When I first heard that a Ukrainian restaurant was opening in Soho on West Broadway,I thought what's a restaurant like you doing in a place like this?  Ukrainian restaurants in the past (Odessa, Kiev, the Ukrainian Club) had always clustered together in the East Village. Soho with its chic this and that did not seem like a natural fit . . . But I was wrong, as Taras Bulba delivers fully with authentic food, colorful atmosphere and genuine warmth of service. 

The restaurant which now has been open for three years, takes its name from a short story by Nikolai Gogal, "Taras Bulba," which describes the life of an old Zaporozhian Cossack and his two sons. Bulba though fictionalized, is based on the legend of Cossack captain Sava Chaly.  He is a figure that is romanticized about, and is considered a national hero.

Taras Bulba's interior pulls out all the stops in creating a vivid, high-spirited Ukrainian feeling. The decor is imaginative and detailed; photos of weathered Cossacks, an array of weapons, pitchforks, colorful dresses adorn the walls. A vital Ukrainian pop group song is heard, and Ukraine cartoons play on TV. The wait staff is in native Cossack dress bound about with joy. Kitschy, yes, but it works and is fun!

The restaurant produces sixteen flavored vodkas which can be enjoyed at the restaurant or taken home. This is horseradish vodka served with pickle wrapped in dough.

For cold appetizer try the "Vareneki," (Ukrainian dumplings) You have a selection of either beef filling, or potato and cabbage. I found the dumplings light in texture, not heavy as dumpling at times can be.

I am crazy about the "Potato Drankini" (potato pancakes) for a hot appetizer. Cooked golden brown, slightly crunchy and served with sour cream.

The servers all wear native Ukrainian dress and are delightful. Most seem to be from Ukraine, others from Russia and one from Moldova. They are all so engaging filled with positive energy that the restaurant takes on a feel that you are at a party in Ukraine. You feel their genuine love in serving food and letting you know about their culture.

Probably Ukraine's most famous dish . . . Chicken Kiev. A boneless chicken breast that is pounded and rolled with garlic butter and herbs, then breaded and baked. LOVED IT!

One can not possibly exit Taras Bulba without the hostess giving you one last shot of vodka for the road. A wonderful way to end of festive evening.

Ukrainian Language lesson - "Hello"  (Vitaya) "Thank you" (Diakuju)  "Delicious" (Chudovy)

Interesting fact about Ukraine - With the depth of 345 feet, the Arsenal'na subway station in the city of Kiev is considered the deepest subway station in the world.

Address - 357 West Broadway (212) 510 - 7510