Besides old-world charm giving way to new look, items popular for years may also be scratched from menu

The much awaited reopening of German Bakery will leave many disappointed. The reason? Apart from a completely contemporary interior, the popular haunt will not be dishing out the famous apple strudel and muffins that the place was known for.

New management
The owners have decided to change the management and outsource it to a local businessman. Insiders confirmed that the management of the bakery, which is scheduled to reopen in November, has been given to two people named Wilson Murthy and Kalyan Bafale.

"I have not signed the documents yet, but since I was in charge of the marketing department (at the bakery), owner Smita Kharose has approached me to run the bakery," said Murthy. "Bafale will advise us on financial and legal matters."

Murthy admitted he had no experience of running a kitchen, but said he would leave the menu to his staff and let them decide what would work for the bakery.

Delay in opening
The government released Rs 12.73 lakh in compensation to German Bakery and Rs 1.50 lakh for Quality Bakery. Koregaon Perk residents are arguing that if Quality Bakery can open, then why can't German Bakery.

Yogesh Pingale, NCP Youth Wing city president and a resident of Koregaon Park, said: "If bakery owner Smita Kharose is thinking of changing the management and planning to hand it over to a completely new set of people who have no prior experience, then it is a serious breach of trust. The compensation money was given to the owner to revive the bakery."

Foreign visitors to the city who were regulars at the bakery before the blast ripped it apart seven months ago said they would not be keen to visit the bakery if things do not remain the same.

"It's almost seven months now since the February 13 blast. If the bakery owner is planning to change its menu, it is disappointing. We frequented the bakery primarily for its old-world charm and its unique food. If it is not the same, what is the point of going there," said a visitor from abroad, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Parting ways
Gopal Karkee, the manager who ran German Bakery for the last 23 years, was allegedly asked to quit. Karkee refused to divulge any details on who will take charge now. But sources said that owner Smita Kharose made certain changes in the rent which compelled Karkiee to give up the management of the bakery.