FOOD:German Bakery reopens after 3 years

That empty corner in Koregaon Park, that once defined fun and energy, will now see the light of day soon.

The German Bakery has partially opened its doors to Pune, thus giving its patrons a reason to smile. A symbol of resilience, its reopening, which comes almost three years after it was ripped apart by a bomb blast, shows that the city will not bow down to cowardice. On the first day, the owners distributed free cakes and muffins for the patrons. Owners Smita Kharose and her daughter Snehal are all smiles. "I would like to tell people who have been waiting for the bakery to re-open that we are as happy as they are. It's only due to the support of our well-wishers that we could conquer all the obstacles," says Snehal. It will take around 15-20 days for the bakery to be fully functional. Although the decor and the menu will be much the same with a few new additions, Snehal says that they will up the security. "We are using security measures to ensure safety. We are determined to not be affected by those who believe in spreading terror," she says.

The German Bakery is located near the Jewish Chabad House and the Osho International Meditation Resort in Koregaon Park. The place was destroyed in a blast which occured on February 13, 2010 killing 17 and leaving several injured. Situated in Koregaon Park, the place was a popular hangout for locals and tourists.

Pooja Chopra, actor-model
I am extremely delighted that finally German Bakery has re-opened. But I do feel that three years is a long time and wished it was done earlier. We needed to bounce back and show our resilience, that we have a positive spirit. I have some wonderful memories and the blast in 2010 was shocking. I reached out to my close friends in Wadia College and we spoke about how the victims could have been any one of us. But I am glad we will see German Bakery again. We need to celebrate and I will plan a trip to Pune soon to grab my usual cold coffee. I will definitely miss the old place which has so many lovely memories. But then my attachment with German Bakery will always be there. Today I will reach out to my old friends and we will celebrate and cut a cake on behalf of the bakery. Cheers to Pune!

Gauhar Khan, actor-model
Post our morning classes at Wadia College, the first thing my friends and I would do is go to German Bakery. I am happy that it is reopening. I love the variety of breads and cakes there. The place used to open up pretty early and it was one of the best hangout spots in Koregaon Park in the morning. I wish the place all the best for a new beginning.

Viraf Phiroz, TV actor
From the wooden furniture to the breakfast which they would serve along with fresh juices, I miss everything about German Bakery. This is one place which I used to visit during my growing up years. The re-emergence of this place not only brings back old memories, but also emphasises the fact that India is fighting back terror. 

Aamir Ali, TV actor
I remember visiting German Bakery every time I would be in Pune. This is one place which Mumbaikars would always recommend. I am glad to hear about the revival of this place and I am looking forward to my next Pune visit so that I can go there. I used to particularly like the breakfast at GB.

Luke Kenny, actor
In the past, whenever I visited Pune, stopping by the German Bakery was a must. Most importantly, it had a free spirited bohemian kind of feel. When I visit the city next, I shall visit it.

Manjari Phadnis, actor
I am glad that the German Bakery is re-opening and surely will visit it sometime. I wasn't a regular visitor, but hanging out with friends always made it a special experience.

Hanif Hilal, actor
German Bakery was one of the most popular hangouts in the city. It was like a landmark point. If one had to guide someone who didn't know Pune, then GB was the place to mention and take them to. I'm sure the place will rework its charm. People will always want to revisit a place to rekindle memories.

Nachiket Barve, fashion designer
As a kid, after a walk at the Osho ashram, I would go for a li'l treat at the German Bakery. I am glad it is re-opening. I think it's a symbol of resilience and shows that one should not bow down to cowardice.

Anjali Patil, actor
I had studied in Pune. During my college days, the German Bakery used to be my best hideout place. I used to go there and sit for hours sipping on coffee. The cakes and muffins from GB were also yummy.

Raqesh Vashisth, TV actor
I used to love binging on the yummy ginger carrot cake. Cold coffee was another favourite. The sandwiches served had a unique taste and were quite fresh and nutritious. I am really excited to visit the bakery soon.

Popular delicacies
- Apple Strudel
- Ginger carrot cake
- Cold coffee
- Cupcakes