Taking over the previous Harken Coffee unit in Downtown Eastside, ex-Flourist Head Bakers Tommy Aird and Charlie-May Bingham are teaming up for a new bakery that is more than just a place for your usual bread and pastries.
Tommy’s Whole Grain Bakery will be a commitment to sustainability, community, and the art of whole grain baking.
A Healthier & More Sustainable Baking Method
The bakery is set to redefine the traditional approach to baking.
Embracing the whole grain philosophy, Tommy’s Whole Grain Bakery will offer a range of products made from unrefined grains. This approach ensures that the baked goods are not just tastier but also packed with nutrition.
There are so many benefits to eating whole grain breads in comparison to the store bought ‘bread’. One of the main ones being nutrition. Wheat contains 21 micronutrients. All but one is lost in the sifting process. Sifting extracts nutrients. Only the giant flour companies like Five Roses or Robin Hood are made to enrich their flour with synthetic nutrients to replace what was taken out.
Charlie-May, Head Baker of Tommy’s Whole Grain Bakery
In fact, Diabetes Canada states that whole grain foods can aid in promoting bowel regularity, lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar levels, and decrease risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
And by using the entire grain, the bakery is addressing modern food production challenges like food waste and nutrient loss.
This method not only offers a healthier alternative to traditional baking but also aligns with the bakery’s environmental ethos.
Additionally, by partnering with local organic grain growers, like Cedar Isle Farms in Agassiz, BC, the bakery underlines its commitment to sustainable and local food practices.
A Menu That Promises Nutrition and Taste
The bakery will delight locals with its high-quality, nutritious baked goods.
From whole grain sourdough loaves and baguettes to brioche buns, quiches, and fruit tarts, the bakery promises a delicious experience.
Complementing these offerings will be a selection of drip coffees and teas, perfect for pairing with a quick, nutritious bite.
An Ambiance of Elegance and Comfort
The interior of Tommy’s Whole Grain Bakery will be a blend of elegance and comfort.
Its high walls of exposed brick (unchanged from Harken days), high ceilings, and large windows will create a bright and inviting atmosphere.
The playful window decor, designed by Tommy’s wife and in-house designer Kat Tzingounakis (a_more_colourful_world), will add a touch of whimsy. With a standing bar and stools, the bakery will offer a cozy spot for locals to enjoy their treats.
With the bakery set to open in the coming 2 – 3 weeks, Tommy’s Whole Grain is poised to become a vital part of Vancouver’s growing food space.
It’s not just about introducing new flavours but about stepping towards a more sustainable, health-conscious future in food.
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Address: 338 Powell St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1G4
P.S. You can support Tommy’s Whole Grain Bakery by also donating to their GoFundMe.