The Upper Crust Bakery – Fulfilling life-long dreams

There is a new bakery that just opened up here in Raleigh, very close to our house, called The Upper Crust Bakery.  We have made it one of our new favorite places.  This morning I took my daughter there for breakfast, and the food was awesome yet again.

Everything is made fresh each day, and the decor makes you feel like you are in a Parisian bakery (even though you are in suburban Raleigh).

The best thing about Upper Crust is not the food, however.  It is the story of the owner, Mareia Gregory.  The first time we went in to eat there, I spoke with Mareia’s daughter about how they were doing.  She proceeded to tell me the story of how they had come to open the bakery.

Mareia was a nurse for 30+ years, but had always dreamed of running her own bakery.  She started planning to retire a few years back, and the family started scheming to open the bakery.  After she retired, the bakery opened with the whole family pitching in.  Mareia is always there (at least in the mornings), working in the back on the delicious treats.  Her husband is usually milling about, fixing stuff or reading the paper.  Her daughter is out front, managing the counter.

I love places like this.  In the world of bland Panera, you really notice when someone takes the time to put their soul into their work.  If you live in Raleigh, I would urge you to try it out as soon as you can.

Our favorites are the orange scones, cinnamon rolls, and breakfast sandwiches.  Apparently the pies are amazing, but I have not tried them yet.