A small broth shop I visited during my trip to Vilnius last September.

A small broth shop I visited during my trip to Vilnius last September. It first opened in 1969 at the beginning of Jogailos Street.

The shop still operates in its original location today, preserving not only its traditional menu but also much of its original interior. There are two tables along one wall and three along the other, with the middle ones standing tall and designed for eating while standing. This was one of the first things I noticed, as bar tables without stools are not something I often see in cafés back in London.

Trays of freshly baked pastries line the counter, a kettle of hot broth is always ready to be poured, and a friendly woman greets each customer. I ordered Žemaitiški blynai, a potato dish filled with pork and served with a rich mushroom sauce, and it was absolutely delicious. Lithuanian food in general relies heavily on potatoes and sour cream, and this spot feels like the perfect place to try proper comfort food.

The owner, Akvilija Meškauskienė, has been running the shop for almost as long as it has existed, and its future depends entirely on her. I wish family businesses run forever as it plays a key role in our society among the wave of franchisee entrepreneurs entering the food game in our streets.