Alon’s is a European-style market and bakery, opened on May 3, 1992, that has become integral part of the Morningside community. Originally, Alon’s was a 1,300-square-foot bakery that only served bread, coffee and pastries. Over time, the business evolved and introduced additions to the market.
Alon’s is owned and operated by its founder, Alon Balshan. Balshan immigrated to the United States from Israel with the goal of becoming a pastry chef. His business partner and former wife, Janine Balshan, said that Balshan has put in a lot of work to get where he is now.
“[Balshan] came here in 1985,” Janine Balshan said “He always knew he wanted to open his own place.That’s why he came to the United States. He first started working at Engleman’s Bakery. Then from there, he went to Murphy’s, a nice restaurant down the street, and became the head pastry chef. While working there, he saw this place back when it was a pizza place, and when it went up for sale he saw the opportunity.”
Sophomore Amalia Kaiman, a longtime morningside resident with Israeli history, said the market’s cultural influence sets it apart.
“The guy that runs Alon’s is Jewish and they brought that Israeli culture into Atlanta,” Kaiman said. “That is what makes it the unique place it is today. I think that European feel is what makes it really special. The bagels are prepared in an amazing Israeli way with a panini press. It is my favorite breakfast in Atlanta.”
Sophomore Elise Goran, who moved within walking distance of the market at age three, said Alon’s has shaped neighborhood interactions on a day to day basis.
“I think it impacts the community by being a place people can go for meals together,” Gordon said. “I remember going to Alon’s with friends and we would meet and walk there when I was ten. Sometimes, over the weekends, I go alone with my brother. We walk there together, get breakfast, and eat together.”
Kaiman said that one of the biggest attractions of Alon’s is the variety of products available.
“It is the go-to spot for anything and everything, cheese, dinner foods, pastries and olive oil,” Kaiman said. “It is one of my all-around places to go for last-minute needs for lunch, dinner or breakfast. It feels like a cozy little bakery that anyone can go to.”
Sophomore Julianna Richman, who lives near Alon’s, said that the market brings people together, and that she often relies on it for family events.
“Alon’s bakery is so versatile,” Richman said. “Every time we have someone over or throw a little party, we always get pastries and desserts from Alon’s because we know we can always count on them to be good. Almost every time we see people, or catch up with someone that we don’t get to see often, Alon’s cookies are on the table.”
Similarly, Zoe Glade, an Atlanta resident, believes that Alon’s is perfect for every occasion.
“Alons has the best cookies in Atlanta,” Glade said. “Anytime I go to a friend’s house I go to Alon’s, get a pound of their best cookies, which includes the chocolate pecan and the Krakovski’s and bring them. No matter the occasion, Alon’s is consistent and a huge hit.”
For decades, Alon’s has continued to serve its community. Janine Balshan said visitors of the market often return, even those who came around the time of its opening.
“The people that were supporting us during our beginning days were young and loved it,” Janine Balshan said. “Now we have our usuals who have been coming here for as long as it has been open. They might be in walkers now but they still love our food.”
