The Phoenixville bakery and coffee shop specializes in artisan breads, and is the only off-site workshop of Camphill Soltane, a non-profit organization that has its main campus close to Ludwig’s Corner in Chester County. It is part of their vocational program, Soltane Works, which provides career opportunities to adults with developmental disabilities. The staff of Soltane Breads and Spreads is made up of employees, coworkers, residents and students from Camphill Soltane. This makes for a truly unique place!
This is Ryan’s first transition into baking, having done restaurant work previously. He’s originally from Portland, and Ryan remarked that this “connection runs deep.” Head baker Mark Doberenz comes from Portland as well, just like the coffee they brew at Soltane. Ryan says he was excited to work with Mark; “He’s got the bread magic!”
The store is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 am – 6 pm, although staff is there beginning Tuesday morning preparing the dough and baking away! Whole grain sourdough bread is Soltane’s focus, and this bread takes some time to make. On Monday evening they wake up the sourdough starters, long before the bread is baked. This helps the bread develop flavor, and even makes it better for you. This bread is very much a labor of love.
They opened last July, and have developed a regular crowd. Customers can watch the bread being made when they come in, which encourages conversation and can never hurt when you’re looking to try a new pastry or loaf! Ryan described their Classic French Baguette as “the gateway bread;” something great to try if it’s your first visit or if you’re not sure what you might like. However, there’s plenty of variety at Soltane if baguettes aren’t your thing.
There’s also a growing pastry selection at Soltane—they offer anything from hand rolled croissants (which are heavenly) to scones and organic coconut macaroons (their first gluten free product!).
Soltane Breads and Spreads first launched with start-up funding from Camphill Soltane, making it a unique business, or, as Ryan described it, “there’s just a general awesomeness to the whole place.” Ryan mused that “it’s a situation that allows us to maintain such a high quality, and it feels unstoppable.” Anyone who’s been inside Soltane would probably agree, and I know I can’t wait to stop back this Saturday!
Soltane Breads and Spreads is located at 138 Bridge Street, Phoenixville, PA. They are open Thursday, Friday and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Call 610-933-1819 for more information.
Photographs credited to Nina Lea Photography.
