The vibrant community of Brunswick, Ohio, recently celebrated a significant culinary addition with the grand opening of Branka’s Bake Haus & Market, an event that drew one of the largest crowds seen by the Northern Medina County Chamber Alliance. This new establishment, deeply rooted in family tradition and a commitment to authentic flavors, promises to become a beloved local destination for handcrafted goods.
The ceremonial ribbon-cutting, a hallmark of such community milestones, was particularly memorable. Mayor Ron Falconi, holding a fresh loaf of bread, joined in cutting a colossal pretzel, symbolizing the unique blend of offerings. This lively commencement was followed by enthusiastic speeches from city, county, and state representatives, all extending a warm welcome to the new proprietors.
At the heart of Branka’s Bake Haus is the Djurin family, with CEO Igor Djurin, son of founders Branka and Goran, expressing profound gratitude for the community’s embrace. He also extended special thanks to the Rito family, whose long-standing bakery previously occupied the space and provided invaluable support during the transition.
The collaboration between the Djurin and Rito families has been described as “a match made in heaven.” After 40 successful years, the Rito family sought retirement, and their willingness to welcome another ethnic family, along with sharing their expertise in traditional Italian baking, ensured a seamless and supportive handover, preserving a legacy of quality in the location.
The Djurin family’s entrepreneurial journey began long before their arrival in Brunswick. With origins in Yugoslavia, they spent nine formative years in Germany before relocating to the United States a quarter-century ago, bringing with them a rich cultural tapestry and a passion for diverse culinary arts.
Their American business ventures started with a successful delicatessen in Lakewood. This was followed by the establishment of Das Schnitzel Haus in Parma, a popular restaurant that also featured a Schnitzel Ale Brewery. Their brewing operations later expanded with a dedicated facility and tap room in Strongsville, making Branka’s their fourth significant enterprise.
Central to Branka’s philosophy is the unwavering commitment to crafting “everything from scratch.” This dedication extends across their extensive selection of food, baked goods, and beer, promising fresh, authentic flavors. The spacious shop maintains a charming balcony area for dining in, alongside abundant options for takeout and comprehensive catering services.
Located conveniently at 1930 Pearl Road in Brunswick, Branka’s Bake Haus & Market welcomes patrons with generous hours: Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The establishment observes a weekly closure on Monday, ensuring dedicated time for preparation and rest.
