Bazsalikomos Kert és Pékség
The Story of "Finding" the Perfect Place
Since 2019, Mariann Beh, the visionary behind Bazsalikomos Kert and Bakery, has been searching for the ideal location to hold her own workshops. One day, an advertisement appeared for a house awaiting demolition, and Mariann immediately fell in love with it. She saw the beauty in a place where others couldn’t. She blindly seized the property, and the rest is history.
The project, which started in 2021, was led by Csaba Tőrös. However, construction had to pause for nearly a year due to archaeological work, which delayed the planned opening.
“The bakery is located in the historic downtown of Kecskemét, 80 meters from the city market. That’s why the street originally had cobblestone paving: at the entrance and on the terrace, we also used cobblestones (which we were able to purchase in sufficient quantities from four different places). The house was built in the 1890s, and after a long search in the archives, we found the original designs for the elegant façade. The exciting energy of the house filled every inch of us from the very first moment. We bought the property in 2019, and alongside the main building, there were several dilapidated structures on the site, which we demolished. In place of the largest, decrepit building, a new wing was added: here, on the ground floor, you'll find the guest restrooms, the tea shop, the workshop room, staff changing rooms, and storage areas. Upstairs, there’s a small apartment and a spacious office,” says Mariann.
The sourdough breads are baked in a nearly 200-year-old house at the Bazsalikomos Kert bakery, which opened on June 3rd.
The bakery is housed in the nearly 200-year-old building. Thanks to the white walls, metro tiles, and olive-green windows and shutters, the aim was to create the best and most peaceful environment possible. From the bakery, you can directly enter the guest area, where the original beams are on display. The terrace was designed to maximize the space, so custom oak tables and benches were made for it.
“We’ve been searching for a small business space since the spring of 2019 where I could hold my workshops, but we just couldn’t find the right place. My favorite area in Kecskemét is Budai Street. In the spring, it turned out that one of the old houses was about to be demolished. A new, but street-compatible condominium would be built in its place in the fall, and a suitably sized commercial space could be created on the ground floor. The developer promised that as soon as we got the demolition permit, they would notify us to discuss the details. But they haven’t called yet, and we’ve walked through the street a few times recently; they haven’t started the demolition yet,” Mariann explains the search for the perfect location.
Teas, spices, and the irresistible smell of fresh bread.
Mariann became known for her love of tea and incredible professional knowledge, and it was no surprise that the location itself would be surrounded by edible spices. The garden is 87% edible and can be used in various ways, which not only reflects Mariann’s philosophy and life path but also serves as a beautiful example of how easy it is, with a little love and care, to create edible and usable decorations in your garden that support a more conscious lifestyle.
The location has expanded with more aromatic explosions. The enticing smell of bakery products and Herz coffee fills the space, making us feel at home from the very first moment and inviting us to relax and slow down. In addition to the bakery and beautiful garden, this place also houses Mariann's workshop space and a charming shop full of teas, honey, treats, and books. The store's latest pride is Mariann's second fairy tale book, Halmesék, illustrated by Henrietta Váradi.
Mariann’s full story about how she discovered and saved the 200-year-old house is attached.
Thus, Kecskemét has not only gained a perfect bistro but also a space that brings people together.
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM–5:30 PM, Saturday–Sunday: 8:00 AM–1:00 PM. On weekends, the famous Kecskemét market is a must-visit, so don’t miss it before or after your visit.
Instagram: @bazsalikomoskert
Website: bazsalikomoskert.hu
Mini Interview with Mariann:
Tell us about the beginnings and how your story started.
Most of our friends thought our idea was a bold move. But we just wanted to bring nature to the heart of downtown Kecskemét, along with fantastic baked goods and the best coffee.
We were thinking of a laid-back, unpretentious, natural place, where the garden blends with the building. The rest just followed naturally.
We designed the interior spaces ourselves. From an interior design perspective, there are probably details that could have been done better, but in the end, the spaces and details are completely authentic and reflect who we are.
What motivates you every day?
What motivates me every day? Continuing to develop the art of good living for the people of Kecskemét. Using the best ingredients, supporting my colleagues so they can bring out the best in themselves. I love seeing how our guests enjoy their time on our terrace with a matcha latte.
Let me know if you'd like any further adjustments!