Loved the food at Elena's! We were in the area and found the pictures on Yelp appetizing. We walked in and were amazed with the amount of options available. There were salads, baked goods, cakes, hot foods, and more. The prices were displayed on the monitors above. It was definitely hard to choose and everything looked freshly made. We opted for the sausage, brisket, pierogis, some croissants, and garlic bread. The staff were so nice explaining some dishes to us, and being patient while we were choosing. There was some seating on the cafe and outside. We brought our food to go. Everything tasted great! We will definitely be stopping by again to try more of their stuff and even their cafe items. read more

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Nice place. We found for a co-worker that wanted Russian food for lunch. The dishes were fantastic and the selection of meat was to die for. This must be a place to try. You can ask what it is if you don't speak Russian. This is a truly a great place to eat. read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - Food - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

Menu is big. Food quality is excellent and the service is fast and friendly. Ambiente is ok for lunch. read more

I don't know what took me so long to write my memory about this place. We've enjoyed the food here at least half a dozen times and every visit is great. Since I am not particularly familiar with Eastern European cuisine, I appreciate how patient & helpful the staff is whenever I have questions about their Russian/Ukrainian specialties. The process here is straightforward and organized. You start at the counter service section where an attendant guides you through the various cases, helping you select and package your items in compostable containers. Once you have finished making your choices, they bring everything to the register where a separate cashier handles the final transaction. Even when the shop is busy, the line moves efficiently and the food cases are constantly replenished. The majority of what we tried were delicious (plov, cabbage rolls, rubleni, stuffed fish rolls, vareniki, samsa, chicken rolls, syrniki). Some dishes can be a bit heavy on the salt for my personal taste (borscht, meatball soup). Overall their food is hearty, warm and comforting. Beyond the prepared hot food, they offer an impressive variety of refrigerated goods, pastries, and deli staples. I appreciate that this establishment has convenient hours where I can stop by after work to bring home a quick dinner (10am-8pm except Sundays). We have yet to eat at their adjoining brunch restaurant which is under a separate listing called Elena's Cafe. read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

I came to Elena's Kitchen & Catering because I kept seeing it all over TikTok, especially the kid pancake artist palettes. Honestly, consider this my de-influencing review. Just a heads up if you're planning to visit for the first time: the location is kind of hidden in a strip of warehouse/office buildings, so I actually drove past it at first. Once you walk in, there are two different sections. The left side is a sit-down café and the right side is more of a cafeteria-style area with pastries, drinks, and some of the viral items I've seen online. We ate on the café side, so my review is based on that experience. I was SO excited for my kids to try the pancake artist palettes. They serve mini pancakes on a paint palette tray, with colorful flavored syrups in the paint wells and a little paintbrush so kids can "paint" their pancakes before eating them. It looked adorable and like such a fun experience. Unfortunately, both of my kids absolutely hated them. They each took a bite and refused to eat any more, which is unusual because they both love pancakes. I tried the different syrup flavors myself, and while they're technically edible, I honestly thought they tasted pretty bad. The concept is cute, but the actual taste was not good in our opinion, and it ended up being a waste of money for us. The service also wasn't great. The girl at the register had a very "meh" attitude and didn't seem particularly friendly or welcoming and no one welcome you when you are there either . For my autistic son I ordered a plain burger because he won't eat it if it has sauce on it. When it came out, it wasn't plain. I let them know, and instead of having them remake it, I asked if they could just give me an extra bun since he could still eat the burger itself. They did bring extra buns, which I appreciated. I also ordered a mango chia bowl, and it took 40 minutes to come out. Forty minutes for a chia bowl is kind of crazy. I had actually gotten up and was waiting in line to ask for a refund when I noticed the girl at the register say something to the waitress, and suddenly my chia bowl appeared. It honestly felt like it had been forgotten about until I went up to the counter. As for my food, I ordered a croissant sandwich. It was okay,nothing special, but not terrible either. In total, I spent about $67. My younger kids didn't eat their food, my oldest son's order was wrong, my croissant was average, and I waited 40 minutes for a chia bowl. I drove quite a distance because I saw this place trending online, and unfortunately it did not live up to the hype for me. Maybe it's a better spot for adults, or maybe I just caught them on an off day. Either way, this was a one-and-done visit for my family, and I won't be returning. read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - Chia bowl - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

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This is a hidden spot. It has Ukranian/Eastern European food. It's hidden under the guise in an office mall area. It is near Mcclellan airplace and the contractors store. They are open early to late in the evening 8pm. During regular meal hours it seems they have a regular lunch menu, smoothies, coffee, the other side are ready made meals, freshly made bread, salads, desserts, drinks, ice cream, tea, etc!! Nice indoor seating, plenty of space. Plenty of parking-it's a little hidden and if you weren't looking for it you might miss it. Highly recommend this spot for brunch, lunch or quick dinner pick up. read more

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At my work, we placed a large catering order for lunch. We decided on the cold lunch (sandwiches and wraps) with a side salad. On the day of delivery, the driver was super helpful with helping us load the food on a dolly so we could deliver to staff. It was such a large order, and took quite a while to get everything loaded and distributed. The driver was very patient which was very much appreciated. The staff really enjoyed the food. For the price, it was a decent amount of meat. Also, the side salads were tasty too! I will definitely keep this place in mind for future catering events. read more

It's our first time here, the food is really authentic, the pizza is really good, we have ordered a lot and finished everything. Kids loved their pancakes, really interesting. read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

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We regularly order catering for work from Elena's Kitchen and Catering, and they never disappoint. Their service is always exceptional -- professional, punctual, and so easy to work with. Everything arrives on time, well-organized, and ready to serve, which makes coordinating work events completely stress-free. The food is consistently delicious, and their stuffed fish is hands down the number one item we order every time. It's always perfectly cooked, flavorful, and a huge hit with everyone in the department. You can truly taste the care and quality in every dish. Highly recommend Elena's Kitchen and Catering for any event. read more

I recently visited Elena's Cafe in Sacramento to purchase pastries for my son's high school graduation celebration. Unfortunately, my experience was extremely disappointing. When I entered the store, there were several employees present, but I was not acknowledged. I asked about purchasing pastries and was told to stand in a line, with my attention directed to a sign that was not in English. I followed the instructions, but I was confused because everyone in that line appeared to be ordering hot food, not pastries. Another customer suggested that I go to the register for assistance, so I did. After waiting while two employees walked away without helping me, an employee finally began assisting me with my pastry order. During this interaction, another employee with short black hair appeared upset that I was being helped and began speaking to the employee in Russian. The situation made me feel unwelcome and uncomfortable. After selecting my pastries, I briefly stepped away to grab a bottle of compote. When I returned, I was told to go to the back of the register line. I complied without argument and waited my turn. When I finally reached the register, the employee became increasingly hostile. She repeatedly scolded me for not standing in the correct line, even though I had been following instructions given by both staff and another customer. I apologized and explained that I was simply trying to understand the process, especially since the store was busy. Instead of helping clarify the situation, she mocked my comments, handled my purchases aggressively, slammed items into bags, shoved the receipt into the bag, and told me to leave. I spent approximately $75 in the store and left feeling embarrassed, disrespected, and unwelcome. I came in excited to purchase special European pastries for my family before an important celebration and instead left in tears. I acknowledge that, in my frustration and shock, I knocked over a jar on my way out, and I regret that reaction. However, nothing that occurred justified the level of hostility and disrespect I experienced as a customer. I hope management reviews how customers are treated and provides clearer guidance regarding ordering procedures so that others do not have a similar experience. read more

I like this place--though, admittedly, there are a great many Russian and Ukrainian speakers here. I enjoy it because they offer many of our traditional Slavic dishes, such as *syrniki* and *blinchiki*; in fact, the food is actually quite good--especially the dried-fruit *kompot*. read more

After hearing about this place, we decided to check it out. We looked online before going, but, we're not prepared for what we walked into. It was a huge place with so much to see and choose from. With the help of our coworkers, who were already there, we ordered food to go. Everything looked delicious from the hot foods to pastries. They also have a coffee bar with great seasonal options. We will definitely be returning! read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - Chicken kebab, Chicken meatball, lamb chop, cabbage roll and rice pilaf. - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

Must try: Chicken kebab Roasted potatoes Kharcho soup Mango avocado salad Mango chia seed Cherry drink Cabbage pickle Ok: Beef brisket Duck leg read more

It was very clean, service was fast and polite, and food was delicious and big variety. Happy. Thank you.

Amazing food and service, if you are looking to try some traditional Slavic cuisine this is the place to go.

First visit. We had heard how unique Elena's is. We really enjoyed everything from a vast assortment. Service was excellent. A very well run place. A Ukraine based huge menu. Good photos which describe what the foods are. Your selection is weighed then you pay, cafeteria style. All very fresh. Not many English speakers but they try to understand you. We are adventurous eaters so we tried things which were new to us and enjoyed it all. Recommend on your first visit you walk through to see the assortments first before getting in line. And save room for dessert! This is a really wonderful place! A must try. Many people go in for take out, we enjoyed eating there. We will be back! read more

They added some new stuff. I'm glad I stopped by and checked it out. You got a good amount of food for how much you spent here and it's all fresh very fast pace and very busy around lunchtime lots of family come here and children. I'm so glad this place is around because it has a variety of a little bit of everything. Definitely check it out very clean and professional. read more

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This place has a cafe and a cafeteria type style with two separate entrances which was really confusing initially since they're open different hours. The cafe was alright but nothing super special. The service was nice but there was a language barrier so they didn't know got to communicate what certain items were. Overall it was a nice little drop in spot to grab a bite. read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - I came over an hour to try this place. Hours online state 830 to 7. But it's wrong. I wasn't able to try this place - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

I recently had my first experience with Eastern European cuisine and decided to try the chicken kebab plate. The dish featured succulent chicken kebabs served alongside crispy fried mini potatoes and a refreshing arugula salad drizzled with zesty lemon dressing. A sweet red sauce accompanied the meal, which I found delightful for dipping everything in. In hindsight, I regret not saving room for dessert--it seemed like the perfect way to cap off the meal! Service was good !! Can't wait to try other things on the Menu !!! read more

Great service and amazing food. We got the prosciutto pizza which was recommended and made by Yura. Pizza tasted great, thin crispy crust and loaded with goodies. The Dubai croissant, smoothie, and americano were also delicious. read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - Prosciutto Pizza - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

I purchased a few salads and kebabs and duck legs. Everything was delicious. The store is so clean and modern.

Nice place , different food and sweets variety, enough to choose from. My favorite find was pistachio croissant, so yummy and melts in my mouth. Place was clean and everyone was so friendly and helpful. read more

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I had the pleasure of dining here multiple times while in town on business. I found the food interesting and unique, the service friendly, and the ambiance welcoming. I noticed it was busy every day and at all hours when I would visit. I'm American with no knowledge of Russian or Ukrainian food and everyone was more than happy to explain all the different foods and pastries. I can't recommend this place enough and I'll for sure visit every time I pass through! read more

Elena's Kitchen has a nice mix of European and American dishes, and as a Romanian I find this spot to be a good choice when I'm looking for something familiar yet different. The flavors are comforting and remind me of home, while still offering options that fit the American side of the menu. You can stop in for dine-in and enjoy the cozy atmosphere, or grab takeout that holds up well. The staff is kind, and the food comes out fresh and well-prepared. It's not a fine dining place, but it feels genuine, approachable, and welcoming--exactly the kind of kitchen you want in the neighborhood. read more

Great food. Slavic cuisine, and Elena herself is an incredible person to support. Foods taste really good. Very big variety and very fresh

This place is great! A hot food section, a deli, bakery and cafe in one. I was surprised to pass by and when I stopped to poke my head in, I was amazed to see all the wonderful things they had to offer. I couldn't resist their Strawberry Matcha Latte and some of their hot foods. I'm so happy such a place has opened nearby and I will definitely be frequenting this establishment! read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - Strawberry Matcha Latte - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

This place is really nice inside. I love the market/cafe combo. They have so many different things here, I will definitely have to return to try other items. I got the mini pancakes this time with a passionfruit lemonade and it was 10/10. The custard and raspberry syrup with fresh berries put those pancakes in a league of their own. The lemonade was quite refreshing too. read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - Mini pancakes - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

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Their Broccoli salad is the BEST I've tasted, loaded with fresh Broccoli crowns, red onion, sunflower seeds, raisins, dried cranberries in a delicious Mayo based sweet creamy dressing. This salad is addictive. Also their Pavlov rice dish is hearty with chunks of tender beef & seasoned rice. read more

For our family, it's the best place to eat to celebrate and just to be together!!! Place has a bunch of different meals - and what I like the most- prices are Not high !!!!! It's a very clean and modern café !! Workers are super nice and polite !!! Food is always fresh !!!! read more

I absolutely love this place. The variety, the authenticity, over all well made food with such a large variety. The only thing is it is such a large selection I want to try everything. read more

Tasty european cousine. Plov, meats, soups are excellent. Not cheap, but affordable prices. I would say $$. Usually fast, but it the lunch time have to wait around 20 minutes. read more

Recently, I placed an order with "Elena's Kitchen & Catering" for a party of 20 people. To begin with, I was carefully listened to by the manager, Irina, and received helpful advice on the order, taking all my wishes into account. Then I received an email with a detailed list of all the dishes and their prices. This eliminated any possible misunderstandings. The order was delivered exactly at the scheduled time. I would especially like to highlight the quality of the delivery. All the dishes were packed in special containers: those that were supposed to be hot were hot, and those that were supposed to be cold were cold. The driver was exceptionally polite and helped with unloading, announcing each dish as he did so. We were pleasantly surprised to find serving spoons and tongs included with the order. The taste of the dishes was beyond praise. Among the wide variety, I would like to highlight the Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls, Vareniki, peeled yellow potatoes with creamy garlic dill sauce, beef tongue, honey cake, and creamy beet salad with prunes, garlic, and almonds. I believe I can recommend "Elena's Kitchen & Catering" to anyone planning a home party with a large number of guests in the Sacramento area. read more

Many different delicious dish options. Fast service, fresh food, indoor and outdoor seating. read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - Delicious food! This Cafe is a hidden jem - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

Authentic Russian comfort foods, all the home cook foods. Great value, good prices, friendly staff.

This place is a gem! it's tucked in a light industrial area and/so there's plenty of parking; I imagine the rent is lower here so they can really focus on the fantastic food! We'd heard of this place and are so glad we tried it! I know little about this kind of cuisine and it's been wonderful to expand my horizons. I'm obsessed with pelmeni and any kind of dumpling and theirs are fantasmagorical. Yum! Also LOVE their borscht! Their honey cake is divine, I've never had anything like it before and it beats the heck out of the same old boring chocolate cake you get everywhere. I love the vibe there too! I'm embarrassed that I don't speak the language they speak there but they're super nice and put up with me anyway :) It's so fun to go on a Sunday and see everyone dressed up from church getting treats! Love this place! read more

The worst customer service ever. All of the products are listed in Russian and English, but cashier and sells people only speak Ukrainian. If you tell them you don't speak Ukrainian they become irritated and openly aggressive. read more

First time coming here today. Husband and I loved it, Cafe has a lovely atmosphere! And a very kind and welcoming staff. We got the solyanka, village potatoes, and syrniki. Didn't get a pic of the Syrniki but they were so delicious! Definitely will be returning read more

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Food at the cafe is top notch. Pleasant and clean environment. We ordered the borscht, chicken pelmeni, chicken bacon sandwich, and potato pancakes. So delicious. Made to order food. Workers are nice and helpful! Next time we will try the deli and bakery. read more

Behind of my every my review is real story. So when I lived in Bay Area for 5 years at winter time I was visiting Lake Tahoe for snowboarding. And every time on my way I was visiting Elena's at previous location, which was pretty small, but food was delicious. Circumstances brought me to live in Sacramento and of course I started exploring city and growing top-10 places to eat. And I found Elena's at new location, which was pretty big and selection of food was better. I started visiting this place and I was enjoying with "bliny", "oladee" for breakfast and other food options. I recommended to all my friends and they was excited and happy to visit this place too. Some employees was speaking in Russian, some of them in Ukrainian. I prefer to speak in Russian if someone can't speak in English. I absolutely respect everyone and don't want to be mean, but most of the employees was speaking with me in Ukrainian, which is rude, because I have no clue what they saying. The same time some of them was speaking Russian before. I started getting upset and trying to explain to speak in English or Russian, but not Ukrainian. Probably because of politics they are reacting for Russian speech agressive and demand to serve in Ukrainian. I called to manager to explain about situation, so I want to be far from politics and want to buy food and leave. Instead of explaining employees so better to speak in English and behave professionally she start blaming me so I hate Ukrainian speech and I'm behaving and treating bad. Ridiculous and absolute lie. Manager was on the same level as employees. I said I absolutely don't care about Russian or Ukrainian language and I just want professional service. And if you live in US please speak in English, because it's probably international and local language. She didn't admit anything and was arguing nonstop. Second time I was visiting this place, one of the visitors start screaming because I blocked access to plastic spoons. I was paying at cashier with kids and communicating with them in Russian. I find out later so visitor was Ukrainian. We almost got into the fight, because he was yelling at me. Later he start filming me. Such a loser. In short my last experiences was horrible. This place has negative personalities and hate for not Ukrainians I guess, which is dumb. Funny fact they are hiring barrista and post was in English and Russian. Such a hypocrites! Unprofessional service and poor communication skills can ruin everything! read more

Elena's Kitchen & Catering - Post in Russian. - Caterers Near Me - North Highlands, California

I was really looking forward to trying this place, but after buying the potato pancakes, I was totally disappointed. Not only did they taste terrible (with minced white onion mixed in), but I paid $30 for myself and one other person who also got the potato pancakes. Yuck. I can make my own much better. I have not tried the desserts so I cannot judge that. They look delicious. read more