Bojan’s Café Serving Up Fresh Bakes and Coffees
Story by Susan Pretty, Photos by Sidney Ulakovic
When asked how he came to own a downtown coffee shop, Jerry Decicco said he “manifested it.” While working as a stylist at Evoke Salon + Spa across the street, he kept a keen eye on this curated corner of Cumberland, and it all came together like magic. It wasn’t always a Cinderella story, however. Decicco—who, like his coffee, is a special blend of energy and robustness—was planning on opening a similar shop in a different downtown location, but COVID-19 squashed those dreams. It was only a matter of time before a grander scheme started to form.
The wide-open, airy space is a stunner. Plenty of windows abound for great natural light, as well as people-watching while enjoying a latte. The wooden accents and Decicco’s bright, fresh, beautiful decor give the space a tropical feel, and this family business exudes comfort, replete with an array of books and a comfy fireplace.
Butter pecan cappuccino
The café has the business crowd covered with a tasteful selection of coffee, tea, specialty coffees, and hot chocolate. Decicco’s sister Mary Lou (affectionately called Lou Lou by her little brother) staffs the counter and makes the best butter tarts one has ever tried. In fact, the café is a family affair, with other siblings and relatives pitching in with whatever is needed. (That includes Mama Decicco as well!)
Let’s talk menu! Customers can expect a wide array of fresh baked goods (love those lemon crinkle cookies!), daily specials, soups, sandwiches (try the Italian sub with chipotle aioli), and grilled items made to order. And don’t forget those leisurely weekend breakfasts to get your day started right. All cooking and baking is done in-house; in fact, Decicco had to excuse himself briefly from our chat to pull out something savoury and flakey from the oven (the egg spinach pie looks a treat indeed). There’s also the grab-and-go fridge, packed to the brim with salads, wraps, sammies—even a little charcuterie board. The possibilities are endless, and the only problem is deciding on what to choose. Pick up something tasty for the family for dinner—there’s something for everyone here.
Eggnog dalgona iced coffee and house baking
Beautifully decorated for the holiday season, this corner hotspot has a metropolitan feel. “We opened up Friday evenings to local artists who can showcase their work here in-store,” Decicco says. “It gives a sense of community and friendship and helps their work to be seen.” Look for Christmas baskets at various price points to make gift-giving that much easier.
The New Year will bring many exciting events, one being a name change: Café Ora, which means “coffee hour.” The staff look forward to welcoming you to their warm and inviting café where every hour is “coffee hour.”
Bojan’s Café is located at 30 Cumberland Street South. Search Bojan’s Café on Facebook for more info.
