The East Village, Ukrainian hotspot for delicious pierogis and borscht is aiming to open two new outposts in NYC!
According to the New York Post, one will open up in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and the other as a kiosk in Grand Central Terminal.
Ever since the war broke out in Ukraine, New Yorkers have settled on Veselka as the grounds for relief efforts, aiding Ukrainian-owned businesses and donating funds to help those in need. It’s surplus of support over the past year or so has given the restaurant room for the expansion.
Current relief efforts include donation drop offs at their East 9th Street entrance, in addition to a partnership with Razom For Ukraine.
The Williamsburg location could potentially span 5,000 square feet—500 square feet larger than the original East Village venue. As for the Grand Central Terminal kiosk, the outpost would be similar to the LES kiosk at Essex Crossing, explains the New York Post. Both would open sometime within the year.
Previous discussion about expansion occurred in 2020 when the Ukrainian restaurant was planning to add a pierogi bar next door to their 2nd Avenue spot, however, the addition has yet to come to fruition. Though, apparently following the Williamsburg opening the East Village location will temporarily close for a kitchen expansion, reports the New York Post. It hasn’t undergone a renovation in three decades shared Veselka’s owner, Jason Birchard.
“I’m just hoping for the best, and know in my heart that I will continue to do what I can to help Ukrainians, my fellow brothers and sisters,” Birchard told the New York Post. “My staff is very motivated. I couldn’t do this without their hard work. About 50% of them are Ukrainian.”
Beyond the expected expansion this year, Veselka hopes to bring back their 24/7 dining. Prior to the pandemic, pierogis were available at all hours of the night. For now, we can only hope around the clock pierogis will make a comeback!