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Our Story


Since 1954, Veselka has been serving up traditional Ukrainian food in the heart of the East Village.

1954

Veselka was born


Store Front in 1966


1966

Veselka expanded in 1966, it took over a store front on East Ninth Street and the new additional space was referred to as the "Blue Room", it was a separate dining room off the small front room, this area was often used by my grandfather/founder as his private meeting room for his cronies as well as of course dining area

1974

Wlodymyr Darmochwal passes away
(1903-1974)

1980

Village Voice gives Veselka its first review.

Open 24 Hours Neon Sign


1990

Veselka opens 24 hours a day / 7 days a week

1992

Veselka wins 2nd Place in the National Restaurant menu awards for its creative design taken from our diverse clientele.




1996

Veselka expands into its current space after a 4 month renovation, nearly doubling the size.

2004

Celebrated our 50th anniversary with a dedication ceremony and a plaque marking the occasion.

2009

Veselka releases its cookbook

a close up of a book

2023

Veselka celebrates its 69th anniversary.