by In Simpson, Pennsylvania, a timeless culinary tradition lives on through handmade pierogi crafted from a multi-generational family recipe.
One man’s nostalgic journey to rediscover his childhood favorite led him back to the source — a small town still holding tight to its Eastern European roots.
What Happened
Michael Onufrak, a producer and food enthusiast now based in Los Angeles, spent years trying to track down the pierogi that once defined his family gatherings. His search brought him back to Simpson, a former coal mining town in Northeastern Pennsylvania, where his family once bought pierogi from a local woman named Mrs. Garbera.
What began as a childhood memory turned into a full-circle rediscovery of both tradition and flavor.
Key Details
Onufrak recalls trips with his grandfather to Simpson to pick up the beloved pierogi, which were always prepared with onions and butter. The source? A woman known as Mrs. Garbera, whose daughter continued the tradition after her retirement.
Years later, Onufrak found his way back to the same recipe — now made and sold by Petrosky Pierogi, operated by Brian Petrosky and his sisters Pam and Brenda. The recipe remains unchanged and uses Cooper Sharp cheese, not cheddar, which clarified a mystery that puzzled Onufrak for years.
Additionally, the town is also home to Oprisko Kielbasa, a century-old kielbasa shop revived by local teacher David Rupp, who now crafts both classic and modern kielbasa varieties with devotion and care.
Reactions or Statements
David Rupp, now the owner of Oprisko Kielbasa, shared that his business was saved from being sold to out-of-state buyers when he stepped in to preserve its legacy.
He modernized the operation with new kielbasa flavors such as jalapeño cheddar and honey sriracha, all while maintaining traditional smoking methods.
Brian Petrosky confirmed that his mother, Diane Petrosky — daughter of Anna Garbera — is the original source of the family’s iconic pierogi recipe. Now 89 and retired, Diane’s children continue making pierogi by hand, just like their Ukrainian ancestors did.
Investigation or What’s Next
Onufrak’s journey reignited public interest in preserving small-town culinary legacies.
With younger generations like the Petroskys continuing the work, it appears these traditions are in good hands.
Meanwhile, the popularity of handmade pierogi and specialty kielbasa continues to grow beyond Simpson, reaching customers nationwide — including Onufrak himself, who ordered a $170 shipment to California.
FAQs
Where is Simpson, Pennsylvania located?
Simpson is a small town in Northeastern Pennsylvania with strong Eastern European roots.
What makes Petrosky Pierogi unique?
They use a family recipe that includes Cooper Sharp cheese and hand-make every dumpling, continuing a multi-generational tradition.
Can you buy Oprisko Kielbasa online?
Yes. David Rupp ships kielbasa and pierogi nationwide by request, especially around holidays.
Who originally made the family’s pierogi?
Anna Garbera (née Zavacky), a Ukrainian immigrant, passed the recipe down to her daughter Diane, who then passed it to her children.
What flavors does Oprisko Kielbasa offer?
Traditional smoked kielbasa plus modern versions like blue cheese, jalapeño cheddar, and honey sriracha.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Simpson, Pennsylvania remains a hidden gem where old-world traditions thrive in modern times.
Thanks to families like the Petroskys and small business owners like David Rupp, timeless flavors of Eastern Europe continue to be celebrated — one pierogi and kielbasa at a time.
