Here’s something new for you in Downtown Phoenix: Milk Bar. Remember that cream colored building on the corner of McKinley and 3rd St.? The one that sat empty for so long?
Well Darek Pasieka has redeveloped the space into an incredible bar and restaurant celebrating Polish culture with a modern twist.
Built in 1909, the Western colonial/modern style house, (historically named the Marsh Arnott House), has changed over the years, a reflection of its diverse tenants. The structure has served as a residence, law office, art space, and hair salon before becoming a European bar.
When Pasieka’s company, Studio Darek, took on the adaptive reuse project, there was a lot of speculation from the neighborhood about what was in the works. Some thought a cult while others thought it a tribute to Anthony Burgess’ Clockwork Orange. Alas, neither is true. But Darek’s a good sport and has added a drink onto the menu called Clockwork, which is made with Zolta Gorbka Orange and Clove Vodka and is utterly delicious.
Since 1896, Milk Bars, or Bar Mleczny, have been a staple of Poland and Eastern Europe, especially for the working class during the Soviet Era. As the name entails, it was here that traditional milk-based dishes were served at a reasonable cost. After communism fell, Milk Bars remained popular hangouts because of the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
“These Milk Bars – known for affordable food but high quality—would survive as nostalgic relics. Milk Bars to this day have stayed popular as a meeting place for people of all walks of life,” says Darek.
At Milk Bar, the potato is king. Lining the menu are euro posh vodka drinks and pierogi stuffed with combinations of cheese, spinach, mushroom, and meat.
As an accomplished architect, and now restaurant/bar owner, Darek Pasieka continues to turn heads with his ‘past meets present’ ideas. As he puts it, “Respecting the past, celebrating the present, and looking into the future. This is my architecture.”
Join us this month for an unforgettable Get Your PHX as we head to Phoenix’s Milk Bar. Pierogi provided courtesy of our host, Darek Pasieka, and cash bar for drinks. Bonus points for anyone that dons a bowler hat, eyelash embellishment or white suit!
As always, please RSVP below. “Na zdrowie!”
(Cheers!)
Where: Milk Bar: 801 N. 3rd St.
Date: Thursday, April 23rd
Time: 6:00PM – 8:00PM
Bonus: Pierogi and prizes! Don’t forget your raffle ticket at the door!
RSVP: April Get Your PHX: Milk Bar
