Cafe Polonia is a cozy restaurant serving Polish comfort fare, located in South Boston near the Andrew T stop and the South Bay shopping center. It’s known for delicious dishes such as pierogi, potato pancakes, kielbasa, and stuffed cabbage.
Cafe Polonia
Overall Rating: ★★★★★ out of 5 stars
Address: 611 Dorchester Ave, Boston, MA 02127
Neighborhood: South Boston
Perfect For: Casual lunch or dinner for small groups
Hours: Mon – Thu 12pm – 9pm, Fri 12pm – 10pm, Sat 11am – 10pm, Sun 11am – 9pm
Reservations: Accepted, but not required
Parking: Street
Links: Website, Menu
Cost: $30 per person (food only)
The interior of the restaurant has unique hand-crafted furnishings, with a welcoming and intimate space that fits about 7 tables. I was the only one there when I arrived on a Saturday around noon, with two other parties arriving shortly thereafter.
There are many options to choose on the menu, from appetizers such as pickle soup and kielbasa twists to salads to traditional dishes and entrees. They also serve desserts such as sweet fruit-filled pierogis and beverages including beer, wine, and soft drinks.
Complimentary bread and butter were served. I ordered the Polish Plate, which is a sampler that includes three pierogis, grilled Polish kielbasa, Hunter’s stew, and meat-stuffed cabbage, as well as potato pancakes, which were served with Hungarian goulash, sour cream, and a delicious apple sauce.
The stuffed cabbage rolls were very tender and flavorful, with a savory tomato sauce drizzled over it. I also enjoyed the grilled kielbasa and Hunter’s stew, which I had never tried before. I loved the pierogis, which tasted very fresh and authentic.
The potato pancakes were superb. Perfectly cooked and fried, they are an excellent blank slate to slather on sour cream, apple sauce, or Hungarian goulash.
Overall, I thought the food was well-executed with thoughtful presentation. Service was friendly and prompt. I would enjoy visiting again and trying more pierogis (they have potato and cheese, cabbage and mushroom, spinach, and meat filling options).