News Summary
Blackmarket Bakery has closed its locations in Costa Mesa and Oceanside, leading to a wave of sadness among loyal patrons. Founded by pastry chef Rachel Klemek, the Costa Mesa branch operated for over 12 years while the Oceanside location opened recently. Fans have shared their memories on social media, commemorating popular baked goods like the Black Widow Tart. Despite the closures, Klemek plans to open a new location as part of the Freeman Collective project, ensuring Blackmarket Bakery’s presence in the community continues.
Costa Mesa and Oceanside
Blackmarket Bakery has officially closed its locations in Costa Mesa and Oceanside, as announced by executive pastry chef-owner Rachel Klemek through social media channels. This decision has drawn attention and sadness from the community, who have flocked to the bakery for years to enjoy its renowned baked goods.
The Costa Mesa location operated for over 12 years, having opened its doors in January 2013 at The Camp, a popular outdoor retail and dining center. The Oceanside branch, which opened in April 2024, was a more recent addition to the bakery’s portfolio. Despite the closures, the North Park location in San Diego continues to serve customers, providing a lasting link to Klemek’s celebrated baking.
Community Response
Background on Blackmarket Bakery
Founded by Klemek, who is an alumnus of the Culinary Institute of America, Blackmarket Bakery has made a name for itself with its diverse array of breads and pastries. In 2019, Klemek gained significant recognition by winning an episode of Food Network’s “Chopped,” which further solidified the bakery’s reputation within the culinary community. Prior to these closures, Blackmarket Bakery closed its Santa Ana location in 2022, signaling a trend in the changing landscape of the business.
Future Plans
While the closures mark a significant change for Blackmarket Bakery, Klemek is not stepping away from the business entirely. Plans are underway to open a new location as part of the Freeman Collective project in Oceanside, indicating that the bakery may be aiming to adapt and expand despite the recent challenges.
Location Information
The remaining San Diego location is situated at 4686 30th St. As Blackmarket Bakery navigates these changes, it will continue to serve a loyal customer base and remain a beloved part of the local culinary scene. The business has consistently focused on quality and community, elements that have always set it apart in the competitive bakery market.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- OC Register: Blackmarket Bakery Closes
- Wikipedia: Costa Mesa, California
- What Now: Blackmarket Bakery Planning New Location
- Google Search: Blackmarket Bakery
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bakery
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.
