If you prefer artisanal goods over mass-produced products, you likely try to avoid buying food coffee shops chains, supermarkets, and chain of grocery stores. Baked goods are typically freshest, healthiest, and most delicious when handcrafted by a local bakery. As you browse for a quality purveyor of bread and pastries in your area, consider the following important characteristics.

4 Qualities of Excellent Bakeries

1. Freshness

One of the defining characteristics of a good bakery is the use of fresh dough. Ideally, a skilled team should make the dough from scratch in-house each morning. Look for shops that bake fresh loaves and pastries daily and put handmade care into the process.

2. Premium Ingredients

Bakeries that use high-quality ingredients will produce tastier goods that are better for your health. Search for bakeries with a commitment to using whole wheat, raw sugar, fresh milk, organic produce, and free-range eggs in their loaves, rolls, buns, donuts, and tarts.

3. No Additives

Additives often diminish the flavor of baked goods and may contribute to health problems. Patronize bakeries that leave food coloring, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and leavening agents out of their dough and fillings.

4. Seasonal Menus 

Bakeries that use seasonal ingredients typically have a stronger commitment to quality. A bakery that changes its menu according to the growing season will bring you fresh fruit, cheeses, vegetables, and meats in their sweet and savory items.

The next time you’re in the mood for freshly baked goods, head to BRUG Bakery. This locally owned and operated Japanese bakery offers bread loafs, sandwiches, savory items, and sweets to hungry Honolulu patrons for breakfast, lunch, and dessert. Call (808) 945-2200 to ask about their bestsellers. Visit the Facebook page or website to browse their rotating menu and learn more about their company history, from Hokkaido to Hawaii.