Ukrainians in London started their own business. Chef Yuriy Kovryzhenko and his partner Olga Tsybitovska arrived in London in February of last year for an event at the Ukrainian embassy.
However, they ended up staying there for several months. During this time, they managed to raise over £500,000 for Ukraine through charity events featuring globally renowned chefs such as Jamie Oliver, Jason Atherton, and Tom Kitchin.
Now, the Ukrainians have opened their own restaurant in London. They didn’t take long to decide on the name.
Ukrainians about “Mriya”
For Ukrainians, “Mriya” is not just an airplane. “Mriya” is primarily a symbol. It’s a dream to return home, end the war, and rebuild the country, says Yuriy.
The establishment opened just three months after the idea was conceived. The restaurant accommodates 60 people. To create the interior, they specifically brought Ukrainian paintings, Hutsul pillows and carpets, as well as authentic furniture to London.
The entire staff of the restaurant consists of forced Ukrainian migrants. However, not everyone in the establishment is a professional chef.
Behind the bar, there’s a lawyer; in the kitchen, an entrepreneur, pastry chef, lawyer, and teacher. Students serve visitors in the hall. In total, 15 people work here.
“Mriya” introduces Ukrainian culture to the English, acquainting them with traditional cuisine. The establishment already has regular customers not only among Ukrainians but also among the British.