Antoniya Petkova and husband Gencho Petkov
From Engineering Expertise to Crepes Mastery: The Journey of Antoniya and Gencho Petkova
Antoniya Petkova and her husband Gencho arrived from Bulgaria only days after the 4th of September 2010 earthquake to start a new life in Christchurch, New Zealand. Their story is one of resilience, passion, and an unexpected journey from engineering to entrepreneurship.
The couple first met while studying Mechanical Engineering at a university in Bulgaria, where Gencho’s talent quickly stood out. According to Antoniya, her husband was a star student, with university tutors remarking they had never mentored someone with such skill and aptitude. “Some people are born to do certain things,” Antoniya reflected. “He was born to be an engineer.”
Despite Gencho’s career in engineering bringing the family to New Zealand, it was Antoniya’s love for baking and connecting with people that steered them toward a new venture. After observing the success of food trucks at local events, the couple launched Crepes De La Monde in 2018. “For me, it wasn’t just about making food,” Antoniya explained. “It was about creating a welcoming experience. I like to create a bond with my customers. I want them to feel at home, confident that they’ll always get good food.”
Their food truck quickly became a hit, leading them to open a permanent location at The Crossing Shopping Centre in Central Christchurch. Their goal was to engage with Christchurch’s growing tourist market, particularly visitors from France, Germany, and Asia—cultures that hold a deep appreciation for crepes. “Once customers try them, they develop a craving,” Antoniya said with a smile.
Running the business has become a family affair, with their two sons, aged 16 and 25, helping out with the food truck whenever they can. However, Antoniya and Gencho have observed some cultural differences between Bulgaria and New Zealand, particularly in the value placed on education. “Back in Europe, with the larger population base, if you want a job, you need at least two additional languages and a business management degree,” Antoniya noted, contrasting this with New Zealand’s more relaxed approach to higher education, especially among younger people, including their own children.
Despite these differences, the Petkovas have fallen in love with Christchurch. They appreciate the city’s resilience and ongoing rebuilding since the earthquake. Antoniya shared that, whenever they travel overseas, they always look forward to returning home. Excited about the city’s future, they eagerly await the completion of the new stadium and other redevelopment projects.
When they’re not serving up delicious crepes, Antoniya and Gencho enjoy exploring Christchurch’s vibrant food scene. Antoniya particularly enjoys dining at The Terrace and in particular, Amaterrace, a Japanese steakhouse, and is a fan of The Crossing Food Court, which she believes more locals should discover for its excellent food offerings.
From their roots in engineering to building a successful food business, Antoniya and Gencho Petkova’s journey is a testament to their ability to adapt, follow their passions, and thrive in their new home. They look forward to seeing more locals come in to try their Crepes and explore the city and its wonderful offerings.
Parking
With over 10,000 car parks in the city centre, find one where you need it.
Central City
Classics
From the Cathedral Square markets to the Margaret Mahy playground, these beloved central city experiences always draw us back to the CBD.
Old Government Building
The former Government Building is a heritage building in Christchurch, New Zealand. It was designed by Joseph Maddison...
Kate Sheppard Memorial
The Kate Sheppard National Memorial, located in the city of Christchurch, is New Zealand's first memorial to the...
Oi Manawa Earthquake Memorial
The Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial is the Crown's official memorial for those killed or seriously injured in...
Riverside Mural
This mural provides a new perspective on street art and demonstrates the rich heritage of a time past, remembering the...
Central City Classics
From the Cathedral Square markets to the Margaret Mahy playground, these beloved central city experiences always draw us back to the CBD.
Old Government Building
The former Government Building is a heritage building in Christchurch, New Zealand. It was designed by Joseph Maddison...
Tribute to Ernest Rutherford
A tribute to Ernest Rutherford, who studied at the University of Canterbury and is regarded as the father of nuclear...
Cracked Ink Artwork
This new piece on the Rockpool Bar building is by New Zealand artist Cracked Ink.
