Mediterranean-style bakery holds grand opening in Menands

MENANDS, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Tuscan Bakery held its grand opening in Menands on Sunday. The European- and Mediterranean-style bakery is located in Mid-City Plaza.

According to owner Nurettin Ulukaya, Tuscan Bakery offers several freshly-made Mediterranean and European pastries and baked goods, such as baklava, tahini rolls, spinach and cheese börek and more. The shop is affiliated with Tuscan Oven, located in the same plaza, which offers more savory dishes.

“There’s a unique charm and warmth in Mediterranean and European cuisine — the kind of food that brings people together,” Ulukaya, who is originally from eastern Turkey, told NEWS10. “We saw an opportunity to introduce these flavors to Menands, which we felt was missing a place where people could experience those tastes in a truly authentic way.”

Ulukaya said that the idea for Tuscan Bakery began to take shape in early 2024, with construction beginning later that year. The bakery softly opened its doors this year on February 25.

“We have had a steady stream of curious and supportive customers, many of whom have returned multiple times,” Ulukaya said. “It’s been heartwarming to see such strong community interest.”

Moving forward, the bakery plans to soon expand their menu to offer custom cakes and seasonal specialties, as well as launch hands-on experiences like Turkish coffee tastings and baking workshops. Ulukaya, who is Kurdish, said that being able to serve his culture’s traditional foods has been “deeply meaningful” and hopes it inspires customers to try more.

“It’s not just about sharing food — it’s about sharing a part of my culture and my roots,” Ulukaya said. “Whether it’s a customer’s first time tasting something like baklava or someone reconnecting with the flavors of home, we want everyone to feel a sense of comfort and discovery.”

Tuscan Bakery is located at 100 Broadway in Menands. It is open from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays.