Project Description

Andrew Bayker runs Charlottesville-based Althea Bread with his wife Susan. They started the bakery in 2018 and operate it out of their cottage in the woods in southern Albemarle County. Although still in the developmental stages, their business is making a huge impact, particularly through their commitment to the local grain economy by sourcing from local organic grain growers. Althea, which means “wholesome and healing” in Greek, is a member of the Common Grain Alliance (CGA), a non-profit whose mission is to connect farmers, millers, bakers, and eaters in the Mid-Atlantic. Althea Bread is sold at Charlottesville’s City Market, Farmer’s in the Park in Charlottesville, and the IX Winter Market in Charlottesville. They also offer a bread subscription through their Community Supported Bakery Program. Andrew has a degree in biology and worked in biology research at the University of Virginia. Following his love of food, he began working at bakeries, including two years at Marie Bette in Charlottesville, before starting Althea.