Our Story

Four decades of artisan baking in the heart of Washington, DC

1978 Est.
Artisan bread loaves fresh from the oven Fine pastries on display
Founded 1978 Where it all began

A Dream Baked into Reality

Bread & Chocolate was founded by Theodore Manousakis and Chef Ernst Moser with a vision as clear as it was ambitious: to introduce elegant European artisan bread and fine Viennese and French pastries to the Washington, DC community.

Their first location in Old Town Alexandria featured both production facilities and a welcoming café. The response was extraordinary. Within just two years, Bread & Chocolate had expanded to eleven locations across DC, Maryland, and Virginia, along with a thriving wholesale operation.

By 1984, we had built a 20,000-square-foot production facility in Alexandria employing over 200 people — a testament to what passion for craft and community can build.

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What We Believe

Our Values

The principles that guide everything we bake and serve

🌾

Artisan Quality

Every item is crafted from scratch using time-honored European techniques and the finest ingredients. No shortcuts, no compromises — just honest, exceptional food.

🏘️

Community First

We are deeply rooted in our neighborhoods. Our guests aren't customers — they're friends and neighbors. We've watched generations grow up enjoying our pastries, and that means everything to us.

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European Heritage

Washington, DC is a vibrant, international city. We embrace that diversity by bringing authentic Old World baking traditions to our menus — from Viennese tarts to Parisian croissants.

🤝

Warm Hospitality

From the moment you walk in, you're welcomed like family. Our staff are trained to make every visit feel personal, warm, and memorable — because that's how we'd want to be treated.

♻️

Responsible Sourcing

We work with trusted suppliers who share our commitment to quality and sustainability — from the flour in our bread to the coffee in your cup.

✨

Daily Freshness

We bake fresh every single day. Our pastry cases are restocked from the oven each morning so that every croissant, every tart, every loaf is at its absolute best.

History

Our Journey Through the Years

Milestones that shaped who we are today

1978

The Beginning

Theodore Manousakis and Chef Ernst Moser open the first Bread & Chocolate in Old Town Alexandria, bringing authentic European artisan baking to the DC region for the first time.

1980

Rapid Expansion

Within two years of opening, demand is so strong that Bread & Chocolate expands to 11 locations across DC, Maryland, and Virginia, plus a wholesale distribution operation.

1984

Grand Production Facility

A 20,000-square-foot production facility opens in Alexandria with over 200 employees, cementing Bread & Chocolate as a cornerstone of DC food culture.

1990s

Gourmet Evolution

The business evolves to focus on prepared gourmet foods for wholesale clients, including airports, sports venues, and shopping centers across the region.

Today

Two Beloved Locations

Now serving from our West End/Downtown (2301 M St NW) and Chevy Chase (5542 Connecticut Ave NW) locations, welcoming new generations of guests while honoring long-time friends.

Warm café interior Baker at work Freshly baked pastries
Come Say Hello

We'd Love to See You

Open daily 7 AM – 5 PM at both DC locations

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