Hello dear
Welcome To Cafe Dacha
At Cafe Dacha, nestled in the heart of Highland Park, we celebrate the rich flavors of traditional European cuisine. Our story is one of passion and heritage, offering beloved dishes like Varenyiki and Ukrainian Borscht that embody comfort and nostalgia. Diners appreciate our simple yet exquisite menu, crafted with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The warm atmosphere is complemented by attentive service and delectable homemade desserts, from classic Honey Cake to indulgent Chocolate Gelato. Customers rave about our shareable plates, making it a perfect spot for gatherings. At Cafe Dacha, every meal is an invitation to experience culinary joy and connection.
Taste the best
Discover Our Menu
Beef Tongue
US$18.00Grilled Salmon
US$32.00Add Dark Bread (2)
US$1.75
Add Dark Bread (4)
US$2.50Add House Bread (2pc)
US$1.00Add House Bread (4pc)
US$2.00
Kids Butter Noodles
US$6.00Kids Nuggets And Fries
US$12.00Any Sauce Extra Side
US$0.50 About
Cafe Dacha
Cafe Dacha is a hidden gem located in the heart of Highland Park, Illinois, at 675 Central Ave. This charming cafe invites you to experience a blend of traditional European and Ukrainian cuisine. With a reputation for quality and authenticity, Cafe Dacha has caught the attention of food lovers and casual diners alike.
The cafe may feature a compact menu, but it offers a carefully curated selection of dishes that speak volumes about its culinary expertise. Highlights include:
- Beef Tongue - a tender delicacy priced at $18
- Chopped Beef Liver - rich and flavorful for just $12
- Fried Adriatic Style Calamari - a delightful appetizer available for $15
- Varenyiki and Pelmeni - classic dumplings that are a must-try
- Lamb Stuffed Bell Peppers - the standout special at $32, offering a hearty and satisfying experience
Patrons like Roman Sher rave about the cafe's classic dishes, noting that everything is "really tasty," while others like Fabio Sorano praise the attentive service that enhances the dining experience. Descriptions highlight the cafe's welcoming atmosphere, perfect for cozy meals or sharing plates among friends.
The ambiance is as inviting as the menu. With a summer terrace that's perfect for warmer days, the cafe embodies a relaxed yet vibrant feel, further amplified by delightful cocktails that please the palate. Oxana P notes the freshness of the food and the friendly service, while Wendy Stanford emphasizes the balance of flavors that make every dish memorable.
In addition to its savory offerings, Cafe Dacha also excels in crafting homemade vodka infusions that are soft on the palate, recommended to those who appreciate a good drink in a friendly setting. With each visit, the cafe promises a delightful culinary adventure that brings you back for more.
Whether you're indulging in Lamb Kebab, Chicken Tapaka, or simply enjoying the warm hospitality, Cafe Dacha is a spot that satisfies and delights. This cafe is not just a place to eat; it’s an experience waiting to be savored.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ A wonderful cafe in a resort town. The cafe has a small menu, but it consists of classic European dishes and everything is really tasty. The bar pleases with delicious cocktails. In warm weather, I recommend the summer terrace. ”
“ Hope you had a wonderful dinner at dacha. The service was very attentive, delicious Ukrainian food. Our server suggested and helped us order dishes that were easily shareable, so we got to try a lot of different things. Will be back. ”
“ The best place to have very tasty homemade food, especially I like Chicken tapaka and lamb kebab. Very good vodka infusions, don’t feel alcohol and also homemade. Waiters are very friendly. Definitely will come again! ”
“ Amazing! The food and desert were fresh and delicious, cozy atmosphere, great service! Truly recommend, such a great place! ”
“ This restaurant is FABULOUS! The flavors are perfect, not overdone. The atmosphere, comfortable and it has a light feeling. I highly recommend it. ”
“ I had an amazing experience at Cafe Dacha! The stuffed cabbage rolls were absolutely delicious—perfectly cooked and full of flavor. The Beef Stroganoff was equally impressive, with tender meat and a rich, creamy sauce. Everything was so fresh and beautifully prepared. Thank you for such a wonderful meal—I’ll definitely be coming back! ”
“ A True Taste of Home at Cafe Dacha Cafe Dacha is a wonderful haven for Eastern Europeans craving the taste of home. Every dish we ordered was clearly prepared with love and care. We started with unique drinks—my husband tried a new Ukrainian beer and was not disappointed, while I enjoyed a vodka soda with a delightful cherry twist. The borsch was full of rich, authentic flavor. We also had a long-standing craving for fried potatoes, which weren’t on the menu, but the staff happily prepared them for us—an unexpected and much-appreciated gesture. The lamb kebab was incredibly tender, melting in the mouth with each bite. For dessert, I had planned to save part of my Napoleon cake for later, but we couldn’t resist and ended up finishing it on the spot. It was perfectly crusty rather than moist—exactly how I love it and rarely find it prepared. The service was both quick and exceptionally friendly. Even though the restaurant was full, it remained peaceful and gave us the perfect setting to talk and celebrate our wedding anniversary. Definitely recommended—we’ll be back for more! ”
“ The food and drinks were phenomenal, server was very polite and great. Highly recommend. ”