A Touch of European Cafe

A sample platter of meats, with plenty of mustard. Rachel Rummel for Gastro Obscura

The entrance to the restaurant. Rachel Rummel for Gastro Obscura

Outdoor seating. Rachel Rummel for Gastro Obscura

Dark rye bread is the perfect accompaniment. Rachel Rummel for Gastro Obscura

The restaurant. Rachel Rummel for Gastro Obscura

The interior of the restaurant. Rachel Rummel for Gastro Obscura

Check out the cakes ready to go. Rachel Rummel for Gastro Obscura

These menus are full of delicious stuff. Rachel Rummel for Gastro Obscura

Goulash meal. joeypesto (Atlas Obscura User)

Split Pea Soup. joeypesto (Atlas Obscura User)

Kielbasa and Pierogi combo. joeypesto (Atlas Obscura User)

For the last 20 years, this family-owned haven for hearty Polish fare has been gracing downtown Glendale with hunter’s stew, pierogis, kielbasa, goulash, cabbage rolls, and so much more. (“A Touch of European” might be more aptly named “A Bear Hug from Poland”). Portions are generous, but save room for dessert, which includes house-baked cookies such as angel wings and kolaczki.

Chef-owner Waldemar Okula is fiercely proud of his homeland—a fact readily apparent to anyone who’s gone on one of his annual culinary tours of Poland. Twice a year, he hosts a cooking class where participants either learn how to make Easter classics like white borscht or a Polish-style Christmas feast.

It’s BYOB, it’s cash only, and it’s unlike anything else you’ll find in the greater metro Phoenix area. You’ll hear the owners speaking Polish amongst themselves and to other diners who’ve immigrated from the region.

If the specials include a dill pickle soup, order a cup. Do not doubt its power.