In the heart of the Funk Zone
The Helena Avenue Bakery is located in the historic Castagnola warehouse and local landmark located at 131 Anacapa Street. Situated in the rear manufacturing space that opens up to Helena Avenue just off the corner of Yanonali Street, the bakery serves as a wholesale bakery providing custom-baked sweet and savory goods for Lucky Penny, The Lark, Les Marchands and other coffee shops and restaurants throughout Santa Barbara. Specializing in hand-crafted baked goods made from scratch, the bakery will also feature a retail counter open to the public.
Doug Washington, acclaimed for his artistry in creating the distinguishing looks for The Lark, Les Marchands and Santa Barbara Wine Collective, designed the space. Local artist Sally Terrell was responsible for merchandising and interior design. Here, the bakery allows visitors to observe the chefs at work as they hand-shape baguettes, breads and pastries behind oversized glass walls. The bakers’ ovens and state-of-the-art equipment are exposed to the public, integrating modern machinery into the original architecture of the notable warehouse. The entrance to the bakery is accessed through a shared door of the Santa Barbara Wine Collective. The airy design fills the room with streaming light throughout the day, enhanced by vintage light fixtures that illuminate the kitchen.
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Credit: Helena Avenue Bakery
Helena Avenue Bakery
Why it’s hot: From the same group behind Lucky Penny, The Lark and Les Marchands, this airy, sun-filled bakery and counter features artisan breads, pastries, sandwiches and salads for on-the-go diners.
What to order: Stop at the picnic counter for egg croissants with arugula pesto and prosciutto; apricot-thyme croissants; cinnamon rolls; sprinkle-coated donuts; hand pies with seasonal jam; stone fruit galettes; quiche; house-pickled vegetables; Brussels sprouts Caesar salad; savory focaccia; cold fried chicken sandwiches and so much more. Grab a baguette, country walnut batards or pain au lait loaves for home.
Insider tip: The bakery shares a door with the Santa Barbara Wine Collective, which is next to Les Marchands.