Warm Hugs Bakery: Turkish Traditions, Family Roots, and One Unforgettable Cheesecake

By Nicole Eastwood | Merry in Marietta

If you’ve never been to Warm Hugs Bakery, you’re not alone — even after two years in business, it’s still one of Marietta’s sweetest hidden gems (Miss Mamie’s former location). But those who have stepped inside know: it’s more than a bakery. It’s a love letter to culture, family, and new beginnings.

Tugba, the woman behind the name, shared the story and soul behind her Turkish-American bakery — from nostalgic recipes to two-tier cake emergencies, and everything in between.

Why Marietta?

“My husband and I made the bold decision to leave our careers in Turkey and start anew here in the U.S., aiming to provide our children with better educational and life opportunities. With my grandfather’s legacy in baking, opening Warm Hugs felt like a natural step. It’s not just a bakery; it’s a dream to create a legacy we can pass down to our children, blending tradition with our new community in Marietta.”

A Blend of Cultures — and Flavors

The menu at Warm Hugs is a beautiful reflection of Tugba’s Turkish heritage. Classic desserts like baklava and tulumba are served alongside familiar favorites like cupcakes, macarons, and tres leches — each with a twist.

“Our menu reflects the rich tapestry of Turkish cuisine, where hospitality and tradition meet innovation. Specialties like Turkish coffee and baklava cheesecake allow us to share our culture with the Marietta community, offering a taste of Turkey in every bite.”

Introducing Turkish Delights to Georgia

“Sharing these flavors with people here has been such a joy. Introducing Turkish coffee and baklava to our customers is a delightful journey of discovery. Seeing their enjoyment and return visits is the greatest reward.”

Crowd Favorites

Tugba’s customers come back for more than just the warm hospitality — they come back for flavor.

“Our bestsellers include baklava, baklava cheesecake, classic cheesecake, Dubai chocolate, and lemon raspberry cupcakes. The baklava cheesecake, in particular, combines traditional flavors with a modern twist, and people absolutely love it.”

The Cake That Almost Wasn’t

“Custom wedding cakes and personalized designs have been some of the most challenging yet rewarding projects. Each cake tells a story.

Recently, I received an urgent two-tier cake order around noon. The client needed it for a special celebration the next morning and had detailed design requests. It was a tight turnaround, but I worked carefully through the night and delivered it early the next day. When the client saw it, they said it was even more beautiful than they imagined. That moment reminded me why I do this — the joy, the challenge, the craftsmanship.”

A Cozy Spot to Celebrate

Warm Hugs isn’t just for walk-ins and custom orders — it’s also a space to gather.

“We host private events like baby showers and birthdays. Guests can expect a warm atmosphere, delicious treats, and personalized details that make their celebration truly special.”

What Most People Don’t Know

“Warm Hugs is a family-run business and a reflection of our culture. Each product is a blend of traditional recipes with modern touches. We’re not just selling desserts — we’re sharing stories. And we’re building a family legacy inspired by my grandfather’s bakery in Turkey, one we hope to pass on to our children.”

Tugba’s Favorite?

“Without a doubt — baklava cheesecake. It combines the crispiness of baklava with the creaminess of cheesecake. It’s both nostalgic and inventive in every bite.”

Why It Matters

At a time when supporting small, family-run businesses means more than ever, Warm Hugs Bakery stands out — not just for its beautifully crafted cakes or Turkish delicacies, but for the heart, heritage, and hope it represents.

📍 Visit Warm Hugs Bakery in Marietta
🧁 Custom orders, Turkish desserts, private events
📸 See more at @warmhugsmarietta

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