From warming potato pancakes to
dumplings stuffed with veggies, meat and cheese; if there are any
country's citizens who know how to whip up a comforting, hearty
plate of grub, it's our friends over in Ukraine. To get a taste?
Here's our lowdown on Ukrainian restaurants in London.
Mriya Neo Bistro, Earl's Court
A venue staffed by refugees, Mriya Neo Bistro is a great choice if you want to give a little back while chowing down on the best food from Ukraine. With a menu boasting modern takes on classics, including kabachkovi oladky (courgette pancakes) served alongside smoked trout and stracciatella instead of the traditional sour cream, this one is a must. Plus, there are local wines or infused vodka pairings to boot.
This Ukrainian restaurant in Earl's Court is bringing both style and substance.
Tatar Bunar
Opening in March 2025, on the former site of Brindisa, Tatar Bunar is a Shoreditch eatery created by Ukranian restauranteurs Alex Cooper and Anna Andriienko. These two have got multiple restaurants across Ukraine, which have been used as food distribution points during the war. Alex is currently in Ukraine managing this effort, while his partner Anna has moved to London for this new venture.
The venue is inspired by Alex's hometown of Tatarbunary in southern Ukraine, promising family recipes passed down from his grandmother. Head chef Kate Tkachuk will be using traditional techniques, across classic dishes like chicken Kyiv and borscht. As for the interiors, expect decorations from the Carpathian region and Ukrainian-sourced artwork.
New restaurant Tatar Bunar is taking over the site of Brindisa in Shoreditch.
SINO, Notting Hill
Opening in May 2025, SINO is a brand new Ukrainian restaurant founded by Polina Sychova - named after the Ukrainian word for hay. Chef Eugene Korolev is leading the kitchen team, using quality British and Ukrainian ingredients to create authentic dishes.
The interior design features nods to the beauty of Ukraine, using natural materials throughout. Expect the likes of hay-infused wild mushroom broth, pork belly with blackened beetroot and barbecued catfish on the menu, as well as a selection of contemporary cocktails.
This new restaurant blends Ukrainian cuisine with quality British ingredients.
Ole Kyiv, Chislehurst
Strewn with old paintings of the country's capital, Ole Kyiv is a Ukrainian restaurant in Chislehurst that oozes style. There's Nemiroff-laced signature cocktails on the cards, all accompanying live music and a lineup of authentic cuisine celebrating Ukraine's culture. Think traditional varenyky fillings, sweet cottage cheese-stuffed pancakes and homemade honey cake.
An ode to the country's capital.
Albina, Plaistow
For a London restaurant serving Ukrainian
food, Albina is a top choice. Fronting
authentic plates of grub that taste 'just like Mother makes it',
with harmonious blends of spices and rich flavour, it was one of
the first eateries from the country to open up in our capital. The
menu includes potato pancakes smothered in meat and mushroom
sauce, rabbit with sour cream and classic oozing chicken
Kyiv.
A favourite among Ukrainians, the home cooking at Albina is sure to impress.
Rinkoff Bakery, Whitechapel
While not strictly a restaurant, this Ukrainian bakery in London is serving up matcha babka with white chocolate and pistachio, their famous crodough (croissant pastry fried like a doughnut), Challah breads and more from two locations. Rinkoff has been a family-run destination for baked goodies since 1911, with one site now including a deli delving out fresh sandwiches and hot breakfasts.
Donut you dare consider any other speciality baker than Rinkoff.
XIX Nineteen, Stratford
If you're looking for a Ukrainian restaurant in Stratford, XIX Nineteen has to be on your radar. With everything from homemade pancakes and signature cocktails to deli-style lunch offerings and huge buffets, this eatery is known for its contemporary take on the food of their country. Settle down in the comfy leather booths here to feast from brekkie through to dinner.
For a modern twist on food from Ukraine, head to XIX Nineteen.
Dnister, Romford
Creating plates of Ukrainian cuisine and other Eastern European dishes, Dnister is offering up the likes of borscht (rustic beetroot soup with a garlic doughnut), filled crepes and slow-cooked rib stew. Thanks to the fundraiser dinners, sponsored cycle rides and donations organised by the owners, they're giving you a taste of the country while also helping its people in their time of need.
Expect vibrant and tasty plates at Dnister.