How It Works

How the Varenik&Pelmen Self-Service Dumpling Bar Works

Varenik&Pelmen operates a unique self-service concept at London food markets that puts you in complete control of your meal. Our motto — Take what you want, pay for what you take — means there are no set portions, no fixed combos, and no pressure. You simply choose the dumplings, bliny, or syrniky that catch your eye, and you pay only for what you pick. It is street food the way it should be: personal, flexible, and fun.

Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering at Varenik&Pelmen

Step 1: Visit Our Market Stall

Find us at one of London’s popular food markets. Check our Find Us page for our current schedule and locations. When you arrive, you will see our colourful stall with trays of freshly prepared dumplings and dishes displayed for you to choose from.

Step 2: Browse the Menu

Take your time to look at what is on offer. Our display includes a variety of pelmeni (meat dumplings), vareniki (filled dumplings with sweet or savoury fillings), bliny (thin Eastern European pancakes), and syrniky (sweet cottage cheese fritters). Each item is clearly labelled with its filling and any allergen information.

Step 3: Take What You Want

Grab a plate or container and select exactly the items you want. Fancy three pelmeni with chicken filling and two vareniki with cherry? Go for it. Want to try one of everything? That works too. There are no minimum orders and no restrictions on mixing and matching. This is your meal, your way.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Sauces

Complement your selection with our range of traditional toppings and sauces. Sour cream, butter, fresh herbs, and other condiments are available to complete your dish. Our staff can recommend pairings if you are not sure what goes best with your chosen fillings.

Step 5: Pay for What You Take

Bring your selection to the till, where we will weigh or count your items and charge you accordingly. We accept cash, card, and contactless payments. It is quick, simple, and transparent — you always know exactly what you are paying for.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Find a spot at the market, sit down, and enjoy your freshly prepared Eastern European feast. Whether you are eating on the go or settling in for a leisurely market lunch, our food is made to be savoured.

Why the Self-Service Model Works

No Waste, No Regret

Traditional restaurants often serve fixed portions that may be too much or too little. At Varenik&Pelmen, you control your portion size. Take just enough for a snack, or load up for a full meal. You will never pay for food you did not want or leave hungry wishing you had ordered more.

Perfect for Groups

When you are eating with friends or family, everyone has different tastes and appetites. Our self-service model means each person can choose exactly what they want without the awkward negotiations of sharing a set menu. It is especially great for introducing newcomers to Eastern European cuisine — they can try small portions of several dishes to find their favourites.

Discovery and Exploration

Never tried vareniki with cherry filling? Curious about lamb and beef pelmeni? Our format encourages you to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. With no commitment to a full portion, you can sample adventurously without risk.

What Are Pelmeni, Vareniki, Bliny, and Syrniky?

Pelmeni — Eastern European Meat Dumplings

Pelmeni are small, hearty dumplings filled with seasoned meat. Traditionally served boiled with sour cream or butter, they are the ultimate comfort food. At Varenik&Pelmen, we offer fillings including chicken, pork, pork and beef, turkey, lamb and beef, and a mild kids’ option. Learn more on our Pelmeni page.

Vareniki — Sweet and Savoury Filled Dumplings

Vareniki are larger dumplings that can be filled with both savoury and sweet ingredients. Popular savoury fillings include potato, cabbage, and mushroom, while sweet options like cherry and strawberry make for a delightful dessert. Explore all options on our Vareniki page.

Bliny — Traditional Eastern European Pancakes

Bliny are thin, delicate pancakes that can be filled and rolled with a variety of ingredients. From savoury spinach and feta to sweet jam, bliny are versatile and delicious. See our Bliny page for the full selection.

Syrniky — Cottage Cheese Fritters

Syrniky are pan-fried fritters made from cottage cheese, served with toppings like sour cream, jam, or honey. Light, fluffy, and subtly sweet, they are a beloved Eastern European breakfast and snack. Discover more on our Syrniky page.

Frozen Takeaway — Varenik&Pelmen at Home

Cannot get enough of our dumplings? Our Frozen Takeaway service lets you buy frozen pelmeni and vareniki to cook at home. Simply boil them for a few minutes and enjoy restaurant-quality dumplings in your own kitchen. It is perfect for busy weeknights, dinner parties, or anytime you crave authentic Eastern European comfort food.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

If you have never visited Varenik&Pelmen before, here are some tips to make the most of your experience. Arrive hungry — you will want to try several things. Do not be shy about asking our staff for recommendations. Start with a classic like chicken pelmeni or potato vareniki if you want something familiar, or go straight for the lamb and beef pelmeni or cherry vareniki if you are feeling adventurous. And do not skip the sour cream — it is the traditional accompaniment and it makes everything better.