Petrushka

As stated on Pertrushka's menu: "Like the gypsies of old who traveled in their slow caravans through Russia and Eastern Europe," a sense of migration has taken place along El Cajon Boulevard from the Russian Georgian Restaurant Pomegranate to Eastern Europe at Restaurant Petrushka, "whose dishes reflect significant culinary traditions found along the Danube River and the Balkan Peninsula."

Seven years ago Dmitriy dined at Pomegranate and had the pleasure of meeting Mark, who co-owns the restaurant. Dmitriy was astonished by how genuine and unique the restaurant was, and he admired its success. Dmitriy was interested in starting his own restaurant and acknowledges Mark as a great mentor, so the two began talking about creating something together. In December of 2009, Petrushka came into being just two doors down from Pomegranate, in a neighborhood both partners believe has soul. Dmitriy is from Latvia, a country in the Baltic region of North-eastern Europe. Although his background is in law, he prides himself on great customer service and is passionate about serving people the food he knows best and loves.

Petruska's menu is derived from the flavors of Serbia, Romania, the Czech Republic, Ukraine, Latvia, Hungry and Bulgaria. Dmitriy is confident these dishes are not available anywhere else in San Diego. Dmitriy welcomes customers into the restaurant as if they were entering his home. The colorful tiles, aged wooden tables, glass bottle candle sticks, antique piano, colorful flags, and pillows make for an authentic and cozy environment which is anything but boring. Dmitri hates boring! By the end of the evening, when his guests have eaten, and they are filled with satisfaction, Dmitri is also fulfilled.

Of course, it doesn't end there. In fact, word has it that the gypsy caravan is still on the go. As long as progress continues as it has at Petrushka, the block will continue to expand with a traditional café and bakery, accompanied by the sounds of balkan gypsy music. That's right; the cultural revitalization of the El Cajon Boulevard is in full swing!