A great bakery doesn’t just feed its neighborhood. It becomes part of the community—and part of people’s routines.
At Verzênay, an artisan French bakery in Chicago, building a connection to the community has always been about more than pastries. Co-founders Arshiya and Aqeel believe in opening their doors—both to guests and to the greater community.
That’s looked like many things over the years:
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Serving at local markets like Green City Market
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Inviting students into the kitchen
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Speaking at youth entrepreneur programs
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Supporting local events that go beyond “brand visibility” For Verzênay, it’s about being present.
From the Counter to the Classroom
High school students have come into the kitchen through local programs—curious about how the bakery runs, how it all began, and the choices behind each step. Their curiosity is a reminder of why the doors open—not just to guests, but to possibility.
Partnerships with organizations like Ignite and Pilot Light have been especially meaningful—whether it's through job readiness programs, food education in schools, or showing students what small business ownership can look like.
It doesn’t take a big platform to make an impact. Just intention, consistency, and a willingness to share what you know. to make an impact. Just intention, consistency, and a willingness to share what you know.
A Visit from Paul Kahan
Not every day brings a well-known chef into the shop. But one did.
Chef Paul Kahan visited Verzênay quietly. He tasted, paused, and then said simply: “Keep doing what you’re doing.”
For a small, independently owned French bakery in Lincoln Park, that kind of encouragement carries real weight.
Staying Rooted, Staying Available
Verzênay continues to participate in farmers markets, support local sourcing, and donate handcrafted pastries to events that align with their values. It’s not splashy work—but it’s deeply felt.
Because community isn’t a line in a mission statement. It’s a rhythm. A relationship. A reason to keep the doors open.
Come Say Hello
Whether you’re visiting for a tart, a tea, or a slow Saturday morning—just know you’re stepping into something bigger than a bakery.
Plan your visit → verzenaychicago.com/contact