Hudson County is home to some of the most densely populated cities in the U.S. In fact, Hoboken, West New York, Union City, and Jersey City were all at the top of the list for population density {persons per square mile} in 2016. Finding serenity in busy cities can be difficult. Sidewalks are crowded with morning strollers, the stores are packed with patrons, and trains and buses overflow with commuters.
If you’re searching for a moment of calm amidst the madness, stop into Bakkal, a gourmet Turkish market in West New York {located at 6212 Park Avenue}. Behind a series of aisles stacked with treats and snacks, through a back door and up a few steps, is a secret tea garden. Tables and chairs fill the space, with flower pots and candles along railings and steps. String lights hang from the ceiling, and a tree grows in the middle of the yard, reaching through the top of a wooden structure built to shield customers from the rain and snow. Keep reading to learn more about this secret tea garden in West New York.
About the Bakery
Husband and wife owners Mujde Sahin and Unal Caglin have lived in West New York for over a decade and opened Bakkal this past fall to bring traditional Turkish favorites to the local community. In addition to packaged treats, you can also find freshly-baked goods, prepared on-site. Try a simit {traditional Turkish bagel}, borek {layers of dough with cheese}, or puaca {pastry with cheese, olives, and dill}. Enjoy these savory bites alongside traditional Turkish tea or coffee, served right to your table on a metal tray. If there’s something you can’t find, let them know — they’re constantly looking for other Turkish favorites they can add to the store to make it feel more like home to everyone who stops in.
See More: Things to Do in North Hudson County
About the Owners
Mudje Sahin and Unal Cagin opened Bakkal to share their Turkish culture with West New York. In addition to running the shop and tea garden, Mujde works in Manhattan as a wine master. She loves the idea of bringing people together over good food and drinks, and hopes to offer wine tastings and classes at Bakkal in the near future. Unal is the construction mastermind behind Bakkal and has a knack for constructing unique and interesting spaces. They work in tandem at Bakkal, sharing the responsibility of running a growing local business.
About the Space
Mujde and Unal have designed the backyard oasis so it can be enjoyed by customers all year long. In the colder months, half the space is enclosed and equipped with heaters. It’s the perfect place to watch the snow fall around you while staying warm over a cup of tea. In the spring and summer, the backyard opens up and is a great spot to gather with friends. Mujde loves dogs and welcomes pets of all kinds to the backyard, too {so definitely bring your four-legged friend along when you visit}.
Read More: Las Chicas: A Uruguayan Bakery in the Heart of Hudson County
If you’re looking for some place to host your next party or event, stop by the store or call to plan your next gathering in a truly unique outdoor retreat. They currently host local book clubs and gatherings year-round.
Have you been to this hidden gem in West New York? Comment below with your favorite Turkish treat to try at Bakkal!
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