Family, friends, and homemade food- Polish food, that is. From homemade pierogies to delectable tarts, Dabrowski’s Family Restaurant and Deli has it all. With its red and white theme, Dabrowski’s has been serving hearty Polish and American dishes for 26 years.

Wesley Dabrowski immigrated to Erie, PA from Poland in 1947, along with his father and four brothers. While in Poland, Dabrowski made a living cutting hair and continued that profession in the United States. He opened up his own barber shop called “Wesley’s,” located on 26th and Penna Avenue in Erie, PA. He cut hair for 51 years until finally retiring to work in his restaurant which opened in 1983. Dabrowski’s has been a local favorite ever since.

From the outside, the restaurant is easy to spot with its red and white paneled exterior. Displayed above the entrance is a red eagle wearing a crown, which is a part of the traditional Polish flag.

Upon entering the eatery, new and regular customers are greeted by a female mannequin dressed in traditional polish clothing. The red and white theme continues throughout the inside of the restaurant with the red brick walls and white tiled floors. Each table is garnished with faux ruby-colored roses, which give the place an even greater feeling of being right at home.

Perfectly formed lemon, cherry, and blueberry tarts line the food showcase in front of the restaurant, next to the kitchen entrance. Of course there are many more tart flavors, and some homemade slices of polish sweetbread.

Below the sweet treats are the sweet meats on display for the famous deli sandwiches. Along with the deli meats, they serve hamburgers, chicken and fish sandwiches, and seasoned pork steak with a side of vegtables and potatoes.

If you happen to think breakfast is the most important meal of the day, then Dabrowski’s plentiful breakfast is the way to go. Since breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, I had the pleasure of tasting their homemade sausage, eggs, and fluffy pancakes. With a side of toast and delectable homemade strawberry jelly, this breakfast was a perfect start for the early morning.

Located on 4003 Main Street, in Lawrence Park (map), Dabrowski’s offers all homemade products containing no additives or preservatives. With prices ranging from $2.99-$10.99, they provide catering for all services and serve plentiful food Monday through Saturday, 7am to 3pm.

Dabrowski’s is a laid-back, reasonably priced restaurant, with a friendly and welcoming staff. Although the wait for the food is a bit lengthy, when it does arrive, a bigger plate is always going to be needed along with a carry-out box to go! From their polish breakfast and toast to golombki (cabbage rolls) and paczki, (Polish donut) Dabrowski’s has something for the whole family to munch on.