Balkan Food Alternatives in 2025 to Try (Chicago)
- Balkan Bakery
- Apr 29
- 5 min read
When it comes to Balkan cuisine, there’s a rich tapestry of flavors, traditions, and history woven into every dish. From hearty pastries to sweet confections, the Balkan region offers a culinary experience unlike any other. Luckily for Chicagoans, you don’t have to book a flight to Serbia, Bosnia, or Macedonia to enjoy these delicacies. With a growing Balkan community in Chicago, there are plenty of places to indulge in these authentic flavors. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Balkan dishes or a curious foodie, this guide will introduce you to some must-try Balkan food alternatives in 2025 and where to find them in Chicago.
1. Burek: The Iconic Balkan Pastry
Traditional Option: Burek is a flaky, savory pastry made with layers of phyllo dough and filled with meat, cheese, spinach, or potatoes. It’s a staple in Balkan households and a favorite street food.
Alternative to Try: For a modern twist, try a vegan burek filled with spiced mushrooms. This alternative caters to changing dietary preferences while preserving the essence of this beloved dish.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery (La Grange): Known for their traditional meat and cheese burek, Balkan Bakery also offers a vegan burek option that has become a hit among plant-based eaters.
2. Ajvar: The Balkan Condiment Hero
Traditional Option: Ajvar is a roasted red pepper spread often seasoned with garlic and eggplant. It’s a versatile condiment used as a dip, spread, or side dish.
Alternative to Try: In 2025, many Balkan-inspired eateries are experimenting with smoky ajvar varieties made with roasted poblano peppers or spicy ajvar infused with chili oil.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: Their imported ajvar comes in both mild and hot varieties, perfect for pairing with bread, meats, or crackers.
3. Rakija: The Spirit of the Balkans
Traditional Option: Rakija, a strong fruit brandy, is a cultural staple in the Balkans. It’s typically made from plums, but variations include apricots, grapes, and quince.
Alternative to Try: Rakija cocktails are taking over the Chicago bar scene. Try a plum rakija martini or an apricot rakija spritz for a contemporary twist on this classic drink.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: Offers a curated selection of imported rakija bottles, perfect for sipping or mixing into cocktails.
4. Kinder Cake: A Sweet Taste of Nostalgia
Traditional Option: Kinder cake is a layered dessert inspired by the famous Kinder chocolate. It’s a favorite among Balkan families for its rich chocolate and cream flavors.
Alternative to Try: In 2025, bakeries are experimenting with variations like white chocolate raspberry Kinder cake or a nut-free version.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: Their Kinder cake slices are made fresh daily, and they’ve recently introduced a nut-free version.
5. Cevapi: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Traditional Option: Cevapi are small, grilled sausages made from a mix of beef and lamb. They’re typically served with fresh bread, onions, and ajvar.
Alternative to Try: In 2025, cevapi made from different meat blends such as veal, pork and beef, or beef, pork and lamb all combined.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: With 6 different kinds of cevapi available for purchase, you will be sure to find your perfect meat blend!
6. Baklava: Layers of Sweet Perfection
Traditional Option: Baklava is a sweet pastry made of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey or syrup. It’s a dessert that’s celebrated across the Balkans and the Middle East.
Alternative to Try: Chocolate baklava and pistachio rosewater baklava are two modern variations that have captivated dessert lovers in Chicago.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: Their greek baklava is a customer favorite, and they’ve recently added a pistachio version to their menu.
7. Bajadera: The Praline Perfection
Traditional Option: Bajadera is a layered praline dessert made with nuts, chocolate, and a hint of rum. It’s a symbol of prosperity and is often gifted during celebrations.
Alternative to Try: In 2025, gourmet bajadera with flavors like salted caramel, espresso, and matcha are becoming a trend.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: Their classic bajadera pralines are a top seller, and they’ve recently introduced a afternoon pick-me-up combo, bajadera and double espresso at a great price!
8. Plazma Keks: The Balkan Biscuit
Traditional Option: Plazma keks is a beloved biscuit often used in desserts or enjoyed with coffee. It’s a nostalgic treat for anyone from the Balkans.
Alternative to Try: Plazma-inspired desserts like cakes and dessets are making waves in Chicago’s Balkan food scene.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: Offers Plazma keks by the box, as well as desserts like Plazma cake and Plazma truffle balls.
9. Zivotinjsko Carstvo Chocolates: A Childhood Favorite
Traditional Option: These animal-shaped chocolates are a nostalgic treat for many Balkan kids, often collected for their fun wrappers.
Alternative to Try: In 2025, artisanal chocolate makers are creating gourmet versions with higher-quality cocoa and unique fillings.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: Stocks imported Zivotinjsko Carstvo chocolates for those seeking a taste of childhood.
10. Rostiljska Kobasica: Grilled Sausage with a Kick
Traditional Option: Rostiljska kobasica is a spiced sausage grilled to perfection, often served with fresh bread and mustard.
Alternative to Try: In 2025, fusion flavors like jalapeño cheddar and sun-dried tomato basil are giving this traditional sausage a modern twist.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: Their rostiljska kobasica is a crowd favorite, and they are pairing it with wood fired lepinje, perfect for a summer grill out!
11. Fresh Juices: A Healthy Balkan Tradition
Traditional Option: Freshly squeezed juices, especially from fruits like pomegranate, orange, and apple, are a staple in Balkan households.
Alternative to Try: In 2025, cold-pressed juice blends with Balkan-inspired flavors, such as orange and lemon or apple, cucumber, kale, ginger, are trending.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: Offers a range of fresh juices, including a popular balkan detox blend, sunrise or minty kiss.
12. Crepes: Sweet and Savory Delights
Traditional Option: Balkan-style crepes, or palačinke, are thin pancakes filled with Nutella, jam, or cheese.
Alternative to Try: Gourmet crepes with unique fillings like pistachio cream, raspberry chocolate, or spinach and ricotta are elevating this classic dish.
Where to Find It in West Chicago:
Balkan Bakery: Their crepe menu includes traditional and modern options, with new additions like pistachio dream and raspberry chocolate.
Chicago’s Balkan food scene is thriving in 2025, offering both traditional dishes and innovative alternatives that cater to modern tastes. Whether you’re craving a classic burek or curious to try a plant-based cevapi, the city has something for everyone. Balkan Bakery in La Grange stands out as a must-visit destination, offering a perfect blend of authenticity and creativity.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for something unique, explore these Balkan food alternatives and immerse yourself in the rich flavors of the region—right here in West Chicago!
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