Fresh Look, Same Delicious Bite: Pierogi Papi’s New Logo Has Arrived
A Little Backstory
This project started out as a passion project that hasn’t even been officially launched. It was to be called “Real Businesses, Reimagined” and help me re-center my love for creating for fun while also promoting some of my favorite local businesses, artists, and makers. Instead of posting about these designs on social media, I shared them directly with the business they were about.
One thing led to another and I couldn’t be more excited to share the new logo for Pierogi Papi. I’m getting paid for this work in the form of the most delicious pierogi and I think that’s pretty cool. If you know me, you know I love trading. I have an entire Artist Trade Program dedicated to it as I fully recognize that not everyone has the cash to invest in professional branding and I love working with artists and makers. It’s my way of keeping things creative and fun.
If you’d like to work with Lettering Works in a paid capacity, reach out here, and if you’d like to apply for an artist trade, you can do so here.
Let’s dive into learning a little bit more about Max Glassman, the chef behind Pierogi Papi, and our work together…
Chef Max Glassman (aka Pierogi Papi)
Tell me a little about yourself.
I was born in Chicago and raised in Florida from the time I was 11; that’s where I learned to love food and cooking. I came back to Chicago when I was 22 to become a chef. I’ve worked at many restaurants all over Chicago from casual all the way to fine dining and upscale. I love all things food and am always down to give my recs!
What is your background that led you to cooking?
A childhood buddy’s godfather who is a fine dining chef suggested that I cook professionally after he tried something I made at his house. The rest is history.
Original + Reimagined Pierogi Papi logos
What led you to start your business, Pierogi Papi?
I wanted the freedom to create and bring light to the Polish cuisine and culture that is over overlooked or assumed as bland. Pierogi Papi was a part-time passion project of mine while I was working at Gather in Lincoln Square, now turned a full-time focus.
Why were you interested in trading with Lettering Works?
I’ve never had anyone invest in me the way Chelsie did. I was really impressed that she took the time to create all of the potential branding and that as a local business she cared about me and my work enough to share her ideas. I believe in always working with people that care for your product and vice versa.
I also really loved the hand-drawn approach as it mimics the hand-crafted quality of the pierogi that I make.
Pierogi Papi in action
Pierogi Papi serving up deliciousness
Your part of the trade is pierogi. What are some of your favorite pierogi you've made?
I’ve made beeria pierogi with Berto of Milo’s Market. Some other favorites are short rib, braised beef, and pizza puff, but most of all, my favorite is the potato and cheese.
How will your new logo help you level up in business?
My new logo will help me level up my professionalism. I’ve dedicated all of my attention to making sure I have the highest quality product but now I am at the point that I need to scale up the business. The logo and brand need to scale up with my evolution as well.
Pierogi Papi was recently named “Best New Pop Up” by Chicago Reader as part of their 2024 Best of Chicago Reader Awards.
Chef Max of Pierogi Papi receiving the “Pretty Girls Eat Pierogi” stickers
Pierogi Papi Branding by Lettering Works
Pierogi Papi brand elements + custom sticker design
Pierogi Papi Instagram Reimagined
Why do you think artists should consider applying for a trade with Lettering Works?
If you can’t afford a normal branding package, this program is a no-brainer. It helps the small guys!
You focus on pop-ups in Chicago. Where can people try your pierogi?
You can find Pierogi Papi popping up in Logan Square. Currently at Consignment Lounge (3520 W Diversey Ave) during the week, offering a rotating menu of pierogi and kielbasa. Check Pierogi Papi’s Instagram for the most up-to-date menus as well as pop-up locations.
Pierogi Papi work session at Consignment Lounge ft. Potato & Cheese pierogi and Chicken Bacon Ranch pierogi
Pierogi Papi Hand-Drawn Pierogi Pattern
Anything else you'd like to add, Max?
I want people to know that Pierogi Papi is small business that cares about the community we reside and work in. I want people to see that Polish culture is wonderful and the food we offer is a great representation of it.
Find Pierogi Papi on Instagram @pierogipapichi
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this project! Drop a comment below or send me a note.
If you are a small business owner looking for a rebrand, I would love to chat with you! Reach out here to get the conversation started and see if we are good fit. You can explore more of my branding work here and the Artist Trade Program here.
