Some traditions never go out of style, especially when it comes to baking. Established in the Ukraine in 1996, Nature Healing Bakery has a rich history filled with tasty treats and healthy bread. Lucky for us, they have finally landed in Canada and are now open for business in Toronto.
Having opened nearly a month ago on Queen St. West in Parkdale, the NH Bakery has become an essential new spot for the neighbourhood's local dwellers and visitors alike. With an expansive list of options, the diversity of the bakery's menu is a direct reflection of their customers, with something unique for everyone.
Using a long, cold fermentation process and healthy flour alternatives, the bakery creates fine artisanal bread, sweet treats, cakes and sandwiches that are natural and more beneficial to our health. Their products are naturally very high in quality minerals, vitamins and other essential micro-nutrients with no added sugar or artificial flavours.
With a genuine passion for helping to improve human health, the bakery only uses organic alternative flours that contain healthy fibres like rye, buckwheat, oatmeal, almond, coconut, flaxseed and unbleached organic premium wheat flour. Not only is the majority of their bread made of sourdough (to better help digestion), but they also have an array of keto and gluten-free options for those with certain dietary restrictions.
One of the café's walls is lined with nearly 15 different kinds of bread, all beautifully displayed for those venturing inside. The plan is to line the shelves directly underneath with bags of the appropriate flours used to make the bread for those wanting to re-create the magic at home.
With so much to choose from, it won't be an easy decision; however, the traditional Ukrainian-style bread is a noteworthy favourite. Similar to challah, the pletenka is a little soft, a little sweet, with a rich and spongy texture. Other must-try items are the fresh croissants stuffed with strawberries and cream, the mini mousse-cakes, as well as their lightweight yet crunchy, gluten-free amaretti. Custom cake orders for special occasions will also be taken in advance over the phone.
The plan is to expand the NH Bakery empire as much as possible, with the hopes of soon getting into the retail and wholesale business. They are thrilled to finally be open at their first location and look forward to welcoming guests for indoor and outdoor dining once COVID restrictions allow.
The NH Bakery is in the process of finalizing its menu and optimizing itself for takeout and delivery via third-party apps. For now, the best way to get your hands on these healthy, homemade goods is to head over to 1416 Queen St. West, where they are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. You can also find them online.
