PDX: Helen Bernhard Bakery

I remember trekking to the bakery once before, I believe to try out their egg nog bread. 

It had not occurred to me to do a review at that time, but they recently passed their century mark, Helen Bernhard having started her home baking business in 1924.

That seemed worth taking a look.

It is essentially a neighborhood bakery, something that used to be much more common. It is nice to have a nearby source for cakes and breads and cookies.

With very reasonable prices for coffee and doughnuts, I suspect they also get a fair amount of morning traffic as people start their day.

We were there on a Saturday afternoon; business was brisk, with many people coming and going and deciding.

We were there right around Easter, so there were a lot of spring-themed goodies. 

I don't know that it makes sense to make it a destination, but if you are in the area (near Lloyd Center), it can be a good stop, and they have their own parking.

Plus, if you find that you would rather have candy than baked goods, Woodblock Chocolate is right across the street. Convenient!

Accessibility: Please note that there are two entrances (both with parking spaces). The doorway with the stairs is on the West. That door announces the "Stair Free Entrance", which is on the East. 

Once inside, it is mainly looking in the cases and choosing, though there are things like breads, rolls, and greeting cards that are self-serve. These should be fairly navigable, though it may be harder when there are more customers.

For dietary issues, they do not offer sugar-free or gluten-free, and even products not made specifically with nuts may still have cross-contamination.

COVID: The shop is not large and there are frequent visitors, which can be a great reason to mask. 

There is some business delivery, and cakes should be ordered ahead if you want customization, but the business is largely drop-in.

https://www.helenbernhardbakery.com/