We love sharing the stories behind the amazing local products we carry at Anna’s, and one of our favourites comes frozen, filled with flavour, and steeped in tradition — Little Foot Foods’ handmade pierogis!
But Little Foot Foods isn’t just a name — it’s a legacy. And it all starts in 1929, with the birth of Joan Dycha (née Dabrowski) in Poland. In 1938, Joan immigrated to Canada with her mother and sister to join her father, who had made the journey ahead of them. Settling in Windsor, Joan grew up surrounded by the warmth of the Polish community, becoming known for her beauty (she even won a few beauty contests!) and her love of home cooking.
Joan believed in real food, made from scratch, with heart. From pierogis and cabbage rolls to rich, vibrant borscht, Joan’s kitchen was a place where tradition was lovingly passed down. That tradition made its way to her granddaughter, Rachael Myers, co-founder of Little Foot Foods.
In 2013, inspired by her grandmother’s classic potato and onion pierogis, and with a little encouragement from friends and family, Rachael took a leap of faith. Alongside her partner Robert, she started making pierogis to sell at the Downtown Windsor Farmers Market. They were a hit! People loved the ultra-thin dough, the flavour-packed fillings, and most of all, the connection to something deeply familiar and nostalgic.
But Rachael and Robert didn’t stop there. They thought, “What if we took these traditional pierogis and gave them a twist?” That spirit of tradition meeting innovation became the heart of Little Foot Foods. They began experimenting with creative new flavours and working with local producers, staying true to their roots while embracing fresh, local inspiration.
Soon, demand outgrew the market stand. Little Foot Foods moved into a dedicated facility on Tecumseh Road East, giving them room to grow and collaborate with other local makers. They introduced their first pierogi-making machine (don’t worry — every pierogi is still individually inspected by hand) and began selling their creations at grocers all over Windsor-Essex.
Over the years, they’ve developed over 100 pierogi flavours, many created in partnership with local chefs and restaurants. From classics to creative combos, each one is a little bite of comfort, with a twist.
By 2021, they needed even more space. That’s when Little Foot Foods moved into their new home at 2010 Fasan Drive in Oldcastle, Ontario — lovingly dubbed Pierogi HQ. Today, they offer 50 flavours (35 exclusive to them!) and proudly retail not only their pierogis but also local favourites like Robby’s Gourmet Sausages.
Now over a decade in business, Little Foot Foods continues to honour Joan’s legacy by creating high-quality, locally made food that brings people together.
We’re proud to carry Little Foot Foods pierogis in our freezer here at Anna’s. Whether you're a fan of the classic potato & onion or you're ready to try something a little more adventurous, there’s a flavour waiting for you.
Come grab a bag (or three) and taste the tradition — reimagined.
Pssst... When Anna's Club members shop Little Foot Foods in-store from Wednesday, July 30th, until Wednesday, August 6th, they'll receive 20% off!
