Sawa’s Story
The story of Sawa’s Old Warsaw Restaurant is as rich as the flavors that fill its famous smorgasbord. It all began with Walter Sawa, a man whose journey took him from a humble life as a pork butcher in Poland to becoming the owner of one of the most beloved Polish restaurants in Broadview.
Walter’s life was forever changed in 1939, when World War II erupted, and Germany invaded Poland. Like many brave men of his time, Sawa joined the resistance, fighting in defense of his country. His courage earned him medals of honor from both the Polish and British armies, but his fight came at a cost—he was captured and held in a prisoner of war camp. Refusing to accept his fate, Walter escaped, eventually making his way to Scotland, where he lived before immigrating to the United States in 1948.
In America, Sawa found himself in the heart of Chicagoland’s thriving Polish community. By the 1960s, he had opened several restaurants throughout the city, but in 1973, he established the one that would become his legacy—Sawa’s Old Warsaw, located at 9200 W Cermak Rd, Broadview, IL.
What started as a dream of sharing authentic Polish cuisine soon became an institution. For decades, locals and visitors have gathered at Sawa’s for its legendary buffet-style dining, featuring traditional favorites like pierogi, stuffed cabbage, potato pancakes, broasted chicken, and carved roast beef. Over the years, the restaurant has continued serving these comforting dishes. Walter Sawa’s legacy lives on in every dish served, honoring his resilience, his passion for food, and his dedication to keeping Polish traditions alive in Illinois.
5 Reasons to Visit Sawa’s Old Warsaw in Broadview, IL
1. The Vibes: A Step Back in Time
From the moment you pull up to Sawa’s Old Warsaw Restaurant in Broadview, you know you’re in for a one-of-a-kind experience. The glowing neon lights outside set the stage, a beacon for anyone craving classic Polish comfort food. Walk through the large wooden doors, and it’s like stepping into a time capsule—a mix of old-school Chicago, a grand banquet hall, and a retro supper club all rolled into one.
Inside, the red velvet curtains drape dramatically, adding to the nostalgic charm. The plush carpet, the warm lighting, and the lingering scent of hearty Polish cooking all contribute to an atmosphere that feels frozen in time in the best way possible. Whether you’re reminiscing about family dinners from decades past or experiencing it all for the first time, Sawa’s is as much about the ambiance as it is about the food.
Dining here isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of place where you could just as easily imagine a wedding reception in the 1970s as a big Sunday dinner in 1990s Chicago. It’s Broadview’s very own time portal, offering a glimpse into a different era while serving up timeless Polish flavors.
2. The Smorgasbord
If there’s one thing that Sawa’s Old Warsaw Restaurant is famous for, it’s the legendary smorgasbord. This isn’t just a buffet—it’s a Polish feast, overflowing with classic comfort foods that have kept diners coming back for decades.
You’ll find pierogi stuffed with savory fillings, crispy potato pancakes, and stuffed cabbage slathered in rich tomato sauce. There’s also broasted chicken, tender carved roast beef, and the kind of ham that reminds you of big family gatherings. Every dish is prepared with tradition in mind, ensuring that each bite is just as satisfying as the last.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, the smorgasbord at Sawa’s is Chicagoland’s answer to all-you-can-eat comfort food. Grab a plate, take your time, and savor the flavors of Poland—just be sure to leave room for the next course!
3. The Salad Bar
Before diving into the heavier, heartier options, a stop at the classic salad bar is a must. It’s a throwback to old-school dining, offering crisp greens, fresh toppings, and a variety of dressings. But it wouldn’t be Sawa’s without some Polish flair, so don’t be surprised to find tangy sauerkraut, traditional soups, and a few surprise specialties that add even more character to the experience.
For those who love a little bit of balance in their meal, the salad bar is a refreshing way to start before heading back for the richer dishes. And let’s be honest—it’s always fun to build your own plate, Midwest supper club style.
4. Polish Tacos
Sawa’s might be known for its traditional Polish cuisine, but its Polish Tacos have become an unexpected cult favorite. These aren’t your typical tacos—you won’t find crunchy shells or salsa here. Instead, Sawa’s Polish Tacos are a hearty fusion of flavors, featuring tender carved roast beef, BBQ-style meats, and sometimes even potato pancakes wrapped up in a soft, doughy base.
It’s a perfect bite for those looking to try something a little different while still staying true to the comforting, home-cooked goodness that makes Sawa’s special. Whether you try them as part of the carry-out menu or load up on them during your dine-in visit, the Polish Taco is a must-try for adventurous eaters.
5. The Desserts
After making your way through the smorgasbord, it’s time to indulge in some classic Polish desserts. Whether you’re craving blintzes filled with warm cheese and topped with powdered sugar, a slice of apple pie, or a comforting bowl of fruit compote, the dessert selection at Sawa’s Old Warsaw is the perfect way to end your meal.
No matter what you choose, one thing is for sure—you won’t leave Sawa’s hungry.
Plan Your Visit to Sawa’s Old Warsaw
Located at 9200 W Cermak Rd, Broadview, IL, Sawa’s Old Warsaw has been a staple of Polish cuisine in the Chicagoland area for decades. Whether you’re in the mood for pierogi, broasted chicken, stuffed cabbage, or one of their famous Polish Tacos, there’s always something delicious waiting for you.
Visit sawasoldwarsaw.com for more details on their menu, hours, and carry-out options. And next time you’re craving a little taste of tradition, head over to Broadview and step into one of Illinois’ most iconic Polish restaurants.
