5 Local Bakeries for a Sweet Start to Small Business Week
The cooler temperatures of Fall call for hot cups of coffee and warm baked goods. Whether you’re in search of a cozy café or need to grab a quick pick-me-up in between meetings or shuttling kids to and from activities, there’s no shortage of delightful local bakeries. And with Small Business Week taking place from October 18 to 24, here are five more reasons to brave the rain, delight in a Danish, and check out these 5 local bakeries.
Our local favourites: from fancy French pastries to charming homey classics
Beaucoup Bakery & Café
Look no further than Beaucoup Bakery when you’ve got a croissant craving to satisfy. The bakery’s French-inspired pastries deliver mouth-watering goodness, often with a creative twist. Check out the classic Pain Au Chocolat or go for the plant-based PB & J Sandwich (“PB Squared”). Owners, sister and brother duo Betty and Jacky Hung, recently introduced a selection of plant-based treats to the menu. It’s guilt-free indulgence sure to satisfy both you and the kids!
2150 Fir Street, Vancouver
BjornBar Bakery
One of the newer kids on the block is BjornBar Bakery. With baked goods delicious as they are Instagram worthy, it’s no surprise this North Vancouver bakery quickly amassed a cult following. Chef Tamera Clark opened the bakery in 2016 with the goal of creating what they refer to as “elevated nostalgic baking”.
Full disclosure: it won’t be an easy decision. If you’re stumped, you can’t go wrong with a carrot and walnut breakfast loaf (feat. maple glaze) and ask about the Ganookie.
102-3053 Edgemont Boulevard, North Vancouver
LIVIA Bakery
‘A small bakery, filled with joy and carbs.’ What more could you ask for? LIVIA Bakery is run by a husband-and-wife team who lovingly named their cozy café as a nod to an Italian Nona. Among other delights, you’ll find a varied selection of pastry perfection and of course, there’s the bread (rosemary focaccia – yes, please!). LIVIA also boasts a restaurant and wine bar, so come for a morning Danish and stay for a plate of pasta. You’ll be saying “Che buono” in no time!
1399 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
The Valley Bakery
Looking for the perfect baked good on a crisp fall day? You can’t argue with 60 years of award-winning expertise. The family-owned Valley Bakery in Burnaby is well-known for its sweet and savoury European treats. They also serves up exceptional specialty cakes. The kids will especially love the phenomenal cookie selection…don’t be surprised if you find yourself singing, “Who stole the cookie from the cookie jar?” when there’s only crumbs left behind!
4508 Hastings Street, Burnaby
Westlynn Bakery
For those familiar with this hidden gem in Lynn Valley, you’ll know that Westlynn Bakery is a go-to for delectable treats at any time of year. The bakery has served the North Shore for more than 34 years and their passion for quality, affordable baked goods has withstood the test of time. Be sure to check out their seasonal treats (the pumpkin sugar cookies are a fall staple at our house).
1199 Lynn Valley Rd #130, North Vancouver
#SupportLocal
This is a particularly great month to support local small businesses, so venture somewhere new or visit an old favourite… Plus, score bonus points when you offer to curb your kids’ dreaded after school “I’m hungry” chant with some tasty baked treats. Win-win! These are only a selection of the many incredible bakeries within Metro Vancouver. Tell us about your favourite spot for baked goods or show us by tagging #VancouverMom for a chance to be featured on our social channels.
