News Summary
The culinary scene in Santa Ana enhances with the introduction of blue corn masa sourdough bread crafted by local baker Karlo Evaristo of 61 Hundred Bread. This artisanal bread, characterized by its vibrant color and aromatic flavor, has gained popularity among diners, especially when served at Le Hut Dinette. Evaristo’s bakery has seen rapid growth, adapting to the increasing demand for this unique loaf that blends traditional techniques with innovative flavors. The journey showcases the resilience of small businesses in the pandemic’s aftermath.
Santa Ana, CA – The culinary scene in Santa Ana has been enriched by the recent introduction of blue corn masa sourdough bread, a unique creation from local baker Karlo Evaristo, who operates the cottage bakery 61 Hundred Bread. This artisanal bread, characterized by its deep violet color and shiny, butter-glazed exterior, has captivated diners and garnered attention on social media platforms, especially TikTok and Instagram.
Evaristo’s blue corn masa sourdough was first featured on the menu at Le Hut Dinette, a nearby restaurant run by executive chef Ryan Garlitos. Garlitos incorporated the bread into his dishes, stating that it has become a staple offering, with each table assured to order it. To complement the bread’s rich flavors, the restaurant serves it with a special compound butter made from beef tallow, confit garlic, and lemon.
The bread’s aroma evokes the familiar scent of cooking blue corn tortillas, while its flavor profile combines earthy notes with a delightful sour tang. Diners are encouraged to enjoy it plain or toasted with butter, adding to the experience of tasting this innovative loaf.
The Growth of 61 Hundred Bread
61 Hundred Bread, named after the ZIP code of Evaristo’s hometown, Bacolod, has quickly gained popularity among locals. The bakery is known for its long lines, with eager customers often finding the bread sold out by midday. Initially, Evaristo produced just 1-2 loaves a day, but as demand surged, he expanded production to 120 loaves daily by converting his living room into a makeshift bakery.
After the conclusion of a cooking career that started in fine dining, Evaristo began his journey into baking sourdough during the pandemic. Despite entering the baking realm during a time when many turned to the craft as a hobby, Evaristo had already begun teaching himself how to bake in October 2019. His rapid rise to success was aided by restaurant critic Brad Johnson, who raised awareness of the bakery, leading to a substantial waitlist for orders.
Development of the Blue Corn Masa Sourdough
The creation of the blue corn masa sourdough was a labor of love for Evaristo, taking two years to perfect. He began experimenting with dried blue corn before incorporating nixtamalized blue corn masa into his recipes, resulting in the rich, unique bread that has garnered acclaim. His experiences in his family’s restaurant located on Negros Island in the Philippines influenced his approach to flavors and techniques.
Throughout his culinary education, Evaristo attended schools in both the Philippines and Napa, California, which provided a solid foundation for his baking skills. The current culinary landscape, challenged yet thriving after recent events, serves as a backdrop for Evaristo’s transformation from fine dining chef to successful bakery entrepreneur.
Locations and Impact
61 Hundred Bread is located at 728 N. Poinsettia St., Santa Ana, CA, with Le Hut Dinette situated right next door at 730 Poinsettia St. N, Unit A, Santa Ana, CA. Evaristo’s journey illustrates the resilience of small businesses emerging from the pandemic, while the popularity of his blue corn masa sourdough stands as a testament to the evolving food landscape and the ongoing passion for artisanal baking in the community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Adia Reignites Fine Dining Experience in Orange County
Culinary Diversity in Santa Ana: A Budget-Friendly Adventure
Exploring Santa Ana’s Affordable Culinary Scene
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: 61 Hundred Bread
- OC Register: 61 Hundred Bread Opening
- Eater LA: Le Hut Dinette Opening
- Orange Coast: Baker on the Rise
- Modern Luxury: Best Bakery in Orange County
- Wikipedia: Baking
- Google Search: Artisan Baking
- Google Scholar: Artisan Baking
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baking
- Google News: Baking Trends
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
