Larsen’s Bakery (8000 24th AVE NW), a Ballard-area staple for Scandinavian pastries since 1974, has new ownership.
Brenda Gage and her husband, a pilot for Alaska Airlines, purchased both the bakery and its building from the original owner, Poul Larsen, for $4.6 million in late August. Larsen’s and two other businesses are operating in the building: Beast and Cleaver, and The Fresh Fish Company. The building used to be home to a Thai restaurant—Wild Orchid—before Larsen’s took over its space in 2012.
Gage told My Ballard she does not plan to close or change the name of the bakery, and she intends to keep the business operating much as it has for the past 50 years.
“I have absolutely no intention of doing anything different with the building, tenants, or bakery aside from breathing new energy and enthusiasm into this next decade. I think the fish shop and butcher shop are absolutely dreamy co-tenants, and I love to shop there myself!”
Gage said that her close friend lives in the area, which was a big pull to purchase the bakery. “When I found out Poul was selling, it felt like a dream come true to be closer to my bestie, purchase a bakery I adore, and up the game of sweet treats we offer at our cafes! I am truly humbled and excited to embark on this journey, and I think Ballard is such a wonderful area!” Gage said.
Gage, who also owns a group of local cafés, said her near-term plans include updating the storefront with new furniture and flower pots and making some payroll upgrades. She also said she hopes to continue the leases of other businesses in the building, including The Fresh Fish Company and Beast and Cleaver.
Photo: Google Image Capture Oct. 2024