Our Story: From Şenel Akbaş to Kevin Whitehead

 

 

Founder of Basil Grocery

 

A Journey of Flavor, Family & Culture

 

 

My name is Kevin Whitehead, though I was born and raised as Şenel Akbaş in the heart of Turkey. Growing up, I was surrounded by the aroma of fresh-baked bread, the clinking of tea glasses, and the warmth of community around shared meals. These memories stayed with me through every chapter of life.

 

Before coming to the United States, I was a teacher in Turkey. Teaching taught me how to connect with people. But when I moved to America, I had to start from scratch—new language, new culture, new opportunities. When I became a U.S. citizen, I chose a new name—not to forget my past, but to honor a future built on both my Turkish roots and my American dreams.

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Basil Grocery: A Business Born From Nostalgia

 

 

In 2018, my wife April and I launched Basil Grocery from our garage in Hillsborough, New Jersey. It started with a simple goal: to bring the flavors of home to people like us—Turkish Americans, immigrants, and food lovers across the U.S. longing for authenticity.

 

We sourced halal and Turkish pantry staples, packed each box with care, and treated every customer like family. What started as a small idea quickly grew into a national business with thousands of loyal customers.

 

More Than a Store—A Cultural Bridge

 

 

At Basil Grocery, we believe food is more than nourishment—it’s memory, identity, and connection. Every jar of acuka, every packet of Turkish coffee, every bottle of olive oil we ship carries a story. It’s the story of where we came from, and the story of where we’re going.

 

We’re proud to preserve our heritage while creating a new life in a new land. Through our business, we invite you to celebrate tradition, embrace culture, and enjoy the little comforts of home—wherever you may be.

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Welcome to Our Table

 

 

This is more than a business. It’s our life, our family, and our passion. Whether you grew up with these flavors or are discovering them for the first time—welcome.

 

You’re not just a customer. You’re part of our family.