Homestyle Bakeries Of Chestnut Hill

One of the biggest draws of Chestnut Hill is the vast amount of business that operates down the main strip.

The sheer variety and cultural diversity is unsurpassed. With tobacco shops, boutiques and cafés, just to name a few, the town has its own unique feel that separates it from the rest of Philadelphia.

Chestnut Hill’s bakeries, however, are considered the hub of attraction in the area. Each one has their own specialty, making competition less of a problem, and allowing them to coexist in prosperity.

Karen Boyd Rohde, original owner of Brendenbeck’s Bakery, opened her doors on April 14, 1983, and never looked back. At the time it was the only bakery in town.

“I was a bit nervous,” Rohde said in a recent interview. “People like to go into areas with a lot of restaurants and bakeries, and we were the first, so I was a little apprehensive of that. Now that there are more on the strip, I enjoy the company. I’m not worried about competition because each one of us has our own niche.”

Brendenbeck’s specializes in special occasion cakes and fancy torts, such as 3D cakes and wedding cakes. Even with the bakery’s success, it continues to expand to accommodate the customer’s needs.

“When we first opened in [19] 83, we had four employees, now there are approximately forty," she said. "We are constantly listening to the customer’s opinions, and changing our menus on a regular basis. It’s a happy business. The older I get, the more I appreciate what I do, which is making people happy."

Just a few short blocks away from Brendenbeck’s, Night Kitchen Bakery has been carving out its own niche as well for nearly 30 years. Specializing in handmade pastries and sticky buns, the business has seen significant growth in recent years.

Owner Amy Edelman, who took over the operation 10 years ago, expanded the business in October, introducing more seating and a new menu. It also now showcases decorating for patrons through a closed circuit TV that is displayed on the wall, or from the outside window.

“We are family owned,” ssaid manager Jennifer Low. “I think that playing a big part in the community is important to us, and we’ve been doing it for decades. It gives the business a home town feel, and separates us from the rest of Philadelphia.”

Jim Lilly franchised the store from the original owner five years ago, and brought in more local items, such as honey, jams, peanut butter, and yogurt.

As the Chestnut Hill bakeries continue to thrive, there are undoubtedly many years of delicious baked goods and service ahead.