As the countdown to Fat Tuesday begins in Michigan, Market 22 in Maple City is set to hold its 13th annual paczki run once again.
Fat Tuesday, also known by many as Paczki Day, is a day for indulging in sweets like the popular deep-fried Polish doughnuts. Since first opening 13 years ago, Market 22 has partnered with New Palace Bakery in Hamtramck to offer authentic Polish paczki. Market 22 coowner Neal Kokowicz, who operates the restaurant with his wife, Melanie, has been making the paczki run to Hamtramck with staff for over a decade now, and said while it’s certainly gained popularity over the years, this special tradition has always continued no matter the quantity they sell. Kokowicz said he likes to leave the task to the people that are authentic, adding that the New Palace Bakery owners have produced tasty, authentic paczki for over 100 years now.
Kokowicz said around Market 22 is a distinct Polish community that has traditions dating back many generations. On Fat Tuesdays, he said they get a chance to see a different customer base visit the market, which is wonderful and helps make the paczki tradition a meaningful one.
