, a former military installation turned agrotourism business and dining destination, is making waves in Albania’s tourism industry. Owned by visionary entrepreneur , Kazerma e Cerenit is the first Albanian green agrotourism business in the Western Balkans, utilizing renewable energy and sustainable agricultural practices.
A rich history and transformation
Originally established in 1975 as Army Barracks 3700, was a secretive military installation housing Chinese OQ-2 and OQ-4 rockets. After surviving a period of civil unrest in 1997, the barracks remained unused until its transformation into a agrotourism business in 2020.
’s transformation was carried out with minimal intervention, preserving the identity of each building and displaying rare military artifacts from the communist era. The dining hall and dormitories were kept as close to their original state as possible, with contemporary spaces created for food processing.
A unique culinary and cultural experience
Today, offers visitors a unique blend of history, sustainability, local culture and exceptional cuisine. The agrotourism business boasts a wide variety of organically grown fruits and vegetables, as well as traditional Albanian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
With an emphasis on sustainability, Kazerma e Cerenit is a leader in ecotourism in Albania. The installation is powered by solar panels, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and promoting the use of renewable energy.
Photo provided by Digital Nod
An inspiration for a sustainable future
The success of Kazerma e Cerenit could serve as an inspiration for other countries to explore innovative ways of repurposing historical sites for a more sustainable future. By preserving its historical significance and contributing to the growth of Albania’s ecotourism and culinary industries, Kazerma e Cerenit has become a symbol of the nation’s remarkable transformation.
Shehu’s vision and leadership have not only transformed a former military installation but also contributed to the growth of Albania’s tourism industry. Kazerma e Cerenit is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience Albania’s rich history, culture and cuisine in a sustainable and innovative way.
Success does not happen overnight; it takes countless hours of hard work, dedication and conquering numerous failures and challenges, especially in business and entrepreneurship. It’s an even tougher task when you start at ground zero. One individual who’s had quite a remarkable journey, coming from a third-world country to find success in the United States’ competitive restaurant industry, is Moe El-Hamawi, aka .
Big Moe was born and raised in Beirut, Lebanon in a family of eight, consisting of his parents, three brothers and two sisters. Growing up, he watched his father and uncle run their own glass shop in South Beirut, and the family’s entrepreneurial influence would play a significant role in his future. When Big Moe was 17 years old, he and his family left their native home and moved to Michigan to begin a new journey. It took the young adult quite some time to adjust to his new life, and it was a struggle, to say the least. But Big Moe made ends meet working multiple jobs and eventually found his calling by working at a restaurant in a nearby airport. Within three months of working there, he was promoted to lead cook, sparking his interest in beginning culinary school and advancing his career as a chef.
After graduating from Schoolcraft College with a degree in culinary arts, Big Moe decided to become his own boss and used his years of culinary experience and education to open his own restaurant, . Opening in 2016 as a 600-square-foot carryout spot inside a gas station in Wayne, Michigan, the restaurant eventually moved in 2017 to a larger location in Garden City, where it still operates today.
has become a local favorite, offering a vast selection of items on their menu such as wings, wraps, subs, rice bowls, salads and smoothies, as well as signature dishes like bam bam shrimp, barbecue chicken egg rolls, loaded smoked brisket fries, smoked brisket sandwich and almond chicken. Whatever your taste buds may desire, you’ll likely find something to enjoy there.
Big Moe has only expanded his business since opening his first store, bringing its top cuisines to more communities. The restaurant has five (soon to be six) storefronts located across Michigan in Garden City, Dearborn, Grand Blanc, Oxford, Canton and soon, Detroit. It also operates food trucks in Michigan and Georgia. Big Moe’s Kitchen is currently working to expand nationwide to cities like Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and New York.
The news and editorial staffs of the Morning Call had no role in this post’s preparation.
