Eastern European cuisine is a growing culinary scene in the city.
Odessa is a new Ukrainian cuisine concept coming to 1716 S Wackerly Street on the north side of Midland, per a report from Midland Daily News. It comes from Sergey and Christina Pokanevych, who are immigrants of Ukraine and own Sergey’s Bakery in the city. Christina told What Now Detroit there is no opening date as remodeling is happening, but it will likely be in three-to-four months.
The Pokanevychs founded Chef Sergey’s bakery after having to flee the War in Ukraine breaking out in 2022. Since then, they have been serving coffees, croissants and danishes out of their shop at 136 Ashman Circle. This marks their second restaurant endeavor.
The name for the new concept is the city where the Pokanevych family was all born, including their son. They lived in the area for six generations and had to leave due to the war. Now, the family wants to bring a taste of home to Midland.
“That spirit will be reflected in the restaurant: warm hospitality, European influence, Ukrainian soul, and food made from scratch,” Christina wrote in a statement.
Christina said the menu hasn’t been fully fleshed out yet. As it is Ukrainian cuisine, it could be anything from beef borscht to classic pierogis. Midland Daily News reported the menu will have a variety of fish, meat and vegetarian options. A full bar serving drinks is also being built at the space.
The two just recently signed the lease for their new restaurant on the north side of W Wackerly Street, close to Midland Mall and Jack Barstow Airport. The building is across the street from Speedway at the corner of Eastman Avenue. Antonio’s is still open at the space.
The owners have not yet set up social media accounts for Odesa, but they will be providing more updates as it gets closer to the opening date.
