Stara Polska

Who would have thought that you would find an excellent Polish restaurant is such a trendy part of Central London; it shows how times have changed? But, the huge influx of workers in the last few years from Poland has brought with it both an interest in things Polish and the expertise to go with that.

The ambience at Stara Polska is traditionally Polish, with handmade furniture and furnishings specifically selected in Poland to create the atmosphere of that country right here in Marylebone Lane, London. The whole place is dimly lit by candle light and has a thoroughly rustic interior. In addition, the subtle mountain music and the wide variety of Polish vodkas certainly help you to enjoy your meal. All that makes you more likely to go back, as long as you are still in a fit enough state to remember afterwards!

If you are a beer fan you should try the Zywiec (Polish beer). The others on the menu are Zwyviec, Okocim, Lech and Tyskie, while the Vodka list has the unusual Zubrowka with Bison Grass, Krupnik, the honey flavoured vodka and there's also Black Debowa - all names unfamiliar to us at present, but likely to become more appreciated. And for the wine lovers there is also an international wine list.

For all those, who are in need of some cheerful winter food, this is the place. The restaurant is always packed, which is a very good sign. The Polish sausage and mountain smoked cheese make good starters. The main courses include bigos, a stew with potato cakes, and hunters stew. Other traditional Polish dishes on the menu are Pierogi, Kielbasa smoked sausage as well as familiar dishes that you might expect from Eastern Europe such as beef stroganoff and salmon a la polonaise. The restaurant has a great selection so there should be something to suit everyone.

This unusual mix makes Stara Polska a very pleasant spot to relax at with friendly and quick service. You could end your meal with their most popular pudding, poppy seed cake, however, the various cheesecakes and fruit cakes, as well as crepes, served with fruit, cream and chocolate, are other desserts that hit the mark - all these are freshly made and baked in the restaurant.