Midland’s historic Ashman Circle welcomed a new addition to its community Jan. 18, with the grand opening of
Chef Sergey’s bakery.
The bakery quickly garnered overwhelming support from residents eager to try its authentic European pastries, breads, and specialty coffee.
Located at 136 Ashman Circle, the bakery introduces a taste of Europe to Midland. Its menu includes a variety of fresh-baked breads, croissants, pastries, and specialty coffee.
“We've had amazing traffic flow ever since opening,” bakery manager Zoe Ker says. “(We’re) seeing so many beautiful faces and wonderful smiles coming through, eager to try all sorts of our new baked goods made fresh every morning.”
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Mikaila BluewBarista Ryan Hanzek restocking a Pavlova into the display cases at Chef Sergey’s BakeryGuests can also choose from a selection of hand-picked teas and lunch options, making the bakery a cozy spot for any time of day. The business was created by the dream of two couples who shared a passion for authentic European baked goods that made Midland their home two years ago.
Chef Sergey’s bakery was brought to life by Sergey and Christina Pokanevych, who previously owned restaurants in their hometown of Odesa, Ukraine. The couple, along with their close friends and business partners, Maga Miiakiev and Natasha Lakovela, fled their native country due to the ongoing war and arrived in Midland as refugees. They now find themselves not only adjusting to a new life but also sharing a piece of their heritage with their new community.
With the help of generous donations from the community, many of which are proudly displayed on the front wall of the bakery, their dream of opening became a reality. Since their grand opening Chef Sergey’s has built a community not only in Midland, but across Michigan.
“They are just such passionate individuals for what they do, and they really put the heart and style of European cuisine into every single thing that they make,” Ker says.
In addition to offering European pastries that aren't readily available elsewhere, Chef Sergey’s focuses on creating healthier options for customers. A standout feature of the menu is the use of sourdough as a base for many of their baked goods.
This sourdough is designed to be "gut-friendly," offering health-conscious options while maintaining a balance of flavor.
“We have a slower fermentation process so our bread will take typically three to four days to make,” head chef Zachary Hutcheson says. “We’re slowing down the process so there is less gluten in the bread, it's easier on the stomach, it's really good for your microbiome and your gut.”
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Mikaila BluewThe Chocolate Croissants displayed in the cases at Chef Sergey’s BakeryThough the bakery’s offerings feature a sourdough base, the emphasis is not on an overly sour taste. Instead, the flavor profile highlights the sweetness of the pastries while the sourdough contributes to a healthier, more complex texture.
The use of sourdough, which has gained popularity for its probiotic and digestive benefits, is part of a larger trend toward more health-conscious eating habits.
The bakery’s offerings also include a selection of artisanal breads. Customers can enjoy freshly baked loaves, as well as lighter options like croissants and Danishes.
A key element of Chef Sergey’s success is its carefully curated coffee selection. The business sources beans from small-scale roasters, ensuring each cup is as fresh and flavorful as possible.
“There's no need to add syrups, no need to add any of these additives that you are familiar with for the common orders,” Ker says. “I always recommend that people try the coffee first before adding anything to it, and it's always so cool to see everyone's eyes light up.”
The goal of Chef Sergey’s is to create a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere for customers, whether they’re stopping in for a quick coffee break or enjoying an afternoon with friends.
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Mikaila BluewRegular customers Nan Spadacene and Karen Minton enjoying food at Chef Sergey’s BakerySince opening, Chef Sergey’s has quickly become a beloved spot in Midland, with nonstop excitement as locals and travelers stop by to show their support and sample the baked goods. The business not only offered something new to the local food scene but also contributed to Midland’s growing reputation as a welcoming and diverse community.
“I just say step out of your boundary,” local Nan Spadacene says. “Everyone's so used to driving down the same road, looking at the same things. They don't even know that there's beautiful things off the road, off the beaten path, and this is one of them.”
As the bakery continues to grow, the team plans to create a space where people can gather, relax, and experience the resilience, passion, and community spirit that brought Chef Sergey’s into existence.