Table of Contents
Introduction
In the bustling neighborhood of Brunswick East in Melbourne, a hot new restaurant is challenging the stodgy stereotypes of Polish cuisine. Pierogi Pierogi, a market stand known for its delicious Polish dumplings, has now opened a contemporary restaurant called Eat Pierogi Make Love. The restaurant aims to showcase the true breadth and richness of Polish food, going beyond the traditional dishes of potatoes, cabbage, and borscht. With a sleek and modernist cream-hued space, Dominika Sikorska and Guy Daley, the couple behind Pierogi Pierogi, are serving regional dishes, innovative versions of Polish staples, and brighter takes on Soviet-era recipes. This may just be Melbourne’s first contemporary Polish restaurant in over a decade.
Unveiling the True Flavors of Poland
For the past 10 years, the mission of Pierogi Pierogi has been to explore Polish food and culture and understand why it hasn’t gained more popularity. The couple started with a market stall at Queen Victoria’s Night Market before expanding to festivals and eventually securing a deal to sell their frozen dumplings in supermarkets in two states. However, they always had a dream of opening a restaurant that would truly showcase the diverse and delicious flavors of Polish cuisine.
A Casual and Inviting Atmosphere
At Eat Pierogi Make Love, the atmosphere is casual and inviting. The restaurant, designed by Studio Heck, features bar stools, booths, and small plates. While the couple wanted to move away from the concept of sharing, they quickly realized that with a niche cuisine like Polish, everyone wants to try a little bit of everything. Dominika Sikorska, who was born and raised in Poland, wanted to create an authentic yet approachable dining experience for guests.
A Flavorful Journey Through Polish Cuisine
The menu at Eat Pierogi Make Love is a kaleidoscope of techniques, flavors, and regional variations. Collaborating with chef Aleksandra Gladysz, Daley and Sikorska wanted to showcase the rich culinary history of Poland. From traditional dishes to those influenced by the aristocratic way of eating, the communist era, and beyond, Polish cuisine is a melting pot of flavors and influences.
The Star of the Show: Pierogi
Of course, no Polish restaurant would be complete without pierogi. Eat Pierogi Make Love offers five different varieties of these beloved dumplings, including a crowd favorite with potato, jalapeno, and vegan cheese. Pierogi are a symbol of Polish comfort food, and each variety at the restaurant is made with love and attention to detail.
Fresh and Vibrant Flavors
While Polish cuisine is often associated with heavy and hearty dishes, Eat Pierogi Make Love showcases the lighter side of the cuisine. Dishes like pickled herring with red currants on spelt toast and a shot of vodka provide a refreshing start to the meal. The restaurant also offers homemade mountain cheese, brined and smoked, served with cranberry sauce. Sausage dishes are brightened with pickles, horseradish, and tart flavors. Raw salads, including carrot and beetroot, add a fresh and vibrant touch to the menu.
A Love Letter to Poland
The interior design of Eat Pierogi Make Love is a nod to both Soviet-era architecture and design. The deliberately minimal interiors allow the poster art, a tradition that thrived during the communist era, to shine. The restaurant serves as a love letter to Poland, with its modern yet nostalgic ambiance.
Visit Eat Pierogi Make Love
If you’re looking to experience a new side of Polish cuisine, head to Eat Pierogi Make Love in Brunswick East. With its contemporary twist on traditional dishes, innovative flavors, and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the true diversity of Polish food.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the rich culinary heritage of Poland at Eat Pierogi Make Love in Brunswick East. With its modern take on traditional dishes, vibrant flavors, and inviting atmosphere, this contemporary Polish restaurant is a must-visit for food lovers seeking a unique dining experience. Pickled herrings Melbourne is a standout dish on the menu, offering a refreshing and flavorful start to your meal.