Old Lviv Restaurant — Restaurant in West Chicago Township

Don't go here unless you are craving eastern european food. If it's your first time, go somewhere else. The place is set up for people in the know. If you speak Russian or Ukie, great! If not, it may be tough to navigate.

I was born in the U.S. but eastern european by blood and culture. I don't speak Russian or Ukrainian but I love liver and onions. I love borscht. Half the stuff in there(cucumber salad) was home-cooked stuff I grew up with and the rest was probably more local Ukrainian fare.

Service is different from what you are used to. Don't dare think you will be finicky and running the show. The server is the host and you are a guest. It's a different dynamic. In some ways it's more intimate. Act as if you are a guest in someone's home.

The food is just home-cooked unique goodness that somehow gets lost in the fine culinary world no matter how much they try to keep it on life support and serve it as gospel. They wind up airbrushing out all the flaws which is about as effective as rewriting a Tolstoy novel using conventional writing canons

Drink a damn beer with your meal, too. I don't care if you're 12(JK). If you can't choke down a beer, simply don't go there for lunch or dinner.

Anyway, I think you...

I love this place, and I try to visit whenever I'm in Chicago. I lived in Ukraine for a while... I miss it terribly, but Old Lviv takes me right back every time.

I've never tried the buffet, but it does look good. I've simply preferred ordering from the menu, which is fairly small but lovely.

If you've never tried Ukrainian food, you must. Go to Old Lviv and start with the varenyky, which they might describe as small pierogi (or ravioli). There are plenty of fillings to choose from--potatoes and cheese, potatoes and mushrooms, cabbage, a blend of beef and pork. Doesn't matter which kind you get, they're perfectly done and super tasty.

The pelmeny are a similar experience--think tortellini.

Let's talk borsch. Years ago, before I spent time in eastern Europe, I thought I didn't like beets or cabbage. Then I tried a really good borsch, and it changed my life. 😄

Old Lviv's borsch is on that level. I brought a friend here for her to try it for the first time; she described it as "a warm, loving hug".

I don't get to town too often, but I'll still try to eat here whenever I...

This family-owned Ukrainian restaurant in Chicago has quickly become a favorite of mine. From the moment you step inside, the warm and inviting atmosphere makes you feel right at home. The owners are incredibly friendly and go out of their way to ensure every guest feels welcome.

The menu features a wide variety of traditional Ukrainian dishes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. I was particularly impressed with how flavorful and healthy the food was – it's the perfect spot for those seeking a delicious and nutritious meal.

The relaxed ambiance makes it an ideal place for families or anyone looking to unwind after a long day. And with its reasonable prices, you get exceptional value for your money.

Be sure to try their Ukrainian lager – it's the perfect complement to any meal. Overall, this restaurant is a true hidden gem in Chicago and a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Ukrainian cuisine in a...