Meet The Team

Tanja Jeftenic's journey is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit, creative vision, and unwavering dedication to the art of hospitality. Armed with a degree in marketing, Tanja embarked on a path that would lead her from the world of marketing to the vibrant realm of hospitality.

However, Tanja's passion for hospitality was ignited long before her formal education began. At the tender age of 14, she embarked on an internship at the prestigious Atlantic Hotel in Hamburg, Germany where she immersed herself in the dynamic environment of the kitchen. This early exposure to the industry sparked Tanja's love for the culinary arts and laid the groundwork. 

This early exposure to the industry left a lasting impression on Tanja, shaping her approach to hospitality and instilling in her a deep appreciation for the importance of quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. It was during this formative experience that Tanja discovered her love for working with people and hosting events, setting her on a path that would ultimately lead to the founding of Astoria Cafe and Bakery.

Today, as the owner of Astoria, Tanja draws upon her diverse background and hands-on experience to create a welcoming space where guests can not only enjoy delicious food but also feel a sense of belonging and connection.

Born and raised in a close-knit family, Suzi discovered her love for cooking at a very young age while helping her grandmother in the kitchen. From rolling out dough for homemade bread to stirring pots of simmering stews, Suzi absorbed the flavors and techniques of her Balkan heritage with gusto.

Despite her natural culinary prowess, Suzi pursued a different path academically, earning a degree in engineering. Yet, her heart always remained in the kitchen, where she found solace and joy in the art of cooking. While her engineering career provided stability and intellectual challenges, Suzi's true passion lay in the creative realm of food.

 

In 2017, Suzi decided to follow her heart and, together with her daughter Tanja, embarked on a new adventure by opening Astoria Cafe and Bakery in Chicago. Drawing upon her engineering background, Suzi approached cooking with precision and innovation, experimenting with flavors and techniques to create unique and unforgettable dishes.

 

Suzi's early experiences in the kitchen with her grandmother served as the foundation for Astoria's menu, which showcases a blend of traditional Balkan recipes and inventive culinary creations. From delicate pastries to savory delights, every dish reflects Suzi's dedication to quality and authenticity.

Despite her transition from engineering to the culinary world, Suzi's analytical mindset remains a driving force behind Astoria's success. She approaches cooking with the same meticulous attention to detail and problem-solving skills that she honed as an engineer, resulting in dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Today, Suzi continues to inspire and delight patrons at Astoria Cafe and Bakery with her innovative approach to cooking and her unwavering commitment to quality. Her journey from engineering to culinary excellence is a testament to the transformative power of following one's passion and embracing one's heritage.