Schaboszczak od dziadka — Review by KSIĄŻULO

The Dishes

The review covers an impressive array of traditional Polish home cooking. The sorrel soup at Schaboszczak od dziadka is exceptional - described as having strong sorrel flavor with a slightly blended texture and significant sourness that works beautifully. The schnitzel, which the restaurant is famous for, arrives as a tender and juicy cutlet at 38 zloty, though smaller than anticipated. Interestingly, it appears to contain a layer of cheese, which seems to be a signature preparation method here. The meatball kotlet (32 zloty) is flavorful and well-seasoned with ground meat that is moist and succulent, though quite salty. The side dishes include potatoes that are well-prepared and plentiful, and a remarkable carrot dish that the reviewer calls among the best in Poland - buttery, sweet, and perfectly cooked with large pieces. The tomato soup with pasta is more acidic and less sweet than preferred, with an unusual addition of noodles rather than traditional pasta shapes. Pierogi with meat are problematic - while the filling is well-seasoned and meat-filled, the dough becomes mushy and glue-like, particularly when taken to go. The cheese and cream pierogi have slightly better dough structure. Pancakes with jam at 10 zloty are excellent - thick, fluffy, and filled with good quality strawberry jam.

The Experience

The restaurant has a casual, neighborhood bar atmosphere typical of traditional Polish milk bars. Service is efficient and straightforward. The reviewer notes this is the second Schaboszczak location, which opened later on Koscielna Street, and observes that the original location on Szkolna Street has a somewhat different menu. Staff are friendly and accommodating, answering questions about menu items and preparations.

Value and Pricing

Pricing falls in the moderate to slightly higher range for Polish traditional food. A sorrel soup costs 14 zloty, schnitzel 38-40 zloty, meatball kotlet 32-33 zloty, pierogi 23 zloty for eight pieces (approximately 3 zloty each), and pancakes 10 zloty. The reviewer considers some prices higher than comparable establishments while acknowledging the quality. Portions are large and generous, with enough food to potentially split between two people.

Notable Moments

A significant portion of the video involves the mystery of two competing establishments both claiming connection to the original Grandpa's Schnitzel, with similar logos and naming. The reviewer receives an email from a viewer explaining the potential family conflict that led to the split, though the true story remains unconfirmed.

We dug into which grandfather makes it better - whether this is truly a family feud or just something the locals cooked up.

The reviewer also encounters a local resident who admits not knowing which location was original. A humorous moment involves a phone call where the reviewer's mother orders food by description rather than menu items. The exceptional quality of the carrot side dish becomes a standout moment, with the reviewer proclaiming it possibly the best carrots he has eaten in Poland.

The Verdict

Schaboszczak od dziadka serves genuinely good traditional Polish home cooking with quality ingredients and generous portions. The standout items are the sorrel soup, tender schnitzel, and especially the carrot side dish. While pricing is slightly higher than some competitors and certain items like pierogi have texture issues, the overall experience is positive. This restaurant is best for those seeking authentic Polish comfort food in a casual setting, particularly if you appreciate well-prepared sorrel soup and generous potato portions. However, those watching their budget or seeking the absolute lowest prices might find slightly better value elsewhere.