Trish LoPiccolo, the proprietor of Sandusky’s recently inaugurated downtown bakery, believes in meeting essential needs for success. It’s this belief that inspired her to christen her establishment “Knead Bread and Baked Goods,” a name chosen not only for the pun on kneading bread but also to symbolize her aspiration to fulfill a deeper human desire – joy.
“Life can be challenging, and many of us grapple with various struggles,” remarked LoPiccolo. “Amidst the daily grind, genuine joy can be elusive. When you savor something delicious and freshly baked, it’s like a dance of joy in your mouth! It transports us to a different time.”
LoPiccolo’s commitment to preserving history is evident in her bakery venture. After months of painstaking renovation, she transformed the premises of the former Kenny’s Quality Restaurant at 10 S. Elk Street into her bakery. From refinishing floors to revamping the stove, she personally oversaw most of the restoration work.
“As a resident of Sandusky for the past four years, I believe in investing in the community,” LoPiccolo emphasized.
Besides offering an array of bread, donuts, cinnamon rolls, and other baked treats, LoPiccolo sought to honor the city’s heritage. Adorning one of her walls are photographs from the 1800s, capturing the bustling streets of downtown Sandusky with horse-drawn carriages. Among these images are snapshots of the old Kenny’s restaurant and a tribute to the last known downtown bakery – Colclough’s Bakery.
Colclough’s, situated on the first block of South Elk Street’s east side, was renowned for its specialty pastry, the Bismarck donut, which still evokes fond memories decades later. LoPiccolo’s decision to recreate this delicacy after discovering its popularity reflects her dedication to preserving local traditions.
Roger Williamson, a longtime Sandusky resident, reminisces about Colclough’s and its iconic Bismarck donuts from his youth in the 1960s. He views the establishment of a new downtown bakery as a boon for the community, underscoring the integral role of small businesses in downtown revitalization efforts.
LoPiccolo’s journey into baking commenced in 2022 when she successfully baked cinnamon rolls for a family gathering. Despite her initial lack of baking experience, she gradually honed her skills and began selling her creations over a year ago, initially operating out of establishments like the Sandusky Diner drive-through and Patrick’s Parkside Meats before acquiring her own space.
While donuts are her current bestsellers, LoPiccolo takes particular pride in crafting sourdough bread, nurturing a sourdough starter named Grace for over two years. Her personal struggles, including a period of incarceration due to alcohol-related offenses, inform her vision for the bakery as a sanctuary for individuals battling similar challenges.
With a heart for community and a commitment to authenticity amidst the digital age, LoPiccolo’s bakery aims to provide more than just baked goods. It strives to be a tangible refuge, a place where stories are shared, and connections are forged.
“I owe my success to the unwavering support of my community, family, and loved ones,” LoPiccolo acknowledged gratefully. “Sandusky holds a special place in my heart, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to its vibrancy.”
Knead Bread and Baked Goods will welcome customers from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or until sold out) on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or until sold out) on Saturdays.