Kozak’s has everything you want in Ukrainian food

From banosh and shashlyk to borscht and pierogies, they have it all.

In continuing my month-long appreciation for all things Ukrainian, today we look at Kozak’s, the best Ukrainian restaurant in the city. I’ve loved everything about this company ever since I learned about it from a mutual friend. I had dinner at their Gastown location last Wednesday. The girl I went with is from Ukraine, so she led on ordering.

Located in the old Boneta space (if you don’t know the history and lore of Boneta, check this write-up on Scout), this decked-out version of Kozak’s is very pleasant. Their other two locations are more like bakeries. It’s definitely stepped up its game since our visit last year when this location first opened.

This time the vibe felt calmer and more authentic. The menu is more fleshed out with the addition of staples most would recognize, such as borscht, pierogies, and cabbage rolls. I’m assuming those additions were made to appease those less familiar with dishes like banosh, shashlyk, and salo board.

Everything was great, with the salo board and besarabian peppers as notable standouts. Don’t skimp on the bread, it’s partially what they’re known for.

I was most impressed with the chicken kyiv as I thought it to be something entirely different. Crunchy, tender, and full of dill and butter. What’s not to love? My friend wouldn’t let me try any of the common staples, as she knew I’d had them before. I intend to go back soon with a friend to sample them.

Additionally, part of the reason she was excited to go was to check out their shooter game. I guess this is big culturally back home. We did two rounds of five with several being lit by our server with a straw to suck them home.

Quite the theatre I might say. Definitely adds to the atmosphere.

I could go here anytime. Do check it out but try to not light your hair on fire. I need to remember this for next time.

  • Reminder: Don’t forget to get your photo with Zelynskyy.

Explore: Adjacent to the dining room is their takeaway section. Plenty of loaves of bread and pastries can be bought with a big assortment of soups, goulash, pierogies, and cabbage rolls. It's definitely worth your time if you’re on the go and love this food.

  • New West - Bakery & Cafe - 444 6th Street

  • East Van - Eatery & Mill - 5077 Victoria Drive

  • Gastown - Restaurant & Bar - 1 West Cordova Street

  • Sunday-Thursday 11 am-9 pm, Friday-Saturday 11 am-11 pm

  • 778 955 9135 (Press 3)

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