Lutra Cafe and Bakery has inked a deal for a 2,600-square-foot space at the American Tobacco Campus in Durham. It will open by the end of the year at 312 Blackwell St., Noell Building #102, according to a release.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Lutra Cafe and Bakery to the American Tobacco Campus,” Eli Bell, CBC Real Estate’s director of leasing and asset management, said in the release. “Lutra built a real following through their pop-ups and quickly became a local favorite — it feels like bringing in a friend the whole neighborhood already loves. Their creativity and energy are a perfect match for ATC, and we know folks will be lining up bright and early for coffee and those unforgettable buns.“
Lutra Cafe and Bakery, founded by chef Chris McLaurin, has become popular for its sweet and savory buns since the brand launched in January 2024. It has been operating at farmers markets, pop-ups and coffee shops in the area as McLaurin searched for a brick-and-mortar spot.
“The pop-ups have been great. It’s been a wonderful way to meet guests and create regulars, but creating a space that is our own feels really special,” McLaurin told What Now Charlotte. “Being able to make it feel like Lutra and feeling warm and welcoming to our guests is really important.”
McLaurin told What Now Charlotte that he grew up in Chapel Hill and recalls visiting the American Tobacco Campus for meals and entertainment. When he saw the opportunity to join the development, he took the space.
“American Tobacco feels like the perfect home for Lutra. We’re so excited to be a part of their thoughtful and local mix of businesses,” McLaurin said in the release. “Whether you’re popping in for a quick treat, a to-go breakfast or want to enjoy yourself with a leisurely brunch, Lutra will be situated to easily meet your needs — and with lots of easy parking.”
The counter-service cafe will feature a large dining room and an outdoor patio and will be open for breakfast and lunch daily. On weekends, customers can expect a larger full-service brunch offering.
Cafe offerings will include sandwiches, bowls, biscuits and gravy, eggs benedict, salads and soups. Lutra Cafe and Bakery will also be partnering with Little Waves Coffee Roasters to offer a full coffee program.
McLaurin said they will be placing emphasis on the bakery aspect of the business, offering an expanded selection of baked goods at the brick-and-mortar. Offerings will include sweet and savory buns, soft pretzels, cookies and breads like sourdough and brioche loaves.
“At our heart, we’re a bakery and a lot of our options come from that space,” McLaurin said.
McLaurin carries an extensive background of training and experience, including training at L’Academie de Cuisine and experience working in Washington, D.C. restaurants like Komi and Little Serow. He has also worked at local spots in the Triangle like Rose’s, Bar Lusconi, Picnic, La Place and Poole’side Pies.
Eventually, McLaurin hopes to spread throughout the Triangle, with potential for more cafe locations down the line.
