Owner Jon Levett along with master baker and head chef Jamie LeBrash make a point of changing things up on a regular basis to build excitement for new flavour experiences.

"We're known for changing our menu a lot," says Jamie. "We reflect the crazy ideas in our heads and I think that is what makes us special."

It does, indeed, make them stand out. Customers know the baking duo bring in seasonal and local flavours with pizzazz, having monthly themes such as "Fairy Tales" and the "Seven Herbs of Spring."

This is a place to go to get great homemade bread and baguettes, from the buttermilk loaf like grandma made, to red fife and white sourdough, seedy crusted and the scrumptious garlic parmesan. Also front and centre are their various sweets. There are cinnamon buns, tarts, butter bacon tarts, scones and so many things in between all made with a British-Canadian flare to reflect Jon's heritage.

When you enter The Crusty Bakers you'll see the daily specials - including sandwiches made from their breads - along with a showcase of Ontario cheeses, smoked sausages such as double smoked Polish and German Hunter. Don't forget to check out the frozen pies and tourtière; mushroom and stilton, elk, rabbit and duck confit to name just a few.

Jon and Jamie say they have customers from Ottawa to Toronto, including a big fan from New Zealand. "People like to take our products on the plane. All our breads freeze well," says Jamie. They also sell products at markets in Gananoque, Kemptville and Kanata.

They carry Brew Tea Co., Ontario drinks like Hall's Apple Market cider and County Soda, spice blends from Montreal, jams, crackers, ketchups and hot sauces, Forbes Foraging Co. products as well as things like pickled walnuts and chili miso.

Learn more about The Crusty Bakers by visiting their Facebook and Instagram pages. You can call them at 613-215-0347 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The shop is located at 16 Prescott Street in Old Town Kemptville, right across from the Kemptville Public Library.

The Crusty Bakers are a part of the newly-launched Fresh Baked Adventures tour. 

Feature photo: The Crusty Bakers are owner Jon Levett and Jamie LaBrash, master baker and chef, shown here with some tasty breads.

Reprinted with permission from United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office.