Business Details
11 Years
experience
Artisan Bakery in Nanaimo | Hearthstone Artisan Bakery
Hearthstone Artisan Bakery was founded in late December 2015 with a commitment to crafting exceptional baked goods that surpass local alternatives. Our philosophy centers on using locally sourced, organic ingredients to create handcrafted breads, pastries, and cakes that reflect our dedication to quality and sustainability. Every product is made in-house from scratch, utilizing time-honored techniques and partnerships with regional producers like True Grain flour mills and Paradise Island cheese. We prioritize environmental responsibility by minimizing our carbon footprint through local sourcing and community engagement, including donating unsold items to the Boys and Girls Club of Nanaimo.Our team of skilled bakers combines expertise with passion, earning recognition in local media and a loyal customer base that consistently rates our products as 5-star worthy. Featured on Food Network's *Baker Sisters* and YTV's *The Zone*, we take pride in being named Nanaimo's Best Desserts in 2017 while maintaining our focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.
Services
Artisan Breads
Custom Cakes
Pastries
Specialty Breads
Sourdough
Seasonal Offerings
Wedding Cakes
Bakery Delivery
Gluten-Free Options
Bread Workshops
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We use 100% locally sourced organic flours and ingredients from trusted regional producers.
- All products are made in-house from scratch with traditional baking methods.
- We actively support community initiatives through food donations to local organizations.
- Awarded Best Desserts in Nanaimo for 2017 by local publications.
- Consistently rated 5-star by customers for quality and service excellence.
What people say
5-star worthy products
Best Nanaimo bars
Outstanding bakery
Amazing sausage rolls
Perfect wedding cakes
Services
Artisan Breads
Our artisan breads are made using locally milled organic flours and traditional fermentation processes. Each loaf undergoes 2-3 day production cycles to develop complex flavors and superior texture. Available in classic and seasonal varieties like Cheddar Pull-Apart and Sourdough, these breads showcase our commitment to quality through partnerships with regional producers like True Grain flour mills.
Custom Cakes
We create made-to-order cakes for weddings, celebrations, and holidays using premium ingredients like Vanilla Blossom vanilla and Frederich's honey. Options include 6-100 serving sizes with customizable designs, fillings, and icings. Our decorators specialize in both traditional buttercream and fondant finishes, requiring minimum 3-day notice for standard orders and one-week for complex designs.
Pastries
Daily baked pastries feature all-butter croissant dough and locally sourced ingredients. Menu includes savory options like Tuscan Ham Croissants and sweet treats like Cinnamon Buns and Coconut Macaroons. Our seasonal fruit Danish and house-made Strudel highlight regional produce, while classics like Nanaimo Bars remain customer favorites with rotating flavor variations.
Specialty Breads
Rotating specialty breads showcase innovative flavor combinations and heritage techniques. Current offerings include Tea Loaf with spiced apple or raspberry tea infusions, and White Chocolate Pistachio Babka. These limited-time creations utilize local ingredients like Paradise Island cheddar and Frederich's honey, available while seasonal supplies last.
Sourdough
Our signature sourdough uses a 3-day fermentation process with a house-maintained levain starter. Made with 90% untreated white flour and 10% whole grain rye, this bread offers enhanced digestibility and shelf life. Daily variations include Cranberry Walnut, Roasted Garlic Parmesan, and Olive Tapenade, reflecting our commitment to traditional baking methods.
People
Paul Aboud
Owner
Paul Aboud founded Hearthstone Artisan Bakery in 2015, bringing decades of baking expertise and a passion for local sourcing. Under his leadership, the bakery has become a community staple known for quality and innovation, earning regional awards and media recognition while maintaining commitment to sustainable practices.
Questions
What makes your bread different from supermarket brands?
Our breads use 100% locally sourced organic flours and undergo 2-3 day fermentation processes for superior flavor and digestibility, with no factory-prepared ingredients.
Do you offer gluten-free options?
We provide select gluten-free items like Coconut Macaroons and have dedicated preparation areas to accommodate special dietary needs.
How far in advance should I order a custom cake?
Basic cakes require 3 work days notice, while wedding or complex designs need minimum one week to ensure proper planning and execution.
Are your products available for delivery?
We offer local delivery within Nanaimo for bulk orders and special events through our online ordering system and bakery app.
Do you sell gift cards or baking classes?
Gift cards are available in-store, and we periodically offer sourdough and pastry workshops taught by our expert bakers.
What sustainability practices do you follow?
We minimize waste through food donations, use compostable packaging, and source 85% of ingredients from Vancouver Island producers to reduce environmental impact.
Reviews (4)
Carolyn L.
Jul 21, 2021
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We came here to get freshly baked bread. My friend said it was really good. I had the almond croissant, palmier and coconut macaroon instead. They were delicious, even when I had them the next day. There were so many choices that I wished I could try everything! But alas, stomach space is limited. I will definitely stop by here again when I am back in Nanaimo just so I can try the Nanaimo bar.
Located within a strip mall, there is plenty of parking in the lot.
Located within a strip mall, there is plenty of parking in the lot.
Emily S.
Jun 11, 2019
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Their sign says they have the best Nanaimo Bars in Nanaimo, and that is true! I am from Seattle area and have been eating homemade Nanaimo bars every Christmas since I was a child. These were amazing treats and I can't recommend this place enough!
Richard D.
Oct 06, 2018
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On vacation looking for a place that has the now standard breakfast. This place has get breads. Had the ham and cheess croissant and it was GREAT!!! Also got the Maple apple danish and it was also good. If you as re looking for a place that has grwat bread in the mornings, this is it.
Lisa T.
Sep 12, 2018
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Breakfast. Artichoke and goat cheese galette for me. Tuscan ham and havarti croissant for him. The blueberry scones looked yummy too; more blueberries than scone. And hubby was tempted by the jalapeo and cheddar scone. So we bought them for tomorrow. Also took home a peanut butter Nanaimo bar for dessert later. Fabulous find. Very close to our temporary home at Living Forest Campground so we'll be making another visit! Or 2. This bakery was featured on Food Network Canada, show called The Baker Sisters. Season 1, episode 5, the sisters "headed to Nanaimo B.C. for the city titular snack
