Balkan Restaurant Buka Bakehouse Open in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Two brothers are opening up a new bakery and restaurant, inspired by their home country of Kosovo.

Buka Bakehouse Comes to Grand Rapids, Mich.

A new Balkan eatery, Buka Bakehouse is in its soft opening phase at 888 Forest Hills Ave. SE, where Marco's American Bistro used to be.

Buka Bakehouse, Facebook

Brothers Bujar Selimi and Agim Selimi are behind Buka Bakehouse.

According to Crain's Grand Rapids, the brothers fled Kosovo in 1997 with their family, seeking refuge in America during the Yugoslav Wars. In 1998, the family moved to West Michigan.

Bujar tells Crain's,

Coming from where we were, it was like we jumped a hundred years into the future,” he said of moving to the U.S. “We’re grateful for what this nation and the people here have done for us. And now, what can we do to also give back in a way? We know food. We’re going to give flavor and hospitality, which is what we know.

What is Balkan Food?

Balkan Food combines European cuisine with some of those from Western Asia.

According to Will Fly For Food, Balkan cuisine is known for its diversity and strong intense flavors. It often features pickled vegetables, hot peppers, and feta cheese.

Buka Bakehouse Soft Opening

Buka Bakehouse began its soft opening phase in December. The to-go side is now open Tuesday-Sunday from 7am-3pm.

Buka Bakehouse Menu

Currently the new restaurant is serving an assortment of pastries and artisan breads, plus lunch specials like all Burek, Pide and pizzas by the slice! Everything is made fresh daily.

Buka Bakehouse, Facebook

Burek is a pastry made with thin, flaky dough and a variety of fillings, like meat, cheese, spinach, or potatoes.

Pide is a rounded flat bread stuffed with toppings.

Once fully open, the cafe will serve breakfast, more lunch items like sandwiches, plus soups, salads, and dips.

When Will Buka Bakehouse's Grand Opening Be?

Owners say the grand opening of the bakery and cafe will be in January 2024.

Follow Buka Bakehouse on Facebook for updates.

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Gallery Credit: Janna