A Lakeland bakery with a large local following has caught the attention of the James Beard Foundation.
Born & Bread Bakehouse was named a 2026 semifinalist for Outstanding Bakery by The James Beard Foundation on Jan. 21.
The James Beard Foundation, founded in 1986 to honor cookbook author and teacher James Beard, champions a more sustainable, equitable and diverse food culture through education, advocacy and recognition programs. Its awards are often called the “Oscars of the food world.”
Born & Bread’s history in Lakeland
Born & Bread was opened by Jen Smurr in the spring of 2015 at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market, selling rustic loaves of country bread and baked goods. Her first day, Smurr said she sold out within 15 minutes…