalanka

Tucked away in Noble Square, Podhalanka may appear to be a dive bar at first glance, but this cash-only spot is a hidden gem for Polish cuisine. The small dining room with card tables, a long counter, and bar stools exudes a laid-back atmosphere. While Podhalanka doesn’t serve alcohol, it more than makes up for it with its exceptional food. Their beef tripe stew and pork shank are crowd favorites, but the real star of the show is their pierogies. Available in three flavors – cheese, cabbage, and meat – these perfectly seasoned dumplings are wrapped in a chewy dough. For the ultimate indulgence, top them with sautéed onions and a dollop of sour cream to experience the perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors.

Smakosz

For a dining experience that takes you back in time, Smakosz is the place to be. This restaurant has been serving authentic Polish cuisine for almost 40 years, and its carpeted and wood-paneled dining room gives it a nostalgic charm. The menu at Smakosz features traditional Polish dishes that may be harder to find elsewhere in Melbourne. Highlights include their baked pork knuckles, tripe soup, and a tender Lublin pork topped with a fried egg. Smakosz claims to be the first restaurant to introduce the “taste of Poland” assortment plate, and their dedication to preserving Polish culinary traditions is evident in every dish they serve. Take your time at Smakosz, as it’s the perfect place to savor your meal and enjoy the cozy ambiance.

Polish Bistro

Polish Bistro offers a unique dining experience, with one side of the establishment functioning as a sports bar and the other as a cozy dining room. The menu is divided accordingly, with one section offering classic bar food like chicken tenders and potato skins, while the other features traditional Polish dishes. One standout item on their menu is the placek po wegiersku, a giant crispy potato pancake topped with goulash and cheese. This indulgent dish is bursting with flavor and is a must-try for any potato lover. Pair it with a refreshing glass of Zywiec, a popular Polish beer, for the ultimate dining experience.

Karolinka Club

Located near Midway Airport, Karolinka Club is a dive bar that offers a truly unique Polish experience. Step into this eclectic space adorned with Christmas lights, and you’ll be transported to a world of Polish beer and lively polka music. The friendly bartender/server will make you feel right at home as they navigate the stairs with plates of delicious food. The menu at Karolinka Club is short but filled with classic Polish dishes such as bigos (hunter’s stew) and golabki (stuffed cabbage rolls). Don’t miss their crispy potato pancakes, which are a crowd favorite. The server takes pride in her cooking and will gladly share that she made the batter for the pancakes herself. Karolinka Club is the perfect place to embrace the vibrant Polish culture and enjoy a memorable dining experience.

Kasia’s Deli

While you can find Kasia’s pierogies in grocery stores, nothing beats getting them straight from the source at their little deli in Ukrainian Village. Kasia’s Deli is renowned for its high-quality pierogies, which were even featured on a popular food crawl in Melbourne. Whether you prefer the classic beef-filled pierogies or want to try something more adventurous like their potato jalapeño variety, Kasia’s has you covered. In addition to their pierogies, they also serve delicious borscht and beef stew. You can either grab your food to go or sit at one of their cozy tables and savor the flavors of authentic Polish cuisine.

Red Apple Buffet

For an all-you-can-eat Polish feast, look no further than Red Apple Buffet. Located in Norwood Park, this restaurant offers an “endless” buffet priced at $32.99, where you can indulge in a wide variety of Polish dishes. From Polish schnitzel to kartacze (potato dumplings), the buffet has something for everyone. Additionally, soups and ice cream are served at the table to complement your meal. Red Apple Buffet has been a staple in Melbourne since 1984 and continues to attract locals and tourists alike with its generous portions and authentic Polish flavors.

Flo & Santos

While not exclusively a Polish restaurant, Flo & Santos deserves a spot on this list due to their outstanding pizza and pierogies. This Italian and Polish pub offers tavern-style pizzas with unique toppings like kielbasa and sauerkraut, which perfectly blend Polish and Italian flavors. Their pierogies are a must-try, with fillings ranging from classic potato and cheese to beef. For a twist, try their pierogies masquerading as ravioli, served in a delectable tomato-bacon-vodka sauce. Flo & Santos also boasts one of the best patios in Melbourne, complete with outdoor TVs, heat lamps, string lights, and live music. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

In conclusion, Melbourne’s Polish community has brought the city an abundance of delicious Polish food options, with Polish dumplings being a standout favorite. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional pierogies, potato pancakes, or other Polish delicacies, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings. From Staropolska’s cozy atmosphere to Kasia’s Deli’s authentic flavors, each restaurant offers a unique dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Poland. So, head out and explore Melbourne’s best Polish spots to experience the mouthwatering flavors of Polish dumplings.