The Difference Between Burek and Pita—And How to Eat Them the Right Way

If you’ve ever stepped into a Balkan bakery, you’ve likely noticed two irresistible pastries: burek and pita. They might look similar, but if you ask anyone from Serbia or the surrounding region, they’ll tell you there’s a world of difference between burek and pita. At Balkan Bakery, we believe every customer deserves to know what makes these specialties so unique—and how to enjoy them like a true local.

What Makes Burek Special?

Burek is the king of Balkan pastries. It’s made with impossibly thin, hand-stretched phyllo dough, layered and filled most often with seasoned ground beef or lamb. The dough is rolled or coiled into a spiral, then baked until golden and crisp on the outside, tender and juicy within. In Serbia and Bosnia, when you say “burek,” you’re always talking about the meat-filled version—anything else goes by a different name.

Burek is more than just a snack; it’s a meal in itself. Traditionally, it’s eaten warm, straight from the bakery, and is especially popular for breakfast or a hearty lunch. Every bite is rich, savory, and deeply satisfying.

What About Pita?

Pita, in the Balkan sense, isn’t bread—it’s a whole family of pastries made with the same delicate phyllo dough. Unlike burek, pita can be filled with just about anything: creamy cheeses, fresh spinach, seasoned potatoes, pumpkin, or even sweet apples and cherries. Each version has its own name (like sirnica for cheese, zeljanica for spinach, krompiruša for potato), but they all share that flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Pita can be rolled, layered, or coiled, then sliced into squares or wedges. It’s the perfect treat for any time of day—savory pitas for breakfast or lunch, sweet ones for dessert or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Burek vs. Pita: The Real Difference

Here’s the secret: in the Balkans, “burek” means meat, and everything else is “pita.” The dough and baking style are similar, but the fillings set them apart. If you want cheese or spinach, you’re ordering a type of pita, not burek. That’s why you’ll see both on our menu at Balkan Bakery, each one made from scratch with premium ingredients and time-honored recipes.

How to Eat Burek and Pita the Balkan Way

To enjoy burek or pita like a true local, start by pairing it with a cup of drinkable Balkan yogurt (“jogurt”). The tangy, refreshing flavor is the perfect match for the rich, flaky pastry. Don’t be shy—these pastries are meant to be eaten with your hands. Tear off a piece, dip it in yogurt, and savor the flavors.

The best time to eat burek or pita? When it’s fresh and warm from the oven. At Balkan Bakery, we bake our pastries daily, so you always get that just-baked taste. And don’t be afraid to branch out—try a sweet apple pita or a savory krompiruša to experience the full range of Balkan flavors.

Experience Authentic Burek and Pita at Balkan Bakery

Whether you’re craving the classic meat burek or the comforting variety of pita, Balkan Bakery in La Grange, Illinois, is your home for authentic Balkan pastries. Visit us to discover the difference between burek and pita—and taste the traditions that have been passed down for generations.

Curious to try burek or pita for the first time? Stop by or order online, and don’t forget to grab a yogurt for the full Balkan experience!