Borsch, Vodka & Tears
Editorial
As you enter the warm, inviting, candlelit interior, first, before anything else, comes the vodka; before the borsch, and hopefully before any tears. The range is extensive and unique, with most vodka imported directly from Poland and guaranteed to take the sting out of a chilly winter evening. The names may be a mouthful, but accommodating descriptions help you find the ideal cocktail infusion - bison grass, wild berries or honey for example. Or start the night with a bang - what better way than a shot of vodka - before progressing to some traditional Polish fare.
The menu here is almost as extensive as the drink selection, with food served all day from 9am. The soups are great and almost a meal in themselves. The Polish borsch is a clear, beautifully flavoured beetroot broth. Beef it up with some uszka (beef or mushroom dumplings) or opt for the heartier Russian version with vegetables, beans, bacon and sour cream, or gypsy soup with ham and smoky sausage. To follow, choose from tapas items, Polish style - golombki (stuffed cabbage rolls), bigos (hunter's stew), goulash or pierogi (traditional Polish dumplings with meat, mushrooms and sauerkraut or cheese and potato). Or perhaps snack on a selection of rollmops, dill cucumbers and Russian salad, washed down with a Polish beer or two. Save room for the Russian crepes or cheese and cherry strudel. There is more conventional fare on offer here as well, but why miss the chance to sample a true slice of Eastern Europe in the heart of Melbourne?
Angela Costanzo, August 2008
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Santosh N
September 14, 2006
Old favourite! Great vibe, massive vodka list.. leave your cars at home! :)
August 24, 2010
One of the best restaurants south of the river. Brilliant food, service and atmosphere.
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