I stopped by their sister restaurant, Pierogi Kitchen, this week, which is in striking distance from work. I was stoked I could recreate my order from my dearly departed Podhalanka – zurek and sauerkraut/mushroom pierogies.
Ordering ahead had its obstacles – ordering on the website was non-functional and my call was put on hold for 10 minutes. The space had good vibes, inviting on a frigid afternoon. Maybe it's the Dry January talking (oh, the shame!) but their line up of Polish craft beer looked extra enticing.
Unfortunately the grub did not live up to my gold standard (even in the waning latter days of Helena and co.) Pierogies were borderline soggy. Filling was kraut heavy and I didn't hate the tang, but shroom flavors were muted. For garnish, in place of caramelized onions were poorly cut scallions. Zurek lacked the fermented rye tang I love about the soup. The kielbasa had good smoke and garlic, though was coarse ground, while I prefer an emulsified bounce. Most unappealing about the soup was boiled egg with membrane still half attached. And not a fleck of fresh dill to be found.
I might try bellying up to the bar for some zimne pivo in the future, but won't rush back for take out.