Ukrainian restaurant serves fresh sushi despite war challenges

In Slovyansk, Ukraine, Serhii Kovalov is determined to keep his restaurant, Slavnyi Horod, open despite the ongoing war. Fresh sushi is now a popular dish in a town increasingly affected by conflict. Even after a missile destroyed his apartment, Kovalov remained committed to serving the community. Sushi was not part of the menu before the war began in February 2022. With supply chains disrupted, Kovalov worked hard to create new logistics routes for ingredients. He and his colleagues even traveled themselves to deliver fresh fish from suppliers in central and western Ukraine. The restaurant has become a source of comfort for both soldiers and civilians. Kovalov adapts to the challenges, including power outages, by cooking outdoors and using generators. Despite the risks and hardships, he believes it is important to stay and support his town. Customers in Slovyansk appreciate the chance to enjoy sushi, even if it is not always the best. For many, it provides a brief escape from the harsh realities of war. The presence of other sushi restaurants in town shows that the demand continues to grow. Kovalov acknowledges the constant uncertainty of war but believes his purpose is here in Slovyansk. “I know I’m needed here,” he says. Despite the risks posed by nearby fighting, he plans to keep the restaurant open to offer a taste of normalcy in these difficult times.