Local Business Spotlight: The Chantry Kitchen: A Slice of Artisan Heaven in Saxmundham, Suffolk
If you're looking for a local gem that's been sprinkling a touch of magic into the hearts and homes of Saxmundham, Suffolk residents for the past 18 months, look no further than The Chantry Kitchen Ltd, lovingly owned by Jo Risby In a world where mass production often trumps craftsmanship, Jo's artisan bread and delectable sweet treats stand out as a beacon of quality and authenticity.
A Taste of The Chantry Kitchen
At The Chantry Kitchen, you're in for a treat. Jo specialises in artisan bread made to order, with sourdough being the star of the show, capturing the hearts and taste buds of her customers. For those who prefer yeasted bread, Jo caters to their cravings too. But that's just the beginning. The menu includes mouthwatering sweet buns like Swedish cinnamon buns and dark chocolate and pistachio buns, plus cheese scones that have earned the title of "the best in Suffolk."
If you're in Saxmundham on the second Saturday of any month from March to November, don't miss the monthly market where you can find Jo's stall brimming with a variety of bread and other sweet and savoury delights.
The Baker's Artistry
What sets The Chantry Kitchen apart is Jo's commitment to quality. Everything is meticulously handcrafted in her home kitchen—no mass production, no preservatives, additives, or processing agents. For those interested in learning the art of breadmaking, Jo offers intimate bread-making courses with limited spots (just four attendees). These courses are hosted in her cosy home kitchen, creating a relaxed and personalised environment for aspiring bakers. New this October is a Teen baking course, where teenagers can attend for free when accompanying a paying adult.
A Journey Born from Change
Jo's journey into the world of artisan baking is as heartwarming as her bread. She founded The Chantry Kitchen in the wake of the pandemic and the loss of a dear friend. The changing world prompted her to make a significant career shift and return to her hometown of Saxmundham. Since then, her business has been steadily growing, and she's had the pleasure of meeting countless amazing individuals, further cementing her place within the Suffolk community.
Giving Back to the Community
Beyond her delectable offerings, Jo is actively involved in the local community. She has lent her support to the IP17 GNS, a local charity, by providing catering for the Platinum Jubilee and the Coronation weekend. She also organised a kids' baking class, bringing joy to both the young participants and the community.
Overcoming Challenges with Passion
Jo's journey hasn't been without its share of challenges, especially for someone who spent over 30 years working in construction. Designing her own website was a daunting task that required numerous hours of dedication and learning. Her resilience paid off, and she now has a website she's proud of. Additionally, mastering social media was another adventure, but she's embraced it with enthusiasm, even if there have been a few "dodgy" posts along the way.
A Heartwarming Connection
One of Jo's proudest moments was when she helped a customer discover the joy of sourdough. With some concerns over a possible gluten intolerance, Jo encouraged her to try sourdough, explaining that the fermentation process breaks down gluten into a more digestible form. The result? A delighted customer who can now enjoy two small loaves of sourdough every week.
Join The Chantry Kitchen Experience
Jo Risby and The Chantry Kitchen are an inspiring testament to the power of passion and community. If you're curious about the benefits of artisan bread or simply want to explore the world of baking, Jo is more than happy to chat with you. And if you're looking to treat your taste buds to heavenly bread and buns, or embark on a baking adventure, The Chantry Kitchen is your local haven.
To explore Jo's offerings or learn more about her courses, visit her website at [www.thechantrykitchen.co.uk](www.thechantrykitchen.co.uk) or reach out to her at thechantrykitchen@aol.com or 07508344037. You can also stay updated with The Chantry Kitchen on social media through @thechantrykitchen and facebook.com/JoRisbyTheChantryKitchen.
Jo Risby and The Chantry Kitchen are more than just a bakery; they're a taste of community, passion, and artistry, serving up slices of pure heaven in Saxmundham, Suffolk.
If you’d like to be part of our local business spotlight, or you know a business you’d love us to should about, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at janene@heavenlyhairstyling.co.uk