Kolache. Klobasnek. Klobasniki. Whatever old world name you call it, the Czech pastry made of semi-sweet dough and sweet and savory fillings can be found at the Kolache Factory. Founded in 1982, Kolache Factory is celebrating 40 years of bringing the fresh, authentic taste and warmth of the Eastern European pastry to American foodies. When John Banks and his late wife Jerri founded the first Kolache Factory in Houston, Texas, they saw an opportunity to introduce the Czech pastry as a fresh, high-quality food that could be eaten “on the run.” With a variety of fruit, meat, and cheese fillings, they knew it was the perfect breakfast, lunch, or snack food – and great for parties, too! After perfecting the recipe, the Banks’ launched a campaign to educate customers on their own Texas twist to the beloved kolache. Their vision of Kolache Factory was to be a community restaurant that served food that’s not only fresh, delicious, and more nutritious than fast food, but served in an environment that brings back the charm and warmth of the old world.