If you’re in Midlothian, Virginia, and you’re looking for a place that feels like home, where the smell of freshly baked bread fills the air and the people are as friendly as can be, then Great Harvest Bread Company is the place to visit.
This bakery is part of a larger family of independently owned and operated bakeries that started in Montana back in the 1970s. Today, Great Harvest has grown to include over 200 locations across the United States, each one keeping true to the core values of quality, community, and delicious bread.
A Taste of History
The story of Great Harvest began with Pete and Laura Wakeman, two college students who started baking bread to help pay their tuition at Cornell University. After graduating, they fell in love with Montana during a hiking trip and decided to stay. In 1976, they opened the first Great Harvest bakery in Great Falls, Montana.
Their bread quickly became popular because of its unique flavor and the use of pure, simple ingredients from local farmers. This success led to the creation of the Great Harvest franchise in 1978, with the second bakery opening in Kalispell, Montana.
The Great Harvest Way
Great Harvest is not your typical franchise. Unlike many other franchises that follow strict rules, Great Harvest encourages each bakery to be unique. They believe in creating neighborhood bakeries that reflect both the Great Harvest brand and the personality of the bakery owner. This approach allows each location to have its own character while still maintaining the high standards of quality and customer service that Great Harvest is known for.
The company’s philosophy is simple: Be Loose and Have Fun, Bake Amazing Bread, Run Fast to Help Customers, Create Strong & Exciting Bakeries, and Give Generously to Others. This philosophy guides how they run their bakeries and how they interact with their communities.
The Heart of Great Harvest: The Bread
At the core of Great Harvest is its bread. They use wheat from Montana’s Golden Triangle, which is considered one of the best sources of wheat in the world. This wheat is freshly milled in each bakery every day to ensure that every loaf has the best flavor and nutrition possible. Unlike mass-produced bread, Great Harvest’s bread is made with simple ingredients and no shortcuts. The result is a loaf that tastes better and is healthier than what you might find in a grocery store.
More Than Just Bread
While bread is the star at Great Harvest, their bakeries offer much more. They have become cozy spots where you can enjoy a variety of treats, including:
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Breakfast sandwiches
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Cafe beverages
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Sweets and pastries
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Hot and cold sandwiches
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Fresh salads
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Hearty soups
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Nutritious grain bowls
Each item is made with the same care and attention to detail as their bread, ensuring that every meal is satisfying and delicious.
The Midlothian Location
The Great Harvest Bread Company in Midlothian, Virginia, is a local favorite. Here’s what you need to know:
Address: 13541 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian, VA 23113
Hours of Operation:
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Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
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Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
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Sunday: Closed
It’s a place where neighbors meet and friends gather. The bakery offers a warm atmosphere where you can enjoy your favorite treats or simply grab a loaf of fresh bread to take home. The staff is friendly and always ready to help you choose the perfect bread or sandwich.
Community Involvement
Great Harvest bakeries are known for their involvement in local communities. They often take part in local events and support neighborhood initiatives. This commitment to community is part of what makes each Great Harvest location feel like a part of the neighborhood rather than just another chain store.
Customer Experiences
Customers rave about the quality of food at Great Harvest Bread Company. One visitor from Florida described their bacon, egg, and cheese on sourdough as “one of the best breakfast sandwiches I have ever had!”. Another loyal customer shared that they drive over an hour to get their freshly baked breads and muffins, noting that “The breads taste like homemade… and they have many varieties too.”.
A Taste of What’s on Offer
While the menu may vary, some popular items at Great Harvest locations include:
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Dakota bread
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Roast Beef Sandwich
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Almond Butter Banana Crunch Sandwich
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Pecan Chicken Salad Sandwich
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Cheddar Garlic Loaf
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Cheese Garlic Rolls
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Cinnamon Chip Challah
Many locations also offer coffee and espresso drinks, smoothies, and even frozen coffee treats to complement their baked goods.
Great Harvest Bread Company in Midlothian, VA, is more than just a bakery; it’s a gathering place where people come together over delicious food and warm hospitality. With its rich history, commitment to quality, and focus on community, Great Harvest has become a beloved part of many neighborhoods across the country.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, stopping by Great Harvest is a great way to experience the best of Midlothian’s community spirit and taste some of the best bread you’ve ever had. Don’t forget to check their operating hours before you visit, and prepare your taste buds for a treat!
Sources: greatharvest.com, yelp.com
Header Image Source: greatharvestnorthville.com
