On the other side of Lionel-Groulx metro, Café Baba Yaga’s red rimming and the pile of pumpkins on the other side of the window gave off the autumn vibe that I sought. The restaurant made its debut a few weeks ago, and is open Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The restaurant is small and quaint, with dark walls, few tables, and an open kitchen. I was served by one of the three owners, who was both welcoming and helpful as I stared indecisively over the menu. He suggested the sauerkraut and mushrooms pierogi. For $6 I got three. At first glance, I thought I wasn’t going to have enough, but after eating everything in the small bowl, I felt full.
Being full didn’t stop me from trying out the Nutella-filled paczki. This Polish dessert resembles a doughnut, filled with various fillings.
Baba Yaga is a mysterious woman in Slavic mythology. The legend is ambiguous, portraying the woman as either motherly or villainous. Café Baba Yaga’s Facebook page summarizes her legend, warning people to be careful what they wish for. The story goes that some seek her out to ask for favours, and “if you are pure of heart in what you want, Baba Yaga will always give it to you, always with some immortal irony attached.”
But if you wish for good food, at a good price, in a nice and welcoming environment, Café Baba Yaga is nothing to fear!