The Passion Behind BaklavaStory
Tolgay Karabulut, the founder of BaklavaStory in San Francisco, shares his journey of running a bakery focused solely on baklava over the past five years. Despite his passion, he faces financial challenges that make him reassess his future.
A Leap of Faith
Originally from Turkey, Tolgay moved to the United States in 2005, working as a lifeguard in New Jersey. His entrepreneurial spirit manifested in various businesses before he finally decided to pursue his love for food, leading to the establishment of BaklavaStory. He launched the bakery with a significant investment of around $300,000, despite skepticism about the demand for baklava in San Francisco.
A Unique Bakery Operation
Tolgay’s bakery is unique in its singular focus on baklava, ensuring freshness and quality. His daily routine starts early, with the team preparing fresh fillings and assembling trays. The pastries are baked frequently to keep up with customer demand, showcasing a meticulous approach to craftsmanship.
Challenges in a Costly Market
Running a bakery in San Francisco presents substantial financial pressure. Labor costs are high, and despite his hard work, Tolgay reported making only $40,000 last year. He shares a small apartment and feels the strain of rising living costs exacerbated by the tech boom.
Customer Connections
Despite the challenges, Tolgay finds joy in customer interactions. Positive feedback about his baklava fuels his passion, reminding him why he started this journey. His dedication to quality and personalization, even training customers on how to enjoy the pastry, illustrates his commitment to his craft.
Future Aspirations
Tolgay dreams of expanding his business and hopes that with growth, he can achieve a more comfortable lifestyle. For now, he focuses on perfecting his baklava and cherishes the fulfillment it brings him and his customers.
