News

We are incredibly proud to share some exciting news — our VARENYKY have been chosen as one of the Delicious.100 Best Dishes and Drinks of 2026 . To see Ukrainian dumplings recognised among Australia’s must-try flavours for the year ahead is truly special for our entire team. The Delicious.100 celebrates the most memorable dishes across Australia - from iconic classics to bold new favourites. And this year, our handmade varenyky are part of that national conversation. Made fr

February marks four years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine — four years of loss, courage, rebuilding, and unwavering resilience. This week, Hanna and Eugene Hawryszko (leader of the Association of Ukrainians in Victoria), were invited to appear on ABC News Morning Show to reflect on this anniversary. In the interview, they spoke about the realities of war, the refugee experience, and the journey of Ukrainians who were forced to leave their homes but not their ide

There is a Ukrainian saying that "the heart of the people is in their art," and at Otakoi, we believe that culture is best shared through creativity and community. This April, we are thrilled to host two very special events: our Van Gogh Sunflower Art Classes . Inspired by the vibrant energy of Vincent van Gogh’s iconic sunflowers - the national flower of Ukraine - these sessions are designed to let your creative expression flow in a warm, welcoming environment. Whether you a

For many of our guests, Ukrainian cuisine is completely new. No familiar reference point. No expectations. Just curiosity. That’s exactly why we created Journey to Ukraine  — a dining experience designed as a culinary route across the country, from west to east, where every dish tells a story. Ukraine is vast, diverse, and deeply regional. Food here isn’t just about ingredients — it’s about land, climate, history, and family traditions passed down through generations. At Otak

We’re getting ready to introduce something new to our evening experience. Very soon , you’ll be able to enjoy shisha (hookah / kalyan)   upstairs at OhTak Bar , on our rooftop terrace , from 8:00 PM onwards . Whether you’re finishing dinner downstairs or joining us just for drinks, the night will soon continue upstairs with cocktails, conversation, open air — and shisha. A relaxed rooftop ritual Shisha at OhTak Bar is designed as a slow, social experience . Unhurried evenings

Every week, we see the same beautiful thing happen at Otakoï . A birthday table fills up. Someone brings flowers. Glasses clink. And very quickly, it feels like home. Birthdays at Otakoï are never just about the food — they’re about connection. About gathering people around one table and sharing something meaningful. A Special Place for Those with Ukrainian Roots For many of our guests with Ukrainian roots, celebrating a birthday here means reconnecting with flavours, traditi

In Ukrainian homes, pickled tomatoes are never just a side dish. They sit right in the middle of the table — next to warm food, long chats, laughter, and stories that somehow always last longer than planned. Every family has their own recipe. Every jar has its own little history. At Otakoï , we’ve always believed that food is about more than what’s on the plate. It’s about moments, connection, and feeling like you belong at the table. That’s why we’re starting something new.

This Tuesday, Otakoï stepped outside and brought Ukrainian flavours straight to the street. We hosted a menu degustation for people walking by  — inviting passers-by to taste, chat, and experience Ukrainian food and hospitality in the most open and joyful way. It was truly special to see familiar faces - our regular guests - stopping by for a taste, as well as to meet many new people who had never visited Otakoï before. Some were curious, some surprised, and many simply happy

Today our dining room turned into a little world of colour, laughter, and flour-dusted hands 💫At Otakoï, we hosted a Kids Varenyky Making Masterclass  — and it was everything we love about sharing Ukrainian culture with the next generation. Children rolled dough, shaped their own varenyky, and played with colourful dough , turning traditional recipes into edible art.There were smiles everywhere, curious questions, and proud little chefs showing off their creations — proof th

We’re excited to share something new we’ve been quietly working on at Otakoï 💛 Very soon, you’ll be able to take a little piece of Otakoï home with you. We’ll be introducing freshly made, frozen varenyky , prepared in-house and packed for your freezer — perfect for easy, comforting meals at home. Varenyky will be available in packs of 10 pieces  and can be purchased directly in the restaurant . Alongside this, we’ll also be offering a selection of our signature cakes  for pr

December at Otakoï was one of those months we’ll remember for a long time 💛Busy, emotional, loud, joyful — and full of moments that reminded us why we do what we do. As the year wrapped up, our restaurant became more than just a place to eat. It became a space for families, kids, traditions, celebrations, and dancing well past midnight. Here’s a little recap of how December looked and felt at Otakoï. Kids’ Christmas Masterclass: Small Hands, Big Smiles One of the most heartw

Happy New Year from all of us at Otakoï 💛 From our Otakoï family to yours - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 🎄✨ We wish you peace - in your hearts, your homes, and the world around you. We pray for peace in Ukraine, with hope for safety, healing, and a future without fear. May the New Year bring warmth, kindness, and more moments of gathering together - just as Ukrainian tradition teaches us: around the table, with care for one another 💙💛 As we step into the new year, h

Built with Heart by Hanna & Micheal OhTak Bar began as a quiet idea - a hidden space above Otakoï, where modern Ukrainian spirit could meet Melbourne’s vibrant bar culture. Over months of planning, late-night decisions, risk-taking, courage, and a touch of madness, Hanna and Micheal  crafted a bar that feels intimate, warm, and full of soul. Every detail, every corner, every flavour was created with intention and heart. Powered by an Incredible Team Behind this new beginning

This festive season, Otakoï opens its doors wide - to families, friends, and teams - inviting everyone to celebrate with warmth, flavour, and true Ukrainian hospitality. From joyful lunches to candle-lit dinners, creative kids’ workshops and vibrant New Year’s parties, there’s something for every age and spirit. 🥂 1. Festive Lunches & Dinners For families, friends, or work celebrations - book your table early! Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a festive team lunch,

We’re proud to share that the exhibition is now on display at the Immigration Museum Melbourne , celebrating how food connects people, cultures, and communities across Australia. While the exhibition opened to the public in October , the official celebration event  took place on Monday, 3 November , bringing together artists, restaurateurs, and community representatives to honour the stories behind this meaningful project. Featuring 33 restaurants and eateries from across Mel

Planning an event with heart, flavour, and a touch of culture?At Otakoï Ukrainian Restaurant , we’re thrilled to introduce our new Function Packages , designed to make hosting easy, elegant, and delicious. Located on Chapel Street, Windsor , Otakoï brings soulful Ukrainian food and modern hospitality to every occasion - from corporate dinners and birthdays to engagements, anniversaries, and festive gatherings. Our dedicated team will help you craft an experience that feels ef

Looking for the perfect lunch spot in Windsor ? Step into Otakoï , a modern Ukrainian restaurant on Chapel Street , where soulful food meets warm hospitality. Looking for a cozy spot for lunch in Windsor ? Step into Otakoï , a modern Ukrainian restaurant on Chapel Street , where soulful flavours and warm hospitality make every meal feel special. Join us for lunch every Thursday and Friday from 12pm to 3pm , and enjoy our full à la carte menu  — from golden Chicken Kyiv  and h

As we head into the busiest season of the year, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you for the incredible warmth and support you've...

Discover the Soul of Ukraine: A Timeless Summer (Sour Cherry Nalyvka) In the heart of every Ukrainian celebration, you will find a...

Looking for the perfect gift for a birthday, anniversary, or a special thank you? Give an experience that warms the soul and delights the...