From a Childhood Dream to a Dubai Sensation
Kameel Rasyid’s love for baking began in the heart of his family's kitchen in Bandung, West Java. Growing up, his fondest memories were not of elaborate feasts but of simpler, more intimate moments spent baking with his mother. The kitchen was a place filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of their signature steamed brownies. Rasyid vividly recalls mornings that turned into nights as they broke crate after crate of eggs, completely absorbed in the joy of creating something delicious.
“We’d bake from morning until night,” Rasyid reminisces. “Those were not just fun times but profoundly memorable moments that bring tears to my eyes. That’s where my passion for baking was truly born.”
Fast forward to today, and Rasyid is the mastermind behind bkry, Dubai’s newest artisanal bakery sensation. Nestled in the vibrant Alserkal Avenue, bkry has become a social media darling, known for its mouth-watering pastries and long lines of eager customers. The bakery’s signature scent of freshly baked bread and the sight of bakers working in an open kitchen are now iconic in Dubai’s bustling food scene.
The Journey to bkry: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Rasyid’s journey to opening bkry wasn’t straightforward. From his early days learning traditional recipes with his mother to attending baking school and competing in culinary contests, each step was a building block toward his dream of creating his own bakery.
“Where I come from, life is rich in culture and tradition,” Rasyid explains. “That deep connection between food and family laid the foundation for what would eventually become bkry.”
After honing his skills in prestigious kitchens and international competitions, Rasyid found himself yearning for more creative freedom. He wanted to break away from conventional roles and have the autonomy to experiment with ingredients and techniques. This drive for innovation, combined with a deep respect for tradition, led to the founding of bkry.
“I wanted to create a place where I could control every aspect of the process,” he shares. “From sourcing the best, environmentally friendly ingredients to using equipment that elevates the baking process, I wanted everything to be intentional.”
Establishing bkry in Dubai’s Competitive Food Scene
Launching a bakery in Dubai, a city known for its high-powered food scene, presented its own set of challenges. Transitioning from a chef to a business owner required Rasyid to juggle not only creative tasks but also the complexities of business management.
“In the beginning, my time was consumed by perfecting recipes and experimenting with authentic ingredients,” he says. “But being so immersed in the kitchen made it challenging to oversee other essential aspects of the business.”
Managing bkry’s operations meant mastering budgeting, financial planning, human resources, and marketing. Rasyid had to build a strong team and learn to delegate effectively, ensuring that every aspect of the bakery met his high standards.
“This balance between creativity and management has been incredibly rewarding,” he reflects. “It’s highlighted the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and continuous learning.”
A Bakery That Pushes Boundaries
Since its launch in June 2024, bkry has taken Dubai by storm. The bakery’s focus on quality, innovation, and community has led to weekday lines and a significant social media buzz. Signature treats like the pecan salted caramel croissant and their reimagined cinnamon roll became instant hits, beloved for their rich flavors and artisanal craftsmanship.
However, getting bkry off the ground was no small feat. The team conducted extensive market research to identify gaps in Dubai’s F&B landscape, ultimately choosing Alserkal Avenue for its vibrant arts and culture scene.
“We found that while Dubai’s food scene was diverse, there wasn’t a dedicated space for quality, artisanal baked goods,” Rasyid notes. “That gap was both our challenge and our opportunity.”
Crafting a Space of Transparency and Authenticity
Bkry’s commitment to authenticity is not only reflected in its menu but also in its design. The bakery’s Scandinavian-inspired space is all about transparency and connection, with large glass windows allowing customers to watch the baking process in real-time.
“We wanted a space that feels as honest and straightforward as our baking,” Rasyid explains. “From the outset, our products often have an organic, uneven quality due to the natural ingredients we use.”
This design philosophy extends to bkry’s menu as well. For instance, the beloved cinnamon roll starts with a brioche dough enriched with rye flour, adding a nutty depth to its texture. The team uses brown butter for a rich, caramelized flavor and a custom spice blend that elevates the classic cinnamon taste.
“Our approach to fermentation also plays a crucial role,” Rasyid adds. “By experimenting with different fermentation times, we achieve flavors that go beyond the classic recipes.”
The Power of Community and Social Media
Social media has played a crucial role in bkry’s rapid rise to fame. The bakery’s Instagram-friendly pastries and open kitchen concept have captured the hearts of Dubai’s food lovers, who actively share their experiences online.
“We owe so much to the community for their love and support on social media,” Rasyid says. “Their engagement keeps us motivated to keep raising the bar.”
A major highlight for bkry was an unexpected visit from HH Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a testament to the bakery’s growing influence in Dubai.
Sustainability at the Core
Bkry is committed to sustainability, from sourcing high-quality ingredients to implementing zero-waste practices. They prioritize suppliers who adhere to ethical and sustainable farming practices. For instance, they use flour from Wildfarmed Flour, known for its regenerative farming methods, and cacao beans from Kokoa Kamili, supporting fair prices for farmers.
“Balancing high-quality ingredients with accessible prices is challenging, but it’s a commitment we stand by,” Rasyid explains. “We negotiate with suppliers to offer the best products without compromising on quality.”
Building a Community of Baking Enthusiasts
Looking ahead, Rasyid has plans to expand bkry’s footprint across Dubai and beyond. There are also exciting plans to launch masterclasses, allowing customers to learn the art of baking, from traditional bread-making to crafting intricate pastries.
“We want to create a community space where knowledge and enthusiasm for baking can thrive,” he shares. “These classes will help us engage with our customers on a deeper level, fostering a love for the craft.”
Collaboration is another key focus for bkry, with plans to partner with other businesses in Alserkal Avenue. These partnerships will include joint events and cross-promotions, aimed at creating a vibrant, interconnected community.
Expanding Horizons: The Future of bkry
As bkry continues to grow, Rasyid is also venturing into new territories, with plans for a bean-to-bar chocolate shop. This new endeavor will explore single-origin chocolates, offering customers a deeper understanding of the craft behind each product.
“We’re excited about what the future holds,” Rasyid says. “But no matter how much we grow, we’ll always stay true to the principles that have guided us from the start: Quality, innovation, and a deep respect for the art of baking.”
Bkry’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and community. With its unique blend of tradition and innovation, bkry is set to become a lasting fixture in Dubai’s culinary landscape, one that continues to push boundaries while staying true to its roots.
360 Agency Middle East is your trusted partner in navigating the Middle Eastern hospitality job market.
For Job Seekers: Visit https://www.360agency.me/jobseekers to explore exciting career opportunities and access personalized career guidance.
For Employers: Visit https://www.360agency.me/employers-page to learn how 360 Agency can help you build a high-performing team that delivers exceptional guest experiences.
The Middle East is calling – embark on your hospitality career journey today!
For job inquiries, contact our WhatsApp Onboarding number here (+971 58 550 0125) or through Email: apply@360agency.me
Commenti