Today we’d like to introduce you to Malgorzata Rogala.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
If I had to begin my story, I would say this: I have never given up.
Life brought many challenges — moments that could have broken me. But instead of breaking me, they made me stronger and wiser. Every obstacle taught me resilience. Whenever problems appeared, I found the strength to move forward.
For many years, I studied economics while also attending music school, where I trained in piano. I was part of a vocal ensemble and choir — I have always loved music and singing. Music shaped my creativity, discipline, and sensitivity.
After coming to the United States, I entered a new stage of learning. I studied computer networking and web design because I knew I had to adapt to new technology. Later, I attended real estate school and started my own business. Reinventing myself in a new country was not easy, but I was determined to grow.
Through all of this, cooking was always my safe place. It was my peace and my joy. When I cooked, everything else became quiet. Seeing people smile after tasting my food gave me confidence and wings.
For years, I collected recipes on handwritten notes and small pieces of paper because I didn’t want them to be lost. That is why I created my blog, GosiaR Home Cooking. It was the first time I shared my passion publicly. Then catering became the next step. Slowly, my passion turned into something bigger.
I am also the proud mother of three wonderful and intelligent sons. It was for them that I began sharing my recipes on YouTube. I wanted them to have something lasting from me — a memory, a legacy. I didn’t want my personal recipes to disappear. I wanted them to live on for my children and future generations.
In 2023, we opened Kowalski Deli — the first Polish store and deli in Charleston.
The beginnings were not easy. Once again, there was a lot to learn. But with the help of my husband, Mark, everything felt more possible. We complement each other. Each of us has responsibilities where we feel strongest, and when needed, we support one another.
We work together. We live together. We are together 24 hours a day. We share businesses, we share the same approach to life, and most importantly — we share the same goal. Having a shared vision is everything.
Opening Kowalski Deli was more than starting a business. It was about bringing a piece of Poland to Charleston. It was about tradition, culture, and flavors that remind people of home. Today, we serve hot meals, delicious sandwiches made with authentic Polish meats, and offer products imported directly from Poland.
When I see happy customers — when they tell me our food reminds them of their childhood — I know it was all worth it.
Kowalski Deli is not just a store.
It is heart.
It is heritage.
It is home.
Today, I am blessed with amazing sons, a beautiful family, a precious granddaughter, and a strong partnership built on love, trust, and a shared purpose.
And my journey is not over.
My next dream is to write a cookbook — so my recipes, my story, and my love for cooking can live on for generations to come.
This journey has not been easy.
But it has been worth every step.
And I am proud of how far we have come.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Moving to a new country wasn’t easy — new language, new challenges, a new beginning. But my determination and love for learning gave me strength.
I’ve always believed in helping others. Giving from the heart, without expecting anything in return, has always brought me the greatest joy.
I have always been actively involved in my community. I volunteered in my children’s schools and with the Scouts, and I even had the honor of serving as a youth soccer coach.
Today, I proudly serve as the President of the Polish organization in Charleston, continuing my commitment to bringing people together, supporting our community, and promoting Polish culture and traditions.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about kowalski Deli LLC?
Kowalski Deli is a true taste of Poland in the heart of Charleston.
We specialize in authentic Polish cuisine made from traditional family recipes and quality ingredients. Our menu features homemade pierogi, traditional sausages, hearty soups, cabbage rolls, schnitzels, and our famous Pączki.
We also offer delicious sandwiches made with authentic Polish meats and specialty imported products. Fresh, hot meals are prepared and served daily, bringing comfort and tradition to every plate.
What truly sets us apart is heart. Kowalski Deli is built on community, hospitality, and the love of sharing Polish culture through food. When you walk through our doors, you don’t just enjoy a meal — you feel at home.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Starting Kowalski Deli was a major risk — opening a business in a new country, in a competitive industry, required courage and faith.
I don’t believe in reckless risk-taking. I believe in thoughtful, purposeful risk. When I started Kowalski Deli, I believed in my vision and in bringing authentic Polish tradition to our community.
The biggest risk was believing in myself — and that has been the greatest reward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Kowalskidelichs.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kowalskidelichs
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17H7MF7tzZ/
- Youtube: GosiaR home cooking
- Yelp: https://share.google/CTRJTkNGMH3qlUh4g
- Other: https://polishcharleston.org
