When you’re searching for a Ukrainian restaurant in NYC, you’re not just looking for a meal — you’re chasing warmth, comfort, and culture. And at Veselka, that’s exactly what you’ll find.
Located in the heart of the East Village, Veselka has been serving up authentic Ukrainian dishes since 1954. Whether you’re a New Yorker on the hunt for a neighborhood gem or a traveler looking for food near Grand Central Station, this iconic spot is worth the trip. One bite of their handmade pierogi or a spoonful of beet-red borscht and you’ll understand why Veselka has become more than a restaurant — it’s a tradition.
This isn’t just about dining. It’s about discovering flavors that tell a story, from family recipes passed down through generations to dishes rooted in the resilience of a vibrant culture. Welcome to Veselka, your table is ready.
From Newsstand to NYC Institution
The story of Veselka begins not with a kitchen, but a humble newsstand. In 1954, Ukrainian immigrants Volodymyr and Olha Darmochwal opened a small corner shop in Manhattan’s East Village. In the wake of war and displacement, they planted roots by sharing their heritage through food and what started as a modest business soon became a lifeline for the community.
Over the decades, Veselka has grown, expanded, and evolved but never lost its soul. Passed down through generations, it’s now lovingly run by their grandson, Jason Birchard, who continues the family’s commitment to tradition, authenticity, and hospitality.
Beyond being a beloved eatery, Veselka is a pillar of the Ukrainian community in NYC, supporting local churches, organizations like Razom for Ukraine, and refugee relief efforts. Its legacy isn’t just etched into the East Village — it’s woven into the very fabric of New York City.
Authentic Ukrainian Comfort Food, Made with Heart
At Veselka, comfort is handcrafted. Every day, the kitchen hums with care and tradition as over 3,000 pierogi are made by hand—each filled, pinched, and folded with generations of love behind them. But the soul of Veselka extends far beyond dumplings. Here’s what makes this Ukrainian restaurant a go-to for true, time-honored flavor:
1. Potato Pancake
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, our potato pancakes are golden-fried perfection. Made from shredded potatoes and onions, they come with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for that classic sweet-savory balance.
- Pierogi
The heart of Veselka. Whether filled with potato and cheese, meat, sauerkraut, or seasonal fruits, our pierogi are handmade daily. Boiled, pan-fried, or both—each bite is a pocket of Ukrainian tradition.
- Borscht
Vibrant and earthy, our borscht is made the traditional way with tender beets and slow-simmered pork. Served hot in winter and chilled during summer, it’s more than soup, it’s a celebration in a bowl.
- Chicken Noodle Soup
The definition of comfort. Veselka’s chicken noodle soup is rich with house-made broth, tender chicken, and soft egg noodles. It’s the kind of bowl that feels like a hug from your grandmother.
- Medovyk (Honey Cake)
Save room for dessert. Medovyk, our signature honey cake, is a multi-layered masterpiece—lightly spiced, delicately sweet, and generously frosted. A heavenly finish to any meal.
Whether you’re gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan, Veselka offers inclusive options to ensure everyone feels welcome—and well-fed.
Quick Hop from Midtown – Why Veselka Is Worth the Trip
Craving something more meaningful than your average Midtown lunch spot? If you’re searching for food near Grand Central Station, it’s time to hop on the subway and head downtown to where real flavor lives — Veselka, in the East Village.
Whether you’re between meetings or exploring NYC for the first time, Veselka is your escape from the corporate crowd. It’s where pierogi are handmade daily and soups are simmered the old-fashioned way — with care, community, and culture in every spoonful.
Skip the takeout chains. Come eat like a local. Come home to Veselka.
Take Veselka Home – Delivery and Nationwide Shipping
You don’t need to be in Manhattan to enjoy a Veselka meal — now, Veselka comes to you.
Whether you’re curled up on the couch in Brooklyn or missing a taste of New York from miles away, Veselka offers both local delivery and nationwide shipping. Craving a box of fresh pierogi? Want to surprise a loved one with medovyk honey cake or a bundle of Ukrainian essentials? It’s all just a few clicks away.
Locals can order direct from Veselka’s website or app for fast delivery—perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends in. And for those beyond city limits, Veselka’s nationwide shipping brings a taste of East Village tradition to your doorstep.
From handmade pierogi to branded merch, you’re not just ordering food — you’re bringing home a piece of New York’s Ukrainian soul.
Why Veselka Is More Than a Restaurant
Veselka isn’t just a Ukrainian restaurant—it’s a living thread in New York City’s cultural fabric. Every dish tells a story, rooted in tradition, resilience, and the deep desire to share home with others. From the first pierogi made in 1954 to the thousands prepared daily today, Veselka has never been about food alone, it’s about connection. Explore the full menu, place your order, or come visit us in person.
