If you’re a grab-and-go breakfast person, downtown’s Loaf Bakery is your stop for flaky, crisp woodfired croissants and scones for breakfast, or grab a savory flatbread and legendary pecan chocolate chip cookie any time of day. Their $4 flatbreads are stocked with fresh veggies for lunch. In addition to their brick-and-mortar location, they're a fan favorite vendor at the Durham Farmers' Market each week.
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Hours:
Monday: Closed Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Sunday: Closed
Loaf Bakery is one of the few places in RTP that sells excellent butter and chocolate croissants. The almond croissants are good as well, though they aren’t made with the traditional French recipe.
The experience, however, comes at a price.
At $4+, the cost feels steep—but it’s not the bakery’s fault; it’s simply the going rate in the U.S. Unfortunately, this pricing makes what is considered a daily staple in France feel like a luxury treat here. For context, a butter croissant in France costs about €1—yes, just one euro...
Pastries are also too expensive, but I guess locals are ok with it.
As a conclusion, I also noticed that the size of the chocolate croissant has significantly decreased...
Bread is also worth the drive.
Katie Hale
Aug 18, 2025
5
Recently moved to the area and stumbled on this bakery. The man who assisted us knew all about the bread and let me explain the meal I was making and helped me pick the perfect loaf. It was delicious, crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. I have been going back every week. Please support them so I can keep eating these heavenly loafs.
Joe P
Jun 1, 2025
5
Unbelievable bakery. The highlight of our two days spent in Durham. Staff was so friendly, the croissants were delectable, but the showstopper was the olive bread with the European butter they sell in the refrigerated case. We'd go out of our way to visit next time we are in the area.
Rebekah May
May 6, 2025
5
Best bakery I’ve found while living in Durham. Creative flavor and texture combinations of nuts, molasses, ginger, fruits, and cocoa are a refreshing substitute for the bludgeoning sweetness I have come to expect from desserts. Always fresh baked each morning with new selections. Pricing is all over the map so I tend to frequent the cookies—usually around a dollar. Every time I go I love the simplicity of pick, pay, walk away, but be aware that there is no seating in the bakery. I recommend sitting by the Carolina theatre.
Raquel Diaz
Apr 21, 2025
5
The baked goods here always shine, everything’s delicious but I wanted to shout out the wonderful staff. You could not ask for a sweeter crew, they’re all true gems. There’s something sweet about working downtown and being in community with these wonderful folx!! Thanks for the carbs and kindness
Camilla Meek
Jan 8, 2025
5
Loaf is the best bakery in Durham and Chapel Hill hands down if you want something closely resembling a French bakery. The croissants are the real deal, the sourdough breads are wonderfully tangy, and their rotating offering of different breads keeps me coming back on different days to try different ones. Highly recommend the polenta loaf. The pastries are great too!
The only feedback I have is that the staff used to be friendlier. I've been a customer for 13 years. I no longer enjoy going to the shop although the product is still great. The woman who seems to be managing the front end has an unfriendly manner to customers and staff. I think with a little adjustment it can be the friendly neighborhood bakery I used to look forward to visiting.
Sue Huynh
Jan 5, 2025
5
Absolutely love this place! The people working were so incredibly kind and gave great suggestions. I got a mushroom cheddar croissant and honestly it's one of the best things I've ever tasted. Can't stop thinking about it!
Will Priest
Dec 13, 2024
5
This place is awesome. Everything we got was exceptional. I 100% agree with all the other reviews that the vibe is awesome too. New go to for anytime we need something fresh baked. Both wish it was closer and glad its not too close at the same time!
