Maplewood’s Culinary Adventure: From Comfort Food to Eastern European Delights

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Maplewood’s Unique Blend of Comfort and Tradition

Maplewood, a brewery and distillery rooted in Chicago, has introduced a culinary twist to its offerings. With executive chef Joanna Janczurewicz at the helm, Maplewood has begun serving nostalgic American comfort food infused with Eastern European influences. From lazy dumplings to pizza topped with ketchup, the menu is a delightful exploration of flavors.

A Shared Cultural Heritage

Maplewood Lounge, situated in Logan Square since 2017, expanded its kitchen under Janczurewicz’s leadership in 2025. “We do a lot of Polish food,” she explains. “And Hungarian and Czech.” Additionally, she manages the culinary experience at the newly opened Maplewood Public House in Glen Ellyn.

Lazy Dumplings: A Signature Dish

The lazy dumplings, known as kluski leniwe in Polish, offer a simplified approach to pierogi. These dumplings use similar ingredients but remove the need for individual filling. Described as soft and saucy, they are complemented with lemony breadcrumbs.

“Traditionally, they’re served sweet,” says Janczurewicz. “We offer them in an Alfredo-style sauce.” Each batch is crafted with farmer cheese, egg, flour, and butter, followed by a gentle cooking process. The sauce includes bacon fat, peas, dill, cream, and parmesan, topped with toasted lemon breadcrumbs.

Janczurewicz’s approach captures the essence of Eastern European comfort, catering to the diverse cultural landscape of Chicago.

Pork Butter and Cultural Roots

The culinary journey continues with pork butter, or smalec in Polish—a silky spread enriched with spices and served with sourdough bread. Janczurewicz’s innovation lies in enhancing her mother’s traditional recipe with spices and cracklings.

“Once you taste it, it’s full of flavor,” she assures. Chicago’s vibrant Polish community resonates with Janczurewicz’s Eastern European roots.

Joanna Janczurewicz’s Culinary Path

Coming from Dorchester, Janczurewicz learned cooking alongside her family. Her journey into the culinary world began unexpectedly, transitioning from her role at Northwestern University to various opportunities in local restaurants.

Ascending through positions at Perkolator, Twisted Hippo, Owen & Engine, and Publican Quality Meats, she honed her skills under influential chefs. These experiences shaped her approach to flavors and nostalgia.

Iconic Dishes at Maplewood

Janczurewicz’s mushroom baguette pizza demonstrates her playful take on Polish street food, enhanced by a hint of ketchup. Her chicken Kiev, developed with a blend of light and dark meat, showcases tender flavors.

Additional offerings include potato babka, Polish meatballs, and a kielbasa plate. While some dishes are exclusive to either Maplewood location, each item reflects cultural pride and culinary innovation.

Sweet and Seasonal Offerings

Maplewood’s dessert scene includes a farmer’s cheese dip and strawberry-rhubarb parfait. Unique beverages such as Apple Express THC drink provide a seasonal twist alongside timeless treats like the Fat Pug brownie sundae.

The Dining Experience

Maplewood Lounge and Maplewood Public House offer warm and inviting environments. Service at both locations varies, encompassing both personal and QR code ordering methods. Navigating service challenges remains an area for improvement.

Addressing communication gaps can enhance customer interactions, ensuring memorable experiences.