Veselka Restaurant   

144 2nd Ave
New York, NY 10003
212-228-9682
www.veselka.com

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What started in 1954 as a Ukrainian-run news and soup shop has expanded over the years to become an East Village institution, serving traditional Ukrainian fare in a gracious setting. With windows running along two sides of this diner, Veselka is blessed with lots of light. During the summer months, the sidewalk space becomes a cafe. The clientele -- a mixed bag of East Village hipsters, neighborhood old timers, youths and Eastern European couples -- enjoys sweet farmer's cheese blintzes, stuffed cabbage, and pierogi stuffed with sweet potato or sauerkraut and mushrooms. Menu items also include more traditional American choices, like mac and cheese, roast turkey, and spinach salad. Portions are generous and nothing on the menu will bust your budget. -- Sarah Lagrotteria