By Jane Bokun
At Big Frank’s Sausage in East Chicago, Indiana you can get more than Polish sausage, there’s big-time, nightclub-like entertainment as well.
“We started doing some comedy shows in the restaurant,” says owner Stan Stefanski. “I knew one of the comedians and set up a show. On the ticket, along with the shows, there’s a full bar and Polish food buffet in the modest restaurant on 1417 Carrol Street in East Chicago.”
“We plan on doing another comedy event in the summer,” Stefanski said.
“The comedy was great,” said patron Pam Grkinich.
Right now, Stefanski is focused on the restaurant and its beefy golabkis (or hamburger and cabbage rolls) along with fluffy pierogis and potato pancakes garnished with sour cream and apple sauce. Big Frank is not around. He’s the restaurant’s namesake and brother of Stan. He also provided the secret sausage recipe.
“We’ve been open for about five years and so far, the restaurant’s been successful,” Stan Stefanski said.
Indeed, customer Ismael Bonilla eats frequently at Big Frank’s along with his friend. George Hook.
“I’m a vegetarian and Stan suggested I try the mushroom pierogis,” Bonilla said. He also likes the cabbage and noodle dish.
Along with potato, sauerkraut, spinach, meat, mushroom and cheese pierogis, there are belly buster subs, homemade Polish sausages, deli dogs, pizza and much more. Food can be eaten in or taken out of the restaurant. There also are Polish groceries, deli meats and homemade sausage to take-out. Patrons wanting to join in Big Frank’s events should check the web page at http://www.bigfrankssausage.com.
“There’s something for everyone here,” agreed George Hood.
When opened: July
Location: 1417 Carrol St., East Chicago
Phone: (219) 378–9556
E–mail: stanstefan@msn.com