23. Odessa Restaurant (Opened 1994)

Odessa Restaurant

The famed Odessa Restaurant in the East Village will be closing its doors for good this Sunday, July 19th. Located at 119 Avenue A between Seventh Street and St. Mark’s Place, the Ukrainian eatery was a neighborhood staple and a favorite late night stop for partygoers. Its closure marks yet another business shutting its doors for good in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The restaurant opened in 1994, and much like Katz’s Deli, was known for its reasonable prices and huge portion sizes. The pierogis are a staple menu item, but other options include kasha varnishkes, blintzes and borscht, in addition to American breakfast staples.