MAY 2 0 1 9 I BOROMAG.COM 37
lotus flower logo. Albayrak wisely chose
to add little hints of nature on the inside
by hanging pots of flowers on the walls
and using round, wooden tables that
look like they came straight from tree
trunks.
“After opening my Ridgewood location,
I started looking for another spot. I
waited for the Chakra spot for one year.
Finally I bought the former YogurBerry
and created Chakra,” Albayrak said. “It
took time, energy but it was worth it. Every
single item in Chakra, I spent hours
on, from lamps to tables. Finally here
we are.”
Anyone who walks into Chakra Cafe
can automatically tell that it is a space
for relaxation and a place to reset mentally.
It is decorated like a home, filled
with tinted glass hanging lights, neutral
colors and comfortable pillows that rest
on the booth seats.
“‘Chakra' is an energy section in
body, so we tried to make the cafe harmonious.
A place where people can stay
and get a mental rest. Listen to music
with friendly people around,” Kostyshkina
said.
The atmosphere in Chakra feels like a
spiritual getaway and fits well into Sunnyside,
since locals and those who frequent
the area come from all walks of
life, hail from various places and practice
many different cultures.
“I feel at home. First week, I was surprised.
A lot of people came and said
welcome,” Albayrak said. “That part was
amazing and it helped us to be motivated
quickly.”
Albayrak has enjoyed getting to know
his new customers over the past month
and said that some people have become
regulars very quickly.
“My favorite part is sitting with people
I just met and talk about almost
everything. Very liberal and modern
people. Friendly and welcoming,” Albayrak
said. “We have regular customers
already, coming in every day and
getting their usuals, like we have been
Photos: Allison Kridle/BORO
/BOROMAG.COM