Today we’d like to introduce you to Loic Autret.
Loic, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Our story is a love story! Yes, we love baking and yes, we love croissants but the love began long before I started baking. Over 20 years ago, my wife, an American college student at the time, came to Paris to finish her studies. Little did we know that this would change our lives forever. Not only did I fall in love with this American but I left the French military and pursued a career in baking because of it. At the time, I didn’t speak English and had to do something I could do with my hands. I loved baking and loved croissants so this seemed like the perfect choice. After marrying my American bride, I moved to the US and began working as head baker at The Four Seasons in Palm Beach. For over 20 years, I mastered the humidity and water to bring the perfect French croissant to South Florida. I am grateful to be opening a French bakery and cafe in downtown West Palm Beach and my dream is to bring friends, family and community together. I am passionate about baking and even more passionate about others. I love people.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Fall in love, move to the US with an American and start baking! This sounds simple! The journey was anything but simple. Even prior to my trip to the US my life prepared me and shaped me into the man I am today. As a deminer and parachutest for the French military, I worked in several UN missions. While serving in one mission I almost lost my life. I spent almost 2 years in a hospital in Paris. Ironically, if I had not had this misfortune, then I wouldn’t have developed my love of life, my passion or met my wife. When we came to the United States not only did I have a new career but I had to learn English, learn new units of measures plus adapt to a new culture. After working for several large companies, I decided that I wanted to bring my creations directly to the people. I began selling my baked creations at the local farmers’ markets. I sublet a bakery and would work after they closed . I finally saved enough money and opened my first bakery with a partner. This partnership dissolved. Try, try again – so the adage goes. My bakery in West Palm Beach finally represents me!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Loic Bakery * Cafe Bar – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Our core business is French baking. We specialize in Viennoiserie… croissants, baguettes, cookies and tarts. We have excellent coffee to accompany the high quality baked goods, plus serve sandwiches, soup and salad everyday. We offer classic French items like quiche plus new favorites like avocado toast and salmon boards. In the afternoons, we offer charcuterie and cheese boards, French wine and beer. Everything is made by hand from scratch. We have huge windows for viewing the team responsible for baking each day.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Short term plans include developing our wholesale business. We wish to provide fresh baked breads and croissants to local businesses. Then, we intend to open a few more locations around the South Florida area.
Contact Info:
- Address: 480 Hibiscus Street Unit 116 (City Palm Lobby)
West Palm Beach, FL 33401 - Website: www.bakeryloic.com
- Phone: 561-570-1425
- Email: bakeryloic@gmail.com
- Instagram: bakeryloic
- Facebook: @loicautretbakery
Image Credit:
Papphotography
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