The Garash Cake and the Rousse Chamber of Commerce and Industry: Historical Roots, Heritage and Celebrating the Cake's Birthday

Every day we experience different events and moments, some of which have the ability to become an important part of our collective history and heritage. One of these events, which has left an unforgettable imprint on the culture and history of Ruse and Bulgaria as a whole, is the creation of the world-famous "Garash" cake. Its creation coincides with the formation of the First Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce, the two events have a unique connection, which we will examine in more detail.

Making the Garash Cake

After settling in Rousse as a result of the events of the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), Kosta Garaš and his wife Teresa began a new chapter in their lives. In 1885, they leased the prestigious Islyah Hane Hotel, where they applied their culinary skills to improve the hotel's services.

The shining moment in Garaš's career came on June 21, 1890, when he was invited to prepare a banquet for 80 people on the occasion of the arrival of Princely Viceroy and Prime Minister Stefan Stambolov. The event is also significant for the economic development of the country, as it coincides with the founding of the First Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce. In this historical context, Kosta Garasch, a confectioner trained in Vienna, created his masterpiece - the Garasch cake.

Thus, on July 19, 1890, it is assumed that the "Garash" cake was served for the first time, accompanied by nine bottles of champagne, and one of the most delicious traditions in Bulgarian cuisine began.

The foundation of the First Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce

Simultaneously with the creation of the "Garash" cake, another significant event is taking place in Ruse. In 1890, the First Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce was formed, which gathered business people in the city with the aim of protecting the interests of the commercial and productive strata and to function as an advisor to the government on economic issues.

Between 1885 and 1903, 135 trading companies were registered in Ruse, and the city also became the place of creation of the first joint stock companies in Bulgaria. Despite its economic importance, the Chamber of Commerce is not limited to representative events and at the end of 1890, the members of the Chamber were the initiators of establishing the First Bulgarian Insurance Joint Stock Company "Bulgaria".

Thus, while the "Garash" cake celebrates its birth with the presence of Prime Minister Stefan Stambolov, the First Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce begins its activity and lays the foundations of Bulgarian business and economic development.

This story is an example of how one event can lead to unforgettable moments and leave significant marks in our history and culture. And since this year we celebrated the 133rd anniversary of the establishment of the Rousse Chamber of Commerce and Industry, here is the corresponding mention of the birth of the "Garash" cake, which continues to delight its connoisseurs all over the world.