Editor’s note: In its May 15, 2024, edition, the Sun Times News included a special “Discover Tecumseh” section. It contains articles describing many of the businesses and community life in this charming town. We’re running the articles online and encourage you to add a trip to Tecumseh to your list of fun things to do this summer.

Established by Arlo and Alisyn Brandl in 2016, Tecumseh Bread and Pastry has become a beloved bakery downtown. The couple, both professional bakers, started their business after moving from Traverse City, seeking to create something of their own in a community recommended by Arlo’s parents. “We had moved from Traverse City, where Alisyn was born and raised, hoping to just start something of our own after having been burned out in the industry for a while,” Arlo explains.

The bakery is highly praised for its artisan approach, using locally grown, organic grains to produce hand-made croissants and sourdoughs. Arlo adds, “It’s hard to find sourdough, and I don’t believe any other bakery mills flour at the capacity we are.” The shop’s grain mill is readily visible in the back of the store.

In addition to its regular offerings, Tecumseh Bread and Pastry embraces a seasonal approach to its pastries. “We bake seasonally as well. Like rhubarb just started happening, so we’re using rhubarb in our pastries,” says Arlo. “Everything we do here is from scratch.” This focus on fresh, quality ingredients over year-round availability reflects the bakery’s commitment to excellence.

Over the years, the bakery has forged a deep connection with the community. Arlo notes the generational continuity among their customers, saying, “What’s really, really kind of nice is that some of the young couples that started shopping with us eight years ago now have their kids coming in with them.”