Celebrating Latkes: Chef Dima Martseniuk Of Veselka

We love our latkes! So much so that for the past 11 years, we’ve held an annual Latke Festival to celebrate the latke and to benefit The Sylvia Center. Although we’re disappointed that we can’t celebrate with you, we’ll be highlighting some of our favorite latke participants.

Chef Dima Martseniuk has won more awards at our annual Latke Festival than any other competitor and we’re always delighted to have him and his team participate. Originally from Ukraine, Chef Dima Martseniuk graduated from Kiev University Ukraine, with a degree in finance and management. He then attended the French Culinary Institute (ICC), New York and has been working at Veselka since December 2009.

He’s been featured on TV including making his short ribs pierogi with Guy Fieri, a judge on Beat Bobby Flay, a guest on Good Morning America after his 2018 Latke Festival win, on the Rachael Ray Show, and more. He’s constantly working on new recipes at Veselka, many of which have become bestsellers.

2018 Latke Festival Winning Recipes: Veselka’s Dima’s Sweet and Savory Short Rib Latke

Dec 3, 2018

Veselka

Veselka is one of New York’s most beloved Ukranian restaurants. This 24-hour go to for their famous pierogi has been operating in the East village since 1954. They’ve won numerous awards and recognition including “Best East Village Diner” and “Best Ukrainian Diner” by New York Press. They’ve been featured in the New York Times, Serious Eats, London Times, Buzzfeed, on the Food Network and more. Their pierogi have also been included in Eater’s “New York City’s 30 Most Iconic Dishes” and Thrillist’s “Most Important Food Dishes in NYC History.”

When Covid hit in March 2020, they closed out of concern for the health and safety of their staff and guests. On May 1, they reopened for take out and delivery and were able to reopen outdoor dining in June.

During this time, they’ve received tons of support from many sources, especially their local customers and their loyal fanbase who are able to order their pierogi and soups via Goldbelly (if you haven’t tried their incredibly delicious food yet, here’s your chance!)

They enclosed their outdoor space and are looking forward to welcoming guests for a warming dish of comfort during the cold winter days.

If you get a chance, show them your love either by stopping in or by ordering their pierogi (and other Ukrainian dishes) online via Goldbelly.

We can’t wait to have them participate in Latke Festival again next year!