Exploring Poland: A Culinary, Cultural, and Ancestral Journey.

By Sharon Kurtz

Setting off to explore Poland’s culinary treasures revealed a destination brimming with history, culture, resilience, and rejuvenation.

Last autumn, the Polish Tourism Bureau invited me to experience the country’s vibrant food scene. The 2023 Polish Michelin Guide acknowledges twenty-seven eateries, ranging from Bib Gourmand venues offering excellent value for money to Michelin-starred fine dining establishments boasting tantalizing tasting menus and exquisite wine pairings. It was a delectable immersion into Poland’s flourishing gastronomic revival.

Dining in fourteen of the Michelin-recommended restaurants in nine days was incentive enough. Still, connecting with my ancestral roots heightened my interest in traveling to Poland.

As Heritage Tourism gains momentum among travelers, I attempted to retrace the steps of my great-grandparents, who once resided in what is now Poland. Like countless others, their narrative serves as a testament to Poland’s complex history and enduring spirit.

Armed with stretchy pants, I eagerly explored Poland’s lively modern dining scene infused with culinary inspiration. From savoring traditional pierogi filled with cabbage and potatoes to indulging in elevated gourmet options, every bite was a delight. While vodka is the national spirit, Poland’s emerging vineyards produce prize-winning wines. With world-class chefs returning home to craft dishes that push boundaries and gain recognition from Michelin, Poland’s lively dining scene seamlessly blends traditional flavors with influences from around the world, including French, Asian, and even Scandinavian cuisines.

While traveling through Poland, I strongly connected to my ancestors and wanted to explore my family history. In middle age, I unexpectedly discovered my Ashkenazi Jewish Eastern European heritage, something that I was completely unaware of. Unfortunately, the answers to our family’s history were lost with the passing of those who knew. After investigating, I found that my great-great-grandparents immigrated from a small town near Poznan to Michigan in the early 1800s. This revelation highlighted the link between the past and present.

Poland’s history is a tapestry woven with threads of triumph and tragedy, fortitude, and perseverance. Despite centuries of division and occupation by stronger neighbors, Poland endured, regaining its sovereignty, and rebuilding a nation marked by tenacity and optimism. Following World War II, Poland experienced the brutal occupation of the Nazis. Subsequently, it faced a period of Soviet control, which lasted until it achieved self-governance in the year 1989. Throughout these challenging times, Poland has demonstrated remarkable strength in reclaiming its autonomy and reconstructing a nation characterized by resilience and optimism.

The medieval squares of Warsaw, Krakow, and Poznan truly wowed me.

• Despite the devastating impact of the Nazi regime, Warsaw’s market square stands tall as a remarkable testament to the unwavering resilience of the Polish people. The city’s painstaking reconstruction efforts have resulted in its well-deserved recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring the museums in Warsaw provided me with an eye-opening and often heart-wrenching glimpse into the significant chapters of Polish history, particularly at the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews.

• Krakow’s expansive central square, among the largest in Europe, was a feast for the eyes. The colorful architecture, miraculously untouched by the ravages of war, created an enchanting atmosphere that came alive at dusk. Illuminated buildings and street musicians added more magic to my evening strolls. The historic gem of Wawel Castle, once the home of Polish royalty, offered breathtaking views and a chance to immerse myself in the grandeur of regal chambers and corridors.

  • The Kazimierz district was once home to a thriving Jewish community with approximately 64,000 Jews before the Nazi’s devastating actions during World War II. Now, it features well-preserved synagogues and trendy cafes.

  • The Schindler’s Factory Museum was a poignant and educational experience, telling the story of Oskar Schindler and his efforts to save Jewish lives during the Holocaust.

• Poznan, located in western Poland and the first capital of Poland, is known for its rich history and lively culture. Key attractions include the historic Old Town Square, where you can admire beautiful architecture and the iconic Town Hall. The Code Breaker Museum highlights the contributions of the city’s mathematicians in unraveling the Enigma Nazi war machine. Their groundbreaking work was crucial in decrypting secret messages during World War II, ultimately aiding Allied victory.

Whether it’s for delving into family history, immersing oneself in the beauty of green landscapes and rich culture, or indulging in exquisite cuisine, Poland deserves a prominent spot on your travel bucket list. While I may not have fully unraveled the enigma of my ancestors in Poznan, their presence reverberated through the streets I walked. Equipped with newfound knowledge, I eagerly anticipate returning one day to weave the intricate tapestry of my personal history.

Until we cross paths again, Poland, dziękuję, and farewell.

Sharon Kurtz is a freelance writer who shares her love for travel and food by exploring unique customs, cultures, and flavors at home and around the globe. While she calls Austin, Texas. home with her husband and two spoiled dogs, her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. At 12 years old, she traveled by train with her father to Montreal for Expo ’67, the exhibits inspiring her wanderlust. She vowed to get to all those countries someday, and she’s methodically working through the list. Sharon has a way of crafting a story that pulls you in, holds your attention, and entertains you along the way. She is always looking for that unique angle to bring a fresh perspective to a story. Enjoy more of Sharon’s writing on her website, or follow her on  Instagram or  Facebook.