The Shops of Grayton Beach is home to a neighborhood bakery, coffee shop, and all-day seasonal café. Black Bear Bread Co. is the newest culinary creation from Chef Phil McDonald and restauranteur Dave Rauschkolb of Bud & Alley’s fame.

“We wanted to bring a true artisan bakery to South Walton,” said Rauschkolb.

Black Bear Bread Co.’s specialty is making bread naturally from fermentation and then supplying it at both the retail level and wholesale to local restaurants.

“Freshly-baked naturally leavened bread, dynamically seasonal produce, and sensible sourcing are the inspiration for our café menu,” said McDonald. “Baker Debbie Swenerton’s creations are always evolving, but currently include naturally leavened country sourdough, multigrain sourdough, baguettes, focaccia, bagels, challah, cinnamon rolls, cookies, kouign-amann, and a weekly seasonal sandwich.”

McDonald said the company’s name was inspired by the presence of black bears behind their bakery kitchen.

“When we began testing our sourdough starters, we soon discovered bears were climbing into our dumpster to eat the starter,” said McDonald. “We thought we would pay homage to our furry neighbors who apparently share our appreciation for great sourdough.”

In recent months, Black Bear is expanding its reach.

After a brief closure, their revamped natural wine bar Bar Room reopened with new deck seating. In early 2022, a third outlet of the wildly popular cafe and bakery opened in Seaside.

For the latest updates, follow Black Bear Bread Co. on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.