Veselka is to the Lower East Side what beets are to borscht: the heart and soul. For generations, writers and artists have gathered there, drawn in by food that’s affordable and tasty and by an atmosphere conducive to intellectual debate and inspiration. Honoring Veselka’s rich history, we’ve revitalized the brand across print and digital, launched its e-commerce site, led SEO and digital advertising, and even executive-produced its documentary. The result: a fresh take on a classic, celebrating over 70 years of legacy while looking ahead.

Identity + Branding

Veselka was founded in 1954 by Ukrainian immigrants and since then, has grown into a cultural landmark and a symbol of resilience for the Ukrainian-American community. As its agency of record since 2009, we continue to shape their visual identity across print, packaging and digital platforms. More than 15 years later, we've helped guide Veselka’s expansion beyond 2nd Avenue to Madison Square Garden, Williamsburg, Grand Central, and NYC’s holiday markets, supporting every step of its evolution while staying true to its roots.

Environmental

From chalkboard A-frames, window decals and even custom van decals, every design detail helps tell Veselka’s story. Skaggs Creative worked closely with the team to craft environmental branding that honors their Ukrainian roots and East Village heritage, inside and beyond the restaurant. Whether it’s their 2nd Avenue flagship or a new outpost, each space feels distinctly Veselka: warm, welcoming, and full of history.

Restaurant Collateral

Veselka’s print materials blend tradition with creativity, capturing the essence of the restaurant’s history and vibrant personality. Skaggs Creative designs all of Veselka’s print marketing, including posters, press kits, retail decks, restaurant menus, table cards, check backers, and promotional postcards. Each piece is crafted to keep the brand’s visuals fresh and engaging—amplifying its iconic status while welcoming new generations to fall in love with its comforting flavors.

Digital Marketing + Website

We transformed Veselka’s website into an e-commerce platform, enabling in-house frozen product shipping and lowering third-party costs. The relaunch included refreshed copy, imagery, and email campaigns designed to streamline the customer experience. The new site connects visitors to Veselka, letting customers order online, explore Veselka’s film and TV cameos, and connect with its legacy from anywhere.