The Best Bakeries in Phoenix, Arizona | Eater Phoenix

"Tucked into a small strip mall on Bell Road, Balkan Bakery is a North Phoenix staple for Eastern European baked goods — and a perfect entry point for anyone unfamiliar. Run by Jasenko Osmic and family, the North Phoenix shop specializes in Bosnian-style pastries like burek — spiraled coils of homemade phyllo filled with ground beef, cheese, or spinach, baked until golden and crisp. Mornings bring still-warm kifli, glossy pretzels, and soft French-style rolls, along with sweets like cream puffs and layered keks torta when available. The short menu also includes housemade cevapi — snappy grilled sausages tucked into fresh bread — and a small selection of imported snacks and pantry staples. The space stays mellow and unhurried, often filled with regulars sipping coffee and catching up in Bosnian. It’s open Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and weekends from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., with early hours and limited seating that only add to the charm." - McConnell Quinn