Serving Tradition: Food Presented on Porcelain Sets from Our Mothers

There are many stories about restaurants and cafes in Ohrid, but the story of Fort is truly unique. We spent the last days of June exploring the hills around Ohrid, where beautiful hospitality spots offer an exceptional view of the lake. Just a few steps from Samuil’s Fortress is Fort — a story that began 8 years ago. We spoke with the owner, Violeta Cepenkovska, about the story and the origins of this place.

Kajak.mk: Where did the idea to start such a story come from?
Violeta: The idea came quite by chance. Somewhere in the middle of the season, we decided to open a small spot for a break for foreign tourists who mostly visited Ohrid in organized groups. Of course, there were also individual tourists who, due to the location right at the entrance of the fortress, wanted to stop and rest, but also because of the view and the desire to gaze longer at the ramparts surrounding the fortress. There was nothing suitable for rest at this location, so the “Fort” café was born. To our great satisfaction, foreign tourists who have visited once come back again. Most likely, the place stayed deeply in their memory—and there’s a reason for that. The peace, tranquility, view, hospitality, and kindness of the staff are real facts. Some of the staff have been here from the very beginning and are like part of our family privately, which gives this place great value.

Kajak.mk: How did the story of “Fort” grow?
Violeta: The story spread among guests who recommended it to their close ones, and among travel agencies that included it in their programs as a place for a short break. From a small mini-cafeteria, it grew into what it is today. The interior is like a small gallery, an antique shop, a museum of our family. Around the building, there are arranged terraces that were previously neglected and spoiled the space in front of the fortress. Now, it is a large flower garden offering the most beautiful view of the fortress.

As the story grew, so did the demand and the offer. For tourists and guests who came in small groups of 4 to 8 people wanting to enjoy Macedonian food here, we started organizing intimate lunches and dinners. Foreigners love to enjoy perfectly flavored food served in small portions. We respected that moment. For confirmed guests, we organize the “Ohrid table” experience.

Kajak.mk: What kind of story does “Fort” create?
Violeta: Considering the whole story, tradition, family values, and customs, we decided to tell the urban story of Ohrid in a different, warmer, more authentic, and unique way. This way, we present Ohrid to our guests in a different light—Ohrid as it truly is. Because Ohrid is not just beaches and fairs; Ohrid is tradition, culture, wealth, spirit, and love… Ohrid deserves to rise above the kitsch produced by mass tourism and offer an authentic story it truly deserves. And that story doesn’t need to be invented—it’s a heritage we have inherited from our families.

Our guests are mostly foreigners who know how to enjoy in a special way—away from crowds and noise, respecting tradition, and wanting to experience Ohrid’s customs from a different perspective. They are quiet, savoring every moment so that it stays deeply in their memories as a beautiful souvenir from Ohrid.

Of course, we also have local guests who feel like our place is their own. On the outdoor open terraces, they relax in their own way—whether enjoying the view of the lake or the fortress, surrounded by the scent of flowers and the broad shadows of old walnut trees. Inside, they enjoy our family story and tradition in a relaxed atmosphere, a place and time just for them. Our guests have included ambassadors, presidents, and ordinary people who want to enjoy, respect, and experience a different Ohrid story. We are here for everyone; all are welcome.

Kajak.mk: What makes you unique?
Violeta: For a small number of guests, always with prior notice and reservation, the food and drinks are served in crystal glasses, with silver cutlery, crystal serving dishes, and porcelain coffee cups that are a personal collection of our mothers—these are items you simply can’t buy anywhere today.

The first welcome is with homemade jam and water. On every table, there is always a crystal bowl with roasted chickpeas mixed with dried grapes and walnuts from our yard. Food is served in small portions, in appropriate dishes and with proper utensils, along with homemade cookies called “vizitarski,” and coffee for “until we meet again.” That’s the Ohrid table. We also offer additional options—mezze platters like main dishes—but those are customized depending on the tourists.