Grill restaurant “Sejda” is a must-visit place in North Mitrovica
Generations of Mitrovica residents, as well as all visitors to this city, are well acquainted with the specialty - Sejda's meatballs, a unique type of barbecue that stands out from the others due to its irresistible taste.
As the tradition of this Gorani grill restaurant dates back to 1965, the meatballs have become a symbol and a must-visit place in this city on the Ibar, and numerous guests from all over the world widely share their impressions of the meatballs as one of the best specialties they have tasted.
One of the owners of the "Sejda" grill restaurant, Albert Alija, told Kosovo Online that he and his brothers were the third generation that traditionally made meatballs, and before them, their father and grandfather had done the same.
"We hope to welcome the fourth generation. We already have one who is working, and my son is trying to be their successor. We'll see what happens", he proudly emphasizes.
Regarding the specific nature of these meatballs, Alija mentions that it is a matter of a special recipe and quality meat.
"The secret is certainly in the recipe, which, I can freely say, has been going on for 60-70 years, and our meatballs are special compared to others because they stand out in taste and aroma", Alija says.
Seven days a week, diligent workers tirelessly turn this round delicacy on the grill that never goes out, as their demand is high, resulting in frequent crowding in the establishment.
Despite the large number of people who visit this grill restaurant on a daily basis, whether to dine in or take food to go, the owners and workers are always smiling and in good spirits, with a desire to please everyone and provide the best hospitality.
The crowd in this establishment is particularly evident during lunch and dinner times, and Alija mentions that their sales vary from day to day.
"Usually, around 500 people pass by every day; it is a lot of work, we work", he emphasizes.
As this grill restaurant became a must-visit place in North Mitrovica, it attracted many customers from outside Kosovo. Alija says that Mitrovica's meatballs have reached five continents.
Albert modestly talks about his guests, mentioning actors, singers, various businessmen, and artists. In one sentence, you can see how popular the "Sejda" grill is.
Sejda's meatballs are a regular item on the menu for the Djokovic family, and the biggest fan of juicy meat, according to Albert, is Novak Djoković's father, Srdjan.
"Our biggest guest is Novak's father, and we regularly send them burgers to Belgrade. Almost everyone who comes from abroad takes some for takeout. Today, I had sujuk and meatballs to prepare for Germany. Many famous people have visited, including actors and singers, and many more. Bora Corba, Anabela, and Milanka Karic have also visited. Many people come; I wouldn't want to forget someone, but they come", Albert said.
Despite numerous requests to start their business in larger cities in Serbia and persuasions from various public figures to create a real business boom wherever they go with their meatballs, this Gorani family skillfully continues to preserve the tradition of good food.
When asked why they didn't try their luck in larger cities, they say, "Those who love good taste know where to find us. Somehow, intentionally or accidentally, everyone ends up in Kosovska Mitrovica, and we are here to welcome them and allow them to enjoy our food", the Alija family says.
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