At Balkan Bakery, every bite tells a story. Behind the warm, flaky burek and the decadent slices of Kinder cake lies a story of resilience, love, and unwavering determination. This is the journey of our founder, Olja Igic—affectionately known as "Majka Olja"—who turned a little black recipe book into a thriving business that celebrates Balkan culture and flavors.
A Journey of Courage and Hope
Olja’s story begins in Novo Selo, a small village near Vučitrn, Kosovo. Life took a dramatic turn during the NATO bombings, forcing her to leave behind her home, her memories, and her life as she knew it. As a widowed mother of three, Olja faced the unthinkable: starting over from scratch. Among the few items she chose to bring with her was a small black recipe book filled with handwritten family recipes—a symbol of her heritage and a reminder of home.
After seeking refuge in Mataruška Banja, Serbia, Olja endured immense hardships, including financial struggles and the illness of her youngest son. Determined to create a better future for her children, she made the life-changing decision to immigrate to the United States. With her family and her recipe book in tow, Olja arrived in Chicago, ready to start a new chapter.
From Humble Beginnings to Sweet Success
In Chicago, Olja worked tirelessly, taking on various jobs to support her family. Her culinary talent soon caught the attention of a local restaurant owner who hired her to bake desserts. Using the recipes from her little black book, Olja recreated the flavors of her homeland—rich, nostalgic desserts that resonated deeply with the Balkan community in Chicago.
Her creations quickly gained a loyal following. Customers couldn’t get enough of her baklava, burek, tulumbe, and other traditional Balkan sweets. Encouraged by the overwhelming response, Olja decided to take a leap of faith and open her own bakery. In 2007, Balkan Bakery was born in the heart of La Grange, Illinois.
A Legacy Built on Love and Tradition
Balkan Bakery quickly became a beloved destination for both Balkan and American customers. Olja’s dedication to authenticity and quality set the bakery apart. Every pastry, cake, and savory item was made with love, care, and the finest ingredients, staying true to the recipes passed down through generations.
Signature items like the Kinder cake, Bajadera pralines, and Jaffa slices became instant hits, while her savory burek and pies brought a taste of home to many. The bakery became more than just a business—it was a cultural hub where people gathered to celebrate their heritage and enjoy the comfort of traditional Balkan flavors.
Continuing the Legacy
After years of hard work, Olja retired, passing the torch to her daughter-in-law, Marija Pejkovic, in 2020. Marija has since expanded the bakery’s offerings to include European specialty imports, wines, spirits, fresh juices, and catering services, while maintaining the same level of care and authenticity that Olja instilled.
Today, Balkan Bakery is a testament to Olja’s legacy—a story of resilience, passion, and the enduring power of food to bring people together. Her little black recipe book, once a symbol of hope, has become the foundation of a thriving business that continues to honor Balkan traditions.
Read More About Olja’s Journey
To dive deeper into Olja’s inspiring story, check out the full article featured in Serbian Times: Read the Full Article Here.
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