Larsen’s Bakery, a beloved Scandinavian bakeshop in Seattle, has new owners—but its traditions will carry on.
Brenda Gage and her husband purchased the bakery and its building for $4.6 million, closing the deal on August 27, their 20th wedding anniversary, The Seattle Times reported.
Larsen’s Bakery was founded in 1974 by Poul Larsen, whose story began in Copenhagen, where he started baking at just 14 years old as an apprentice to Denmark’s finest pastry chefs, according to the bakery’s website.
“I promise Poul: I don’t want to do anything but right by your name,” Gage told the outlet.
Gage, who has fond memories of visiting Larsen’s Bakery with friends and her children, is no stranger to the food and beverage industry.
Two years ago, she purchased Cafes Inc., a group of seven restaurants including Issaquah Cafe, Woodinville Cafe and Mukilteo’s Speedway Cafe. She told the outlet she is drawn to established businesses needing new energy and a fresh vision. When Larsen’s went up for sale, she jumped at the chance to take it on.
Although several parties showed interest, Larsen chose to move forward with Gage after reviewing her business plan. He also encouraged her to purchase the entire building, leading her to form Gage Commercial Property LLC in December. That same month, she created Larsen’s Legacy to acquire the bakery, according to business filings.
Gage plans to preserve the bakery’s traditions while making a few updates. Her priorities include upgrading payroll systems, refreshing the interior with new furniture and adding flower pots outside the shop for a welcoming touch.
Looking ahead, Gage hopes to offer Larsen’s baked goods at her other cafes and eventually open a satellite location for the bakery.
“But I’m not ready to do that yet. I’ve got decades ahead of me. I don’t ever, ever intend on selling the cafes nor Larsen’s. I plan on turning 100 and having people feed me pie,” Gage told the outlet.
What Now Seattle reached out to Gage. This article may be updated.
