Iconic Ukrainian diner serving exceptional borscht & pierogi since 1954. A must-visit for classic comfort food.
Will Hartman reviews Veselka, an East Village Ukrainian restaurant known for its outstanding borscht and pierogi, making it a must-visit for classic comfort food.
Will Hartman reviews Veselka MSG, praising their fried pierogi with farmers' cheese and sour cream as an ideal snack for Madison Square Garden events.
Veselka is an iconic East Village Ukrainian restaurant that has been serving comforting Eastern European fare since 1954. Renowned for its exceptional borscht and a wide array of pierogi, it's a go-to spot for classic Ukrainian dishes. While it has transitioned from a 24-hour establishment, it remains a beloved institution, offering a taste of authentic Ukrainian cuisine in a welcoming diner setting.
Veselka is celebrated for its Ukrainian comfort food, with pierogi and borscht being highly recommended. Customers often praise the savory and bright borscht and the variety of pierogi fillings. Other popular dishes include kielbasa, bigos stew, and beef stroganoff. However, some have found the fried varenyka to be a disappointment as it's deep-fried rather than pan-fried.
"Customers highly recommend Veselka's borscht, particularly the savory and bright veggie borscht, and their various pierogi, especially the short rib and cherry varieties. The kielbasa and beef stroganoff are also highlighted as comforting dishes."
Customers generally have a positive view of Veselka, praising its authentic Ukrainian comfort food, particularly the pierogi and borscht. While some note it's become more expensive, the overall sentiment remains favorable, with many considering it a classic and reliable New York dining spot.
Important Note
While Veselka was once a 24-hour establishment, its operating hours have changed, with a focus shifting to earlier in the day, especially on weekends. Some recent feedback suggests a decline in quality or that other nearby Ukrainian restaurants might offer better value or taste, particularly for pierogi.
"A user has had great Rice Krispie treats from Veselka."
Positive"Veselka is suggested as a place that offers a decent paprikash."
Positive"The commenter suggested Veselka in the East Village for Ukrainian food, noting it is similar to Georgian cuisine."
Positive"Mentions Veselka as a place to eat."
Neutral"This user simply recommended Veselka."
Positive"The original poster has Veselka on their list to try pierogis."
Neutral"Veselka has a lime rickey on their menu, as observed recently."
Positive"Veselka is mentioned as a recommended spot for takeout or a quick meal."
Positive"Veselka is suggested as a place that serves Cherry Lime Rickeys."
Positive"Veselka is recommended for lunch if the weather is bad."
Positive"Veselka is recommended for its Eastern European cuisine."
Neutral"Veselka, a formerly 24-hour spot, now operates from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with potential 24-hour service on weekends."
Neutral"Veselka is mentioned as the place to go for buckwheat pancakes."
Neutral"The user recommends Veselka and suggests ordering a side of pierogies with the pancakes."
Neutral"A commenter suggests that there are better Ukrainian food options available nearby or in South Brooklyn, implying Veselka might not be the best choice."
Neutral"The original poster found Veselka to be a great restaurant."
Positive"The hot Ukrainian Borscht at the East Village Ukrainian Restaurant next to Veselka is considered better than Veselka's version."
Negative"The user expresses love for Veselka and mentions a cool documentary about the restaurant."
Positive"Veselka is a well-known spot; a Wednesday afternoon visit confirmed no line. The veggie borscht was great, with enough dill, better than East Village Meat Market's version, though a full slice of bread was desired."
Positive"Veselka is highlighted as serving the best Ukrainian food in NYC."
Positive