Hansel and Gretel Bakery has been a Maple Ridge favourite for more than 12 years, known for sourdough with a lively tang and pastry croissants that flake just right. Walk in and you’ll notice the same warm ovens and hand-shaped loaves that built their reputation, plus a steady line of regulars who come in for weekday morning buns. They’re not a cookie-cutter chain; they’re a 1,200 square foot neighbourhood bakery where skilled bakers shape, score and steam each day’s batch on-site.

Their counter changes with the season, but you can always expect a clear list of well-made items. Mornings start with espresso from a local roaster, butter croissants, almond croissants and pain au chocolat. Sourdough breads include their 72-hour ferment country loaf, seeded rye and a walnut-fig loaf. Midday favourites are savoury options like ham and gruyere turnovers and quiche Lorraine. For celebrations, they make custom cakes, from a simple two-layer lemon drizzle to wedding cakes that serve 100. They also offer gluten-aware options and a small selection of vegan pastries, all labelled clearly.

The team is small and hands-on: head baker Maria Lopez trained at Pacific Culinary Centre and leads three full-time bakers and two pastry apprentices. They mix by hand when recipes call for it, keep daily bake logs for consistency, and welcome walkthroughs of the prep area by appointment. Service is friendly and fast; special orders are confirmed by phone and ready on the promised date.

Maple Ridge residents choose Hansel and Gretel for reliable taste, honest portions and a genuine neighbourhood feel. They sponsor the annual Harvest Street Fair and supply treats to the local food bank during holidays, so your purchase supports the community as well as your breakfast. Visit them at 20952 Lougheed Hwy or call 604-463-0034. Website: http://www.hanselandgretelbakery.ca/