The dream of Macrina began long before our first bakery opened its doors in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood in 1993. Founder Leslie Mackie’s passion for artisan baking was sparked decades earlier, shaped at the California Culinary Academy, and refined as she explored traditional bread-making in France and Italy. Working under acclaimed chefs Lydia Shire and Susan Regis, and later at Grand Central Bakery, she transformed her vision into a beloved neighborhood café. From those intimate beginnings — just six employees serving a community eager for fresh, hand-formed bread and pastries — Macrina has grown into a regional presence with six bustling cafés and our goods in nearly a thousand local supermarkets and restaurants.

Today, we remain guided by Leslie’s vision and our mission “to enrich our communities through the joy of artisan baking.” We champion local farmers, sourcing organic heritage wheat and other sustainably grown ingredients. Each loaf is crafted with care and delivered throughout our region, including by several zero-emission vans. Through thoughtful contributions, we nourish not only our customers but also many neighboring non-profits whose values align with ours. We invest in our people, embracing diversity and providing pathways for growth, so every voice helps shape who we are. In every loaf, in every café, the dream of Macrina continues to grow, flourish, and inspire.