Ah, pierogi. Fortunately for us, Buffalo boasts a plethora of places serving those pillowy pockets of cheesy, potatoey heavenly goodness. We can thank the large number of Polish immigrants for helping establish Buffalo into the pierogi-lovers haven it is today. As time progressed, Polish food evolved, with some eateries now offering pierogi pocketing non-traditional ingredients — pot roast, anyone? — that are fun to explore.
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Buffalo also boasts the official “Dyngus Day capital of America” title, meaning we can all share in the fun of Polish traditions. With that in mind, let’s throw off Lenten restrain, ready our pussy willows and celebrate spring with feasts of pierogi, kielbasa and golomki. And let’s not forget the sugary decadence of chrusciki and paczki! This hearty food is for everyone, and, let’s be honest, everyone should be enjoying it not only during springtime but all year round.
Below are some of Western New York’s best spots to find Polish cuisine. We hope you’ll go exploring to find some new favorites but also take time to savor those old standbys that feel like home.
Cieszyc sie! (Polish for, “Enjoy!”)
Did we miss one? Did one of these places close? Send us a note!
1. The Broadway Market
999 Broadway, East Side, 14212 / More Info
A must-go destination, open year-round, for all the traditional Polish foods from a variety of vendors.
2. K Sisters Authentic Pierogi
2116 Clinton St., Cheektowaga, 14206 / More Info
A pierogi shop – not restaurant – that includes traditional pierogi along with non-traditional varieties, such as fruit, chuck roast and sweet potato.
3. Potts Deli & Grille
41 S. Rossler Ave., Cheektowaga, 14206 / More Info
Specializing in kielbasa, golomki, breaded pork chops, lazy pierogi and regular pierogi.
4. Polish Nook
2242 Cudaback Ave., Niagara Falls, NY, 14303 / More Info
Old school bar and restaurant serving traditional Polish favorites.
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5. R&L Lounge
23 Mills St., East Side, 14212 / More Info
A simple comfort food menu in a down-home atmosphere.
6. Gadawski’s Restaurant
1446 Falls St., Niagara Falls, NY 14303 / More Info
Old school neighborhood bar serving up terrific Polish cuisine.
7. Prosit Restaurant Food Truck
32 North Cayuga Road, Williamsville, 14221 / More Info
Serves up Polish food and pastries in a fun, outdoors environment.
8. Gram’s Pierogi House
22 S. Main St., Angola, 14006 / Facebook
Traditional, homemade Polish comfort food.
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9. Polish Villa
2954 Union Rd, Cheektowaga, NY 14227 / More Info
When it’s called the Polish Villa, you can expect Polish dishes galore.
10. Mazurek’s Bakery
543 South Park Ave., Buffalo 14204 / More Info
Bakery with emphasis on Polish favorites, including cheesecake, placzek and poppy seed logs.
11. Chrusciki Bakery
80 W. Dullard Ave., Lancaster, 14086 / More Info
Combines old-world gourmet treats, such as chrusciki (obviously!) and paczki, with modern-day fare.
12. The European Lounge
4475 Transit Rd. Clarence, NY 14221 / Website
Located within the Eastern Hills Mall, The European Lounge is a trifecta of three businesses including Chrusciki Bakery, Simply Pierogi, and Sto Lat Bar.
Did we miss one? Did one of these places close? Send us a note!
This post was originally published in 2019 and has been updated.