European Flavor Food From The Balkans A Hit In Reynoldsburg by Sarah Ferguson testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Balkan region. This family-owned gem, founded by brothers Stephan and Nick Nikolovski alongside their father, Kire Nikolovski, has carved out a unique niche in the local food scene, offering a savory slice of Eastern Europe’s diverse flavors. The store’s inception is as heartwarming as Simply Balkan Market stands as a vibrant its offerings. Kire, who immigrated to the U.S. in the mid-1980s, began his American journey working at a Hungarian butcher shop. Driven by a lifelong dream to open his own deli, Kire's vision blossomed into Simply Balkan, fulfilling his aspirations with the support of his family. The Nikolovski family’s connection to their Macedonian roots is deeply intertwined with their business. When the family relocated to central Ohio in 2004, Stephan’s commitment to maintaining ties to Balkan flavors meant making regular trips back to New Jersey, where he sourced products from Balkan markets. The growing demand for these specialty items soon led to the opening of their own store, strategically situated on the western edge of Reynoldsburg to serve the local community. At Simply Balkan Market, the essence of Balkan cuisine comes alive through a remarkable selection of house-made and imported products. The Nikolovski family takes pride in their in-house production of sausages, bacon and ribs, highlighted by their homemade Cevapi—a beloved Balkan sausage made from a blend of finely ground meats and spices. Another standout is their Burek, a savory pastry bursting with fillings like cheese, meat, or spinach.The store’s dedication to quality is Top and right, Kire Nokolovski prepares his specialty dish. Bottom, shelves of European delicacies. evident in its approach to fresh items. Stephan and his family personally travel to distributors to handpick the freshest and highest-quality offerings, ensuring that every product meets their exacting standards. This handson approach extends to their selection of sweets, which are consistently popular among customers. The inhouse baklava and tulumba (a fried dough drenched in vanilla simple syrup) are perennial favorites, while imported Milka chocolates and Palmza biscuits add to the southeastern European flavor. One of Simply Balkan Market’s standout features is its fresh olives, available for purchase by the pound. Unlike prepackaged varieties, these olives are sold in a manner reminiscent of small markets in the Balkans, allowing customers to experience a traditional shopping experience. Additionally, the store offers a variety of pickled vegetables, feta cheese, teas and coffees that are native to the Balkan region, providing a comprehensive taste of the area’s diverse culinary landscape. A particular customer favorite is the Ajvar, a roasted red pepper spread that epitomizes Balkan flavor with its smoky, savory profile. Simply Balkan offers multiple brands of this specialty spread, ensuring that authentic Balkan food and further connect with the community with region’s rich culinary offerings during the Macedonian Festival. This festival is held annually at the St. Mary’s Macedonian Orthodox Church in Reynoldsburg during the fall. Looking ahead, Stephan is on customer feedback. The family’s commitment to listening to their patrons and adapting to their needs underscores their dedication to providing an authentic and satisfying shopping experience. Simply Balkan Market isn’t just patrons can find the perfect match for their tastes. Simply Balkan Market is also able to showcase the store’s Reynoldsburg Magazine • Fall/Winter 2024 www.reynoldsburgmagazine.com a store, it’s a celebration of Balkan heritage, a haven for those seeking the familiar flavors of their homeland and a welcoming space for anyone eager to explore the rich, diverse cuisine of Eastern Europe. Through their hard work and passion, the Nikolovski family has created a place where tradition and quality shine brightly, offering a genuine taste of the Balkans in the heart of Ohio. 7 enthusiastic about expanding the store’s offerings with plans to introduce more fresh items based
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