Kyiv-born chef Anton Vasyliev has taken charge of the restaurant’s kitchen and created a new menu ‘inspired by Ukrainian flavors and modernity,’ set to debut fully on 30 October. The menu features new dishes such as chicken giblets skewers with beef juice, carrot and hazelnut cream salad, pampushka sando with beef tartare, and a shared plate of shish kebab accompanied by grilled shishito peppers and herbs.
The restaurant will also include signature offerings from the original Mriya menu, including borsch made with beef broth, cherry varenyky, and the classic chicken Kyiv. Prominent Ukrainian chef Yurii Kovryzhenko and his partner Olga Tsybytovska launched Mriya in August 2022 after finding themselves stranded in London due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Billed as a ‘cultural embassy’ for Ukraine in London, the restaurant has showcased Ukrainian food, design, art, and drink, and was notably staffed by Ukrainian refugees who fled the war. Kovryzhenko left the business in early 2023, after which Tsybytovska has led the establishment.
“Over the past two years, Mriya has concentrated on Ukrainian cuisine with a traditional menu, now reimagined with a modern flair,” she says, reflecting on the changes. “Much has changed, and today’s Mriya is distinct from its opening.” She emphasizes a desire for transformation, stating that Mriya now embodies Ukrainian creativity, rooted in heritage and experiences, while mirroring the contemporary world.
“This cuisine draws inspiration from Ukraine and incorporates the artistic spirit that flows through its talented chefs.” Vasyliev, originally from Kyiv, refined his skills in Paris. He will be joined in the kitchen by head chef Tetiana Verestiuk, who has been part of Mriya since its inception.
