Known by Haligonians for its homemade breads, breakfast sandwiches and a variety of sweet treats, Smith’s Bakery dates back over 90 years. Having started in a garage, its tried-and-true recipes allowed the business to become the oldest independently owned bakery in Halifax. Although the longstanding business is now closed after decades of operations, sweet memories remain of the local bakery.

Where it all rose

Smith’s Bakery rose from the 1920s, when the Smith family began operating a bakery out of their garage. Exactly who established the family-owned business is a bit of a mystery. However, according to the Halifax Public Library, Earle J. Smith was an early operator. After years of selling baked goods from a garage, the Smith family officially incorporated Smith’s Bakery in 1932 and opened their first storefront on Gottingen Street in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

The bakery operated from its original location until it relocated to Agricola Street in 1961. Since the beginning, Smith’s was known for its pies, squares and cakes, all made from scratch.

Family recipe 

The Smith family owned the bakery for decades until selling it in the 1980s. After changing hands a few times, the business was purchased by Frank and Carolyn Evans in 2004. When they were ready to retire, they decided to keep the bakery in the family and passed it on to their son Dennis and his wife Tara.

Within the first year of taking over, Dennis and Tara made several operational and branding changes. They simplified product pricing, upgraded payment systems, improved team efficiencies and added a mobile-friendly website. The space also got a refresh with updated furnishings, signage with a modernised logo and new staff shirts. However, they did not mess with the recipes customers knew and loved. Some menu items were phased out, but they continued to use the original recipes that had been baked by the Smith family since starting the business. For decades, everything was made from scratch, with real ingredients and no preservatives. The Evans family even used the same mixer purchased by the Smiths.

The final slice

After operating Smith’s Bakery for five years, Dennis and Tara announced the closure of the longtime business in July 2019. Many customers shared their sadness in the comments of the brand’s Instagram post about the closure, as well as fond memories of celebrating birthdays, weddings and other special occasions with Smith’s treats. One user commented: “I used to live next door and I’d start so many days at Smith’s! It’s currently my children’s favourite place to get a treat when we’re in town! I’ll miss this place! Thanks for all the great treats and memories.”

In media coverage about the closure, Dennis Evans explained that their building had been sold and there simply weren’t enough funds to relocate. He had the business listed for sale for $80,000, hoping someone would take over. However, Smith’s Bakery officially closed on August 10, 2019.

Note: A representative of Smith’s Bakery was unavailable for an interview; the above article is based on third-party research.

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