By Laurie Perrone
I recently had the pleasure of catching up with Yesenia Durango and her sister Nataly Durango, the inspiring co-owners of Encanto Bakery & Bistro. Tucked away in a quaint little spot at 218-220 Kearny Avenue in Kearny, New Jersey, this dynamic duo is a powerful representation of Hispanic women entrepreneurs right here in our community.
Our visit began with an engaging conversation about their journey and the passion they bring to their business. Of course, no visit would be complete without a taste of their craftsmanship; I sampled their delectable version of one of my favorite desserts, the Tres Leches, along with a popular breakfast choice, the Pan Tres Quesos. Both were absolutely exceptional.
In the bustling landscape of Kearny, New Jersey, Encanto is more than just a restaurant; it is a cultural bridge, a sensory journey, and a testament to the power of tradition. For the Durango sisters, choosing this location was a strategic decision rooted in community spirit. Kearny Avenue serves as the town’s heartbeat—a place where diverse cultures converge and where the air is always thick with the promise of new experiences.
At the core of Encanto’s appeal is the authentic Colombian bakery. In Colombia, baking is an artform defined by warmth and comfort. The menu features staples like the beloved pasteles deguayaba (guava pastries), which perfectly encapsulate the Colombian palate.
These delicacies offer a masterclass in balance: a delicate, flaky puff pastry exterior that gives way to a sweet, rich guava filling, often complemented by the creamy saltiness of local cheese. For the owners, these aren’t just menu items; they are vessels of memory.
By bringing these recipes to Kearny, Encanto offers the community a meaningful piece of Colombian heritage that resonates far beyond the Latin population.
Universal flavors and hospitality
While Encanto serves as a “home away from home” for the local Colombian community, its mission is much broader. The restaurant seeks to engage the non-Latin community through the universal language of food. Colombian cuisine is a celebration of color and freshness, from vibrant tropical fruit juices to hearty, traditional plates. The owners believe that curiosity is the first step toward connection. By offering a space where hospitality is as important as the seasoning, Encanto transforms a simple meal into an exploration of culture.
Modern twists on lunchtime classics
Encanto also understands the need for innovation in a competitive food scene. Take, for
instance, their signature Avocado Croissant. While the traditional “sub” sandwich has long
been a staple of the American lunch hour, Encanto offers a more refined alternative.
This dish features a buttery, artisanal croissant filled with perfectly ripe avocado and premium ingredients, providing a lighter yet deeply flavorful experience. It is a perfect example of how the sisters honor their roots while catering to the modern diner’s desire for quality and freshness.
The meaning of encanto
The name “Encanto” translates to “charm” or “enchantment,” and it was chosen to reflect the
specific atmosphere the restaurant strives to maintain. From the aroma of fresh-baked bread that greets you at the door to the genuine smiles of the service team, every detail is designed to uplift the spirit.
The “charm” of the restaurant lies in its ability to make the world feel a little
smaller and a lot warmer. As Kearny continues to grow and evolve, Encanto stands as a shining example of how food can foster a sense of belonging and joy.
Follow Encanto Bakery & Bistro on Instagram @encantobakerybistro, or better yet stop by for a visit with some savory flavor goals in mind! They are conveniently open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, open Monday to Thursday day 8am – 8 pm; Friday to Sunday 8:00 am- 9:00 pm.
Editor’s note: Laurie Perrone is a self-published fiction writer, a freelance journalist, a blogger, a poet and a mental health advocate. You will find her works and social media at This Jersey Girl Interrupted.
