Brightside Bakeshop: Baking Days Brighter For Nashvillians
2020, I’d like a do-over.
To say it’s been a hell of a year, is the understatement of the century, especially for those of us who live in Nashville. First, deadly tornadoes swept through Nashville in early March causing severe devastation in East Nashville, Germantown, and other surrounding areas. Nashvillians were pulling together supplies and volunteer efforts to rebuild the city when less than two weeks later our beloved city shut down because of COVID-19 leaving many people and businesses wondering how they were going to make it.
Seriously, can we catch a break?
It’s all about perspective, right? Over the last two months, I, along with the rest of the world, have been challenged to remain positive and optimistic despite the current state of affairs. For someone who thrives on social interaction, travel, and dining out, it has been hard, REAL HARD. Let’s face it, we are all surviving, not thriving. One day while I was scrolling through Instagram, I stumbled upon Brightside Bakeshop. Cinnarolls, croissants, and strata, oh my! It was one of those times where I wish my phone had a scratch and sniff option available. I hadn’t seen pastries this gorgeous since I was in Paris. Without hesitation, I placed an order. Sunday couldn’t come quickly enough.
Brightside Bakeshop is a small artisan bakery with two locations (Nations and East Nashville) in Nashville, Tennessee. Andrea Borchers had a childhood dream of owning a bakery. As she says on her website “ There was something special about being greeted with the smell and taste of freshly baked treats. It always evoked a simple kind of happiness… a happiness I longed to share with the world.”
Like any entrepreneur with passion, vision, and determination, Borchers began brainstorming and envisioning what type of bakery she wanted to open. She became like a sponge, soaking up knowledge from whoever and wherever she possibly could. To refine her technique, Borchers took classes at San Francisco Baking Institute and Le Cordon Bleu Paris. In October 2016, Brightside Bakeshop opened in Borchers’ home kitchen.
What a year it was.
Waking up well before sunrise, Borchers would begin baking and fulfilling wholesale orders all while maintaining her full-time job in retail marketing. As if that wasn’t enough, when she got home from work, she would start prepping dough and materials for the next day. And did I mention she’s married? Yes, she found time to see her husband and family, too. Seriously, I’m just exhausted thinking about it.
After many long, chaotic days and several sleepless nights, Borchers quit her full-time job, and she and her husband Brad first retail bakeshop at the Shops at Porter East.
Want to get your hands on some of these perfect pastries? Don’t worry, I’ve got your covered. All of the delicious details are listed below!
When is Brightside Bakery Open?
Currently, both bakeshops are open for contactless delivery Wednesday-Sunday from 8:00 am-Noon.
How do I place an order?
The order window opens up at 3:00 pm for the next day. Click HERE and to see the menu and to place your order. (Note: the link does not work unless the ordering window is open)
How do I find out about daily specials?
Make sure you follow their Instagram account to see what specials they will post for the following day. While there are some staples like croissants, cinnarolls, and sunshine rolls, there are certain specialty items that are released on certain days. For instance, I am OBSESSED with their Almond and Oatmeal Cream Pie Croissants (yes, you read that correctly). Once you have your first bite, life will never be the same.
Do I really have to place my order right at 3:00 pm?
This isn’t Ticketmaster, you don’t have to be in a waiting room ten minutes prior with three laptops poised a ready. However, as soon as the order window opens, I am online. Hell, I’ve even gone as far as placing a calendar reminder. Pastries are serious business. When there are specials like the Oatmeal Cream Pie Croissant or the Raspberry Almond Bostock, they inevitably sell out.
Quarantine has been hard for everyone. Maybe you are looking for ways to spread cheer to others or perhaps you just need a little treat. Look no further than Brightside Bakeshop as they have been baking my days brighter! I truly hope you enjoy their pastries as much as I do!
Until Next Time!
Tariff: Pastries range from $3.50-$5.50 with coffee and tea available for $3.00.
Can’t Miss: Even though I hate to give away my favorites, I really want you all to experience the deliciousness that is the Oatmeal Cream Pie Croissant. After one bite you will be hooked. Some of my other favorites are Strawberry Cheesecake Danish, Lemon + Lavender Brioche, Chocolate Croissant, and the Churro Croissant. If you want to add something savory to your pastry box, I love the breakfast strata and the combinations change daily.
Potential Pass: I have been a fan of all the pastries I’ve tried. While there are some that I gravitate to more than others, you really can’t go wrong with anything you order.