A new globally-inspired bakery called Kendall's Kitchen is replacing Charlie's Best Bread in San Diego's Pacific Beach.
After more than 30 years in business, Charlie's Best Bread unexpectedly closed its doors last summer, leaving a void in Pacific Plaza off Garnet Avenue. Kendall's Kitchen aims to fill that hole with a diverse array of baked goods from around the world. Owner Mara Fortin, who previously operated Nothing Bundt Cakes stores throughout San Diego before selling the franchises in 2019, brings her experience and passion for baking to this new venture. Named after her eldest daughter, Kendall's Kitchen is a tribute to family and the inspiration behind the bakery's creation.
Scheduled to open this fall, the bakery will occupy not only the former Charlie's Best Bread space but also the adjacent suite. Customers can expect a rotating selection of fresh baked goods, including Czech kolaches, European pasties, cookies, and savory sausage rolls. The bakery will also feature bread from a local vendor, with plans to possibly bake challah bread in-house one day a week.
Kendall's Kitchen promises to keep its offerings fresh and exciting, with a menu that frequently changes to spotlight different regions and their unique baked goods. The bakery's concept is designed to surprise and delight customers with unexpected treats each visit. While kolaches and cookies will be staples, the rest of the menu will vary, ensuring that each experience at Kendall's Kitchen is unique.
"I am thrilled to bring Kendall's Kitchen to this amazing beach community," explained Mara Fortin. "I was a customer of Charlie’s for two years before it closed. My daughters, Kendall and Karyn, along with myself, miss it. While our menu will be different, we hope to honor the traditions the community has come to love. As we remodel both spaces over the coming months, you will see a lovely enchanted forest emerge, with beautiful chandeliers. Truly a nod to European traditions. We will continue our soft opening until our grand opening date of November 17. Please stop by!"
In addition to its baked goods, Kendall's Kitchen will offer a selection of coffee drinks, making it a perfect spot for a morning pastry or an afternoon coffee break. As the opening date approaches, anticipation is building for this new bakery that promises to bring a taste of the world to Pacific Beach. Kendall's is currently in its soft opening stage, offering a bare bones interior and very limited selection, as well as samples of its baked goods.
Kendall's Kitchen is anticipated to fully open in the coming months at 1808 Garnet Avenue in San Diego's Pacific Beach. For more information, visit kendalls-kitchen.com.