You know a good bakery when you smell it. And by “it,” I mean butter being deliciously cut, mixed, and molded into fresh croissants, chewy cookies, or warm, gooey sweet rolls.
But Idahoans are no strangers to homemade treats; we know that good cooking takes time and a lot of small town love. So what does it take to stand out in a state full of delectable baked goods? How about a biscuit so perfectly flaky that every gravy-topped bite is a mouthful of heaven, every scone so perfectly golden brown that their warm fruit centers positively melt in your mouth. It takes a bakery set in such an idyllic, secluded location that the fresh mountain air only makes the coffee that much better, and every conversation that much more memorable.
The Stanley Baking Company in Stanley, Idaho is that perfect blend of delicious homemade eats and magical surroundings – all set in one of the coziest communities in the state.
It's no secret that Stanley is one of Idaho's most beautiful adventure gateways, and there's no denying that fresh mountain hair has a knack for making one's stomach rumble.
The opening of the bakery and cafe was the realization of a small town dream, followed by the taking over of the historic Sawtooth Hotel a few years later.
During the town's open season, typically mid-May through October, this rustic log cabin's owners hand roll, slice, flip, frost, and serve up incredible homemade baked goods.
As one of the top three snowiest places in the state, this itty bitty mountain town is at the mercy of Idaho's weather. So long as the infamous snow doesn't pile too high - the shop's open season is a lengthy, long-awaited one.
Often, the line stretches out the door, even as the interior pulses with friendly chatter and small town community.
With a population of less than 100 people, there isn't too much competition here in Stanley, but visitors and locals (and this writer) all agree that the Stanley Baking Co. is without a doubt one of the most delicious and comfortable places to dine in the state!
For breakfast, the Basque breakfast scramble and breakfast burritos are especially popular - and the large portions a welcome touch for the hungry traveler. But the hashbrowns, sandwiches,
Or, just come for the hot coffee, drinks, and homey, community atmosphere!
