Located in the lush suburb of Claremont and the bustling hub of District Six, Lebanese Bakery has become a cherished spot for Middle Eastern cuisine lovers in Cape Town. Co-owned by the humble and talented Clara Bubenzer and her business partner Galiep, this restaurant offers an authentic taste of Lebanon, delighting locals and visitors alike. Over a delightful cup of hibiscus and rose tea, Clara shared insights into the restaurant’s offerings and her passion for Lebanese cuisine.

What are the most popular traditional Lebanese dishes you serve at your bakery, and what makes them special? Could you share the stories behind some of these signature dishes?

Clara explained that their menu features a variety of traditional Lebanese dishes, each crafted with care and authenticity. Among the most popular are their dips and sauces, which have grown from an initial offering of three to a diverse selection. This expansion reflects their commitment to providing a rich culinary experience. Clara’s connection with her Syrian supplier, Reem, played a crucial role in perfecting these recipes. Reem spent days with Clara, sharing her knowledge and techniques, which Clara then enriched with her own touches. This collaboration has led to dishes that are not only authentic but also infused with Clara’s personal flair.

As the owner, what are your personal favourite Lebanese dishes and why? Do you have any special memories or stories associated with these dishes?

Clara has a particular fondness for the doner wraps and sandwiches, which she feels epitomise the authenticity of Lebanese street food. She recounted her time in Egypt, where the roasting of sesame seeds differed significantly from South Africa, highlighting the nuances in flavour and technique. These experiences have shaped her approach to crafting dishes with authenticity and love.

How do you source authentic Lebanese ingredients in Cape Town, and what challenges do you face in maintaining the quality and authenticity of these ingredients?

Sourcing authentic ingredients is a priority for Lebanese Bakery, albeit a challenging one. Clara is adamant about not compromising on quality, even if it means paying a bit more. Their tahini, for example, is sourced from a high-quality supplier to ensure its authenticity. While some ingredients are difficult and expensive to procure, Clara believes it is worth the effort to maintain the true flavours of Lebanon. The restaurant prides itself on making all products in-house and supports local suppliers wherever possible, which not only aids in authenticity but also in sustainability.

How do you preserve the culinary heritage of Lebanon in your bakery? Are there any particular recipes or techniques passed down through generations that you are proud to showcase?

Preserving Lebanese culinary heritage is at the core of Lebanese Bakery’s mission. Clara is proud to showcase recipes and techniques passed down through generations, which she learned from Reem. This dedication to tradition is evident in every dish, from the meticulously crafted dips to the richly flavoured wraps. Clara’s emphasis on consistency ensures that each visit to the bakery offers the same high-quality experience, making it a reliable destination for those seeking authentic Lebanese cuisine.

How do you introduce and educate your customers about Lebanese cuisine and its rich culinary traditions? Are there any dishes you find particularly surprising or exciting for people trying Lebanese food for the first time?

Clara is passionate about educating her customers on the rich traditions of Lebanese cuisine. She is currently developing an in-depth training manual for her staff and believes in the importance of tasting and loving the food they sell. This hands-on approach allows her team to share their enthusiasm and knowledge with customers, making each visit to the bakery an educational experience. Clara finds that many Middle Eastern clients, who are familiar with the cuisine, are drawn to their offerings, which is a testament to their authenticity. For first-time visitors, the doner wraps and sandwiches often come as a delightful surprise, providing a true taste of Lebanese street food.

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Clara and Galiep have successfully established two thriving branches of Lebanese Bakery. Their flagship store in Claremont and the new branch in District Six both serve as beacons of Lebanese culture and cuisine in Cape Town. Looking ahead, their focus is on growing the District Six store’s customer base, breaking into the catering sector and streamlining production to continue delivering the exceptional quality that has become their hallmark.

Lebanese Bakery stands as a testament to Clara’s belief in consistency, quality, and the power of authentic culinary traditions. Whether you are a long-time fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or a curious newcomer, a visit to Lebanese Bakery promises delicious food at an affordable price.