The Kafana: A taste of Europe in Downtown Belleville
On Wednesday, October 1, 2025, The Kafana Restaurant officially celebrated its long-awaited grand opening and ribbon cutting at 199 Front St.—a dream that’s been 15 years in the making for co-founders Corinne Sykes and Myroslava Symonenko.
The event drew plenty of community support, with Mayor Neil Ellis, Councillors Garnet Thompson and Margaret Seu, MPP Tyler Allsopp, Jill Raycroft from the Belleville Chamber of Commerce, Victoria Watts from Economic Development, Eileen Brown from Trenval, and DBIA Executive Director Danielle Hanoman all on hand to cut the ribbon and welcome the new addition to the downtown core.
So what exactly is The Kafana?
“The original inspiration was based on a European style, late-night cafe kind of vibe, a gathering place with live music and dancing,” explained Sykes.
Since their soft opening in late 2024, the restaurant has already built a loyal following. Belleville diners have been quick to embrace the eclectic menu and the cozy, communal atmosphere. Sykes admitted she was taken aback by the emotional response:
“People are so excited and ecstatic to have an eclectic option, a place that’s open late and open on weekends. (But) I was not expecting to make people cry, in a good way—they remember their babas (grandmothers) making these dishes.”
And that’s exactly the heart of The Kafana. “That was the whole point of opening The Kafana: to create a place where everybody of all ages, all backgrounds, could feel at home,” Sykes added.
“We’re thrilled to welcome The Kafana to Downtown Belleville,” said Hanoman. “Their passion for creating a space where people can gather, celebrate culture, and feel at home truly embodies what our downtown is all about. Businesses like this bring vibrancy, diversity, and energy to the district, and we couldn’t be more excited to see them thrive here.
The location itself was no accident. “Kafanas are traditionally located in the central square of a town,” said Sykes. “When this corner plaza space became available, it felt like the perfect fit. There were many signs that we’re supposed to be here.”
Sykes brings years of experience as a mixologist, along with a background in food service and experiential food tours in California. Symonenko adds her expertise in marketing, Ayurvedic cooking, and her Ukrainian heritage—together shaping a menu that blends hearty pierogies, Balkan-inspired plates, and modern takes on classic European comfort food. All of it is made with fresh, local ingredients.
And the celebrations aren’t stopping with the ribbon cutting. This weekend, The Kafana is hosting a one-year anniversary bash you won’t want to miss. On Saturday, October 4th, expect a lively Balkan brass band, dancing, and food specials. Then on Sunday, October 5th, enjoy live Ukrainian folk music with your brunch.
Downtown Belleville has officially gained a new go-to spot for food, music, and community. And if the first year is any indication, The Kafana is just getting started.
