Borsch, Vodka & Tears

Located at the Bohemian end of Chapel Street is this low-lit, warm and cozy watering hole and eatery. With a mix of hearty and traditional Polish and Russian dishes, the best way to begin your BVT (as the regulars call it) experience is to warm your throat with a Polish Bitch. This vodka shot is one of their most popular concoctions and only one of their 100-plus imported, house-infused and 'special release' vodkas, not to mention their extensive list of European beers and wines as well as their diverse cocktail list. Once your first shot of vodka is down the hatch brace yourself for typical European fare; where the kitchen serves a variety of dishes to share or devour alone irrespective of the time of day or night. For starters, the Zakuski is a tapas-style plate, jam-packed with Polish delights including: herring, potato salad, salami and other mouth-watering treats. To top it off, this is all served with a basket of the best rye bread in town. As the name implies, Borsch is served both Polish and Russian-style. Choose from either the Polish variety of clear beetroot broth, with the option of adding some uszka (beef or mushroom dumplings), and then there's the Russian version with beans, vegetables and sour cream. If that's not enough choice, try the Gypsy Soup of ham and smokey sausage. Suggestion: if you feel like another vodka shot perhaps try an uplifting dose of Wild Bee Honey Vodka which speaks for itself. My favourite main is the generous serve of Porcini Mushroom Pierogi - flavoursome dumplings that are made with a real delicacy and served with a delicious side of red cabbage salad. Other Pierogi to choose from includes: meat, sauerkraut and cheese and potato. The Golombki (stuffed cabbage rolls) are filled with tasty meat and simmered in a tomato-based sauce. For a traditional hunter's stew, try the Bigos of meat and sauerkraut in a piquant sauce. But leave room for dessert and of course, more samples of BVT's vodka varieties. For dessert, the cherry-filled Pierogi or Cheese Blintzes (crepes) are to die for and best accompanied with a shot of Hot Mountain Tea that is best sipped slowly. Sample a true slice of Eastern Europe at BVT anytime of day. Nazdorowy! Review by Monica Current Opening Hours Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 5pm until late Friday 4pm until very late Saturday 12:30pm until very late Sunday 12:30pm until quite late Monday Closed Weekend Lunches are back!