I have been to Paul's Pel'meni more times than I can count. I have likely spent hundreds if not over a thousand dollars here in my life thus far. I have brought friends and made many people fans of these dumplings. Somehow I hadn't reviewed until now! Delicious, cheap, hearty dumplings. Good for takeout or a catch-up with friends in the space. I miss their old location on Gorham, but this one has more seating. read more

They only sell one thing here which has 2 flavors: ground beef and potato. We got the mix order. They were so good. We liked the ground beef better than the potato. The ratio between dough and filling was perfect. We added the sauce to it as well minus sour cream. I really think the sauce really enhanced the pelmeni's flavors. read more

Such a simple and easy concept. You have three filling options: beef, potato, or both. It's topped with some spices, cilantro, and a side of sour cream. Super filling and a really good amount of food. Full size for $8 or half size for $6 read more

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We wanted to try the pelmeni here based on the reviews and unfortunately left disappointed. We got a 1/2 order mixed with the works (yellow curry powder, chili sauce, cilantro, sour cream) for $5. The pelmeni themselves were ok but the same as you find in any Russian deli. You have a choice here, plain or the works, thats it. It's an interesting business model, basically selling one product with no variation, the opposite of the Subway model. Because of the apparent success of the business there must be a lot of people who like the works. More power to them but it didn't work for me. It was lacking in flavor and complexity. It's like something a college student would throw together after a night of drinking. Wait! that's the business model. ha ha Listed in Drive Across America: https://www.yelp.com/collection/4_4-FCUBHEQBq43u7DXRig read more

Paul's Pel'meni - 1/2 order mixed with the works $5 - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

I played pool against the owner from here (Paul). I beat him, but good. Wiped the floor. Or the table, as it were. He then insulted me, my family, my country, my lack of religion, and then stayed mad at me all night. I guess you can conclude that Paul's a Pool-meanie. What to get: Mixed Pelmeni And what do you call it if your dude goes all over your fingernails: Pearl-mani Billy Idol has been taken off the radio, btw. Not White Wedding or Rebel Yell, but they've decided to "pull Mony." If you're cruising Madison for cute college students (and there are many), make sure you Paul over when you see this place, because you'll be in for a real treat. I had very, very low expectations for this place. I was absolutely shocked. Indeed, this little Russian place was really amazing! They know how to season their stuff all the way to make it taste really good. I'm not a fan of bland stuff, and a lot of food (especially in college towns) can be bland. I don't think these Pelmeni would be as amazing without the seasoning. The potato ones are nice, but a bit bland, and the meat ones have a little more flavour to them. But it's all the seasoning that makes it great. Plus the fact that these are so original and unusual, and especially that they are so cheap, is a huge plus. Much like the flag of Switzerland is a huge plus. And I love that they do half orders as well for somebody like me, who doesn't want to fill themselves with unhealthy food. Whereas filling myself with unhealthy boys? I'm all about that. Certainly this is the most innovative food I've had in Wisconsin, and definitely one of the highlights of eating in Madison - which granted isn't great - but this place is. The guys are super friendly, and there's a bar attached to it on the inside as well. Now would you like to be attached to me on the inside? And if you're going to take the skin off an orange, don't just do one. Peel many! read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Paul over and try it - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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never thought id be craving eastern european dumplings served to me in a box by some college kids every week but here i am. paul really is that bitch for serving the same few menu items bc he knows it works. and at a good pricepoint!! 10/10 love u paul read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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It's funny how all the photos are the same because they only serve one thing. Or two things because the pel'meni come with either beef or potato filling. Also I think they serve rye bread on request which technically constitutes a third thing. That's not a complaint at all. I like when establishments find what they're good at and stick to it. And Paul's seems to get plenty of traffic and have plenty of fans. Paul's was on my radar before I visited Madison but I dropped in because I was wandering down State St. and was looking for something to eat but wasn't starving. I also didn't have any cash. It's not like I couldn't have gotten some, but Paul's does take cards. The atmosphere is a little "down and dirty" but in a good way. You come in and order from the abbreviated menu. But there's a whole bar in the back where you can sit. I wasn't drinking, but there's a couple of "Alaskan" brews along with several other drafts and taps. (I've seen pel'meni advertised as "Alaskan" dumplings, though it seems they're of Russian/Siberian origin.) There were soccer and basketball on the TV, seemed to be a student crowd on a weekday afternoon (but I know how that can change.) I got a mix of the beef and potato pel'meni with "the works." As some reviewers noted I also liked the beef ones best, but the potato ones added some variety. I saw the bottles of sriracha and what looked like vinegar. I should have been braver. But the chili sauce/butter/cilantro/curry combo they came with worked too. The pel'meni were good as a substantial snack and probably excel as drunk food too. Glad to see something a little unusual has a following. read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Half Ground Beef and Potato Pel'meni Mix. With the works. - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Nifty little place to get a legit taste of Russian style dumplings made in 100% authentic fashion. Go for the 50 50 mix of beef and potato to sample both. Generous portion for the full order at under $8 you cant go wrong. The cook I had was really cool in explaining how they make them and what ingredients are used. Dine in or take out, either way your getting a great deal on a delicious little lunch or dinner that is off the beaten path. Good way to break put of a lunch or dinner rut and try something new. read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Ground Beef and Potato Pel'meni Mix (Full Order) - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

It was my first time trying these dumplings. Priced reasonably and an easy location to walk to they did forget part of our order (2 pieces of rye) only reason for the 4 stars read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Solid food, great bar, the bartender was fun to chat with and knowledgeable about the area; great service

Simple dumplings. Potato or beef. Staff was kind to explain things on my first time there. Many different kinds of topping/garnishes. Wait was a little long even though there weren't many people in store, but it's understandable. Do not recommend keeping as leftovers for more than 2 days. read more

If I'd gone to college here, I would've lived close by. Absolutely delicious! I've had Polish Pierogis but this was far better than any I've had! The place is so quaint and odd that it's 5 star. Great bar area. Great atmosphere! The folks there really act like they care, service is great! read more

A great take on Russian Pelmeni. Delicious! I got take out and it was perfect for a meal.

Stopped in for lunch today with my daughter who loves this place. I'm so glad I tried it! We each got the potato and beef mix with the works and extra sour cream....delicious! I did notice interesting sriracha bottles that appeared to be filled with something other than Siracha. Reading other reviews it looks like it was vinegar...I think that would taste amazing with the works as well! Service was very friendly and pretty quick, and the place was ok to sit in for a quick lunch or late night. Definitely enjoyed! read more

There are different paths to success in restauranting. One is to offer a widely varied menu to give diners lots of choices. The other is to limit the choices but making sure what is served is awesomely good. Paul's chooses the latter path and does it so well! Small Russian dumplings are filled with either ground beef or potatoes (a combination serving is available). Toppings include butter, cilantro, curry powder, chili sauce and sour cream. Definitely worthwhile to get the works, mix it up and indulge your taste buds in some serious goodness. Half and full portions are available. read more

Low key dumpling shop and bar. The dumplings are delicious-potato, meat or a mix. The works toppings-especially the curry-enhance them. Inexpensive and delicious! read more

I. Love. Paul's. First off: the simplicity. You have one decision to make: beef or potato. I always get the mix, and of course get it with the works (curry powder, chili sauce, cilantro, and sour cream on the side). Sometimes it's worth it to get an extra tub of sour cream - it compliments the dumplings so well. This is surprisingly amazing late night food too, just be prepared to wait in a fairly large line. read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Large mix with the works - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Awesome place- the food hit the spot on late night eats- it's also pretty cool inside, and there so much you can try- and cool to grab a drink as well- check it out read more

Paul's Pel'meni always a good spot if you're looking for a good vegetarian option Also they have a full-service bar which is nice if you're just trying to get wasted in your off hours read more

Dear Readers, Paul's Pel'meni is a Madison staple! Everytime I go to Madison I make sure to take an order home. This place is simple and straight to the point. Also, who doesn't like dumplings? Let me take your order for you: a full beef order with the works (butter, yellow curry, sweet chili sauce, cilantro, and sour cream) + extra sour cream. Pro Tips: A full order is plenty for a meal + leftovers or to share. If you like sour cream extra is needed for a full order, call ahead (dumplings are freshly boiled) Love, Badger Alumni read more

After reading about this place, I decided it was the first place I had to eat while in Madison. My date and I got 'the works', and just enjoyed every bite. This is a place I'd suggest to anyone -- it's different in that they ONLY do the dumplings - beef, potato, or both. You can NOT go wrong with this place, unless you're avoiding bread (the dumpling wrap and/or potatoes). Will definitely visit again next time I'm in Madison! read more

It was simple. We ordered the mix with all the fixings. My first time having Pel'menis so I didn't know what to expect. Service was quick, nice little spot for some late night drunk food for sure bc they open late. Bar service was good, and self served water. Get the sour cream. I personally prefer a crisp outside and the pel'meni was soft all around. Mostly okay for me. Prob worth another visit to get a better or worse review. read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Mix with all the fixings - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

The old location was a solid 5, but something is missing at the new location. Ordering isn't as intuitive and the bar layout feels a bit weird to me, personally. The pelmenis still come out pretty quickly and are as satisfying as always. read more

Tasty cheap eats, open late. If you're trying these for the first time, I recommend getting a full order of the mixed, with everything on it. Won't leave you feeling sick in the morning, either. read more

Quick and cheap for snacks, lunches, or dinners! I would recommend the mix which has potato and beef dumplings. The full order is $7 and the small is $5, I got the small because I wasn't hungry at the time. I topped it with butter, cilantro, and some sour cream. But you could try all the toppings if you would like. I went with two Russian friends and they approved of these dumplings. We all agreed that it would be better if they have more options for their fillings. The space has a good vibe with an open bar also. The restrooms were not the nicest but they are alright. read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

I usually love Paul's, but last night I had a horrible experience that makes me not want to go back anytime soon. I am a vegetarian and I always order the potato pelmeni. Last night, I ordered potato as usual and was surprised to find that they had put meat in my order. I do not eat meat, but I accidentally did because I expected potato. When I told the workers what had happened, they did not care at all. They walked away from me and ignored me. I was only trying to let them know what happened to precent it happening to someone else, but the workers were completely dismissive and rude to me. It was very sad because I usually love Paul's. read more

Literally beef/potato dumplings. If you're ever craving carbs this is the perfect spot. My usual order is a full potato with the works. I don't believe they have sriracha on the tables in the dining area, so if that's your fancy just ask the staff and they'll happily get you a single serve cup of it. Great for a chill first date too :) read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Potato Pel'meni (Full Order) - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Super casual, simple, and a great value makes this a must if you're passing through Madison. I had the variety plate and it was fantastic and filling. Lighting fast service (though the place was fairly empty when I was there) and friendly folks added to the experience. I'd bit for real silverware and more drink options, but those are nitpicks. read more

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Decidedly delicious dumplings! This is a great stop for a cocktail and Pel'meni (little Russian dumplings). There are two doors in- the one on the right is the bar and the one on the left is the Pel'meni. We entered through the bar door and went around the hall behind the bar to order two full mixed orders (1/2 potato and 1/2 ground beef) with all the fixings. They bring the Pel'meni steaming hot to your table. They are served with sour cream on the side, and are tasty with or without it. The spices used on the Pel'meni include curry and cilantro with some sweet chili and buttery goodness. We tucked into the two orders and they were gone before you could say, "Oh, that's good!" I think I could eat a full order alone, although it's a great size to share among two. If you've never had Pel'meni, Paul's is the place to give them a try! read more

I really enjoy this place. It's very different to normal dumpling places I go to but it's not bad. The setting of the area is a bit weird but it's different and the clientele just seem like more of a mellow out crowd. Drinks are cheap and use their sriracha sauce on the dumplings. I think the sauce compliments it very well. read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

When you walk past, Paul's doesn't look like much. However, once you're in you know you've found a hidden gem of Madison. Open late nights too, the potato dumplings from Paul's are steamed with love. Though I do wish the dumplings were a little more flavorful on their own, they are quite plain. Would highly recommend getting all the "works" if you can handle some spice! Tastes best with their sour cream. The waiting area is quite small inside, so it's best to order ahead or dine in. One of my favorite classic spots to eat in Madison, I'd recommend it as a late night bite. read more

Stopped here after a cold hike at the arboretum and YUM. We randomly saw this place on google maps and it happens to be the only spot we're eating at in Madison. But we're SO happy with our choice! These were AMAZING. I got the potato dumplings and my friend got the mixed and they're so satisfying and tasty and omg. The sweet spicy sauce and curry powder add such flavorful additions! read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Potato Pel'meni (Full Order) - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

This place is so good. We go here almost every time we are in Madison. Great comfort food at a super cheap price. Go for all of the toppings and douse the dumplings in vinegar. Yum! read more

Excellent service and amazing food. Simple menu, fresh ingredients, and unique spin on a traditional Russian/Eastern European dish. read more

Paul's Pel'meni - The works - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Absolutely amazing! The potato pelmeni with the works was absolutely phenomenal. I will definitely be a frequent visitor.

Good dumplings. Good winter or drunk food. Check it out it's pretty good. Get them with the works and possibly some extra curry on them. If you are a dumping fan you will enjoy! Taste good in the store and to go! read more

Dumplings were kinda meh. Terrible location to pick up from. Bread was good, wish they'd given me both pieces.

Fire, decent price for decent amount of food. Potato over beef even though I typically like meat.

This is a classic Madison go-to. Have loved the carryout option from Paul's during COVID. They follow safety guidelines well and still provide just as quality perogies. Not to mention that they now offer a frozen option to take home and make at your leisure!! Would definitely recommend the mixed beef and potato with the works and add rice vinegar- hits the spot every time! read more

This is the best late night snack in Madison. You can't get anything quite like this anywhere else and every time i am in the city I need to stop by here. Even at 1:30am this place is packed but it is 100% worth it to wait 30+ minutes for this. Top 5 Madison locations read more

Paul's Pel'meni - Mixed Ground Beef and Potato Pel'meni Mix (Full Order) - Russian Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin