Polish in Phoenix

Milk Bar may be the only restaurant in town patterned after a Soviet-era worker canteen. The stylish downtown restaurant and bar is a modern update on the traditional bar mleczny (Polish for “milk bar”), the Polish cafeterias known for delivering cheap yet wholesome grub to the working class masses. The menu offers refined takes on Polish comfort food like bigos, or hunter’s stew. The traditional meat and cabbage soup is savory and stick-to-your-ribs good. Kielbasa sausage, topped with caramelized onion, pairs well with the excellent house potato pancakes. A creative drink menu features an assortment of vodka-powered cocktails. But for a more palatable way to consume Poland’s national drink, try the vodka ice cream for dessert.

For those in search of a small, and mostly standout, selection of home-style Polish foods, finding this hidden away eatery, behind a Radio Shack and a Walgreens at Seventh Street and Dunlap in Sunnyslope, is a Valley discovery of Poland’s rich and hearty fare. Courtesy of Danuta and Richard Zablocki, both from cities in south-western Poland, come affordable, fill-you-up lunches or take-away dinners along with daily meal specials. Don’t miss the homemade pierogi, flavorful Polish sausage, and stellar sauerkraut. The Zablockis also bring their Polish goodies to several farmers markets throughout the Valley. Check the restaurant’s website for the one nearest you.

After you've exhausted yourself exploring the boutiques and antique shops in Glendale's historic district, stop by A Touch of European Café for some fortifying Polish cuisine. There's nothing like a plate of pierogies or stuffed cabbage to rejuvenate you. The menu also includes a variety of salads, deli-style sandwiches, and homemade desserts. And if you're in the mood for some wine with your smoked kielbasa, be sure to bring your own bottle.