Buffalo, October 18, 2025

Blue Eyed Baker, a beloved bakery in Buffalo, is set to open its second cafe in the Elmwood Village neighborhood. This new location will create 15 jobs and meet the rising demand for quality pastries from young professionals. With extended hours and outdoor seating, the cafe aims to provide a cozy atmosphere while promoting local ingredients. Owner Sarah Thompson attributes this expansion to the bakery’s growing popularity and the vibrant community in Buffalo, showcasing a commitment to enriching the city’s culinary scene.

Blue Eyed Baker Announces Expansion to Second Cafe in Buffalo’s Elmwood Village

Buffalo, NY – Blue Eyed Baker, a popular local bakery renowned for its artisanal pastries, has unveiled plans to open a second cafe in the vibrant Elmwood Village neighborhood. This expansion will create 15 new jobs and respond to increasing customer demand, particularly from young professionals seeking quality baked goods in a convenient location.

The new cafe will occupy a prime spot in Elmwood Village, an area known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It aims to extend operating hours beyond the original location’s schedule, offering breakfast, lunch, and evening options to cater to a broader clientele. Outdoor seating will enhance the dining experience, allowing patrons to enjoy their purchases in the fresh air during warmer months.

Owner Sarah Thompson attributes the growth to the bakery’s rising popularity, driven by the appeal of handmade pastries made with locally sourced ingredients. The original Blue Eyed Baker cafe, established several years ago, has built a loyal following through its commitment to fresh, high-quality items like croissants, scones, and custom cakes. This expansion marks a significant step for the business, reflecting confidence in Buffalo’s evolving food scene.

Job Creation and Economic Impact

The addition of 15 jobs underscores the bakery’s role in bolstering the local economy. Positions will include bakers, baristas, and front-of-house staff, with an emphasis on hiring from the Buffalo community. This move aligns with broader trends in the city’s hospitality sector, where small businesses are expanding to meet post-pandemic recovery demands. Elmwood Village, already a hub for independent eateries, stands to benefit from the influx of employment opportunities and increased foot traffic.

Local economic analysts note that such expansions contribute to neighborhood vitality by supporting related services like delivery and supply chains. For Blue Eyed Baker, the new site will also allow for greater production capacity, potentially increasing output of signature items without straining the original kitchen facilities.

Features of the New Location

Visitors to the second cafe can expect an inviting atmosphere that mirrors the cozy charm of the first. The menu will feature the bakery’s core offerings, including seasonal pastries and coffee pairings, with possible additions tailored to the Elmwood Village demographic. Extended hours—potentially from early morning through late afternoon or evening—will accommodate diverse schedules, making it a go-to spot for remote workers, families, and evening strollers.

Outdoor seating arrangements will include weather-resistant tables and chairs, promoting social distancing and al fresco dining in line with current preferences. The bakery plans to incorporate sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly packaging, to appeal to environmentally conscious customers in the area.

Background on Blue Eyed Baker

Founded by Sarah Thompson in Buffalo’s West Side, Blue Eyed Baker started as a small operation focused on scratch-made baked goods. Over the years, it has gained recognition for its innovative flavors and community involvement, participating in local events and farmers’ markets. The decision to expand stems from consistent sales growth and feedback from regulars who have expressed interest in more accessible locations.

Elmwood Village was selected for its alignment with the bakery’s ethos— a walkable, artistic district that attracts a young, professional crowd. This demographic has shown particular enthusiasm for the bakery’s healthier options, like gluten-free and vegan pastries, which will remain staples at the new site.

The expansion comes at a time when Buffalo’s small business landscape is thriving, with many establishments adapting to new consumer habits. Blue Eyed Baker’s growth exemplifies how local flavors and community ties can fuel sustainable development in the region.

Timeline and Community Engagement

Construction and setup for the new cafe are slated to begin soon, with an anticipated opening in the coming months. The bakery intends to engage the community through pop-up events and tastings leading up to the launch, fostering excitement and loyalty. This approach has proven effective in past initiatives, helping to integrate the business into Buffalo’s fabric.

As the project progresses, updates on hiring and menu previews will keep locals informed. The expansion not only promises more delicious options but also reinforces Blue Eyed Baker’s commitment to enriching Buffalo’s culinary offerings.

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Author: HERE BUFFALO