Bay Area/ San Francisco
Published on February 24, 2015
Two Years In On Divisadero, The Mill Celebrates With A Talent Show

Photo: Tim Riley

This spring marks two years since The Mill opened its doors on Divisadero Street. Josey Baker's toast and Four Barrel coffee remain a popular attraction, and on any Saturday morning, the line will still reach from the coffee counter all the way to the door.

We've dug into our archives to refresh our memories on The Mill's evolution, and checked in with Josey to hear what's on the docket for the future, as well as what to expect at tomorrow's anniversary Talent Show celebration

We began coverage of The Mill way back in April 0f 2012, when not much was known about the enterprise aside from the fact that it would have Four Barrel coffee and Josey Baker bread. As a reminder, here's what the space looked like before The Mill moved in: 

(Photo: Andrew Dudley / Hoodline)

In May of 2013, The Mill opened its doors, and we were first on the scene to witness the open floor plan, the built-in shelves, and the famous bread oven. 

(Photo: Andrew Dudley / Hoodline)

A little under a year later, in March of 2014, The Mill completed its parklet, designed by Boor Bridges Architecture and built by contractor Roman Hunt:

(Photo: Nuala Sawyer / Hoodline)

Aside from its physical manifestation, The Mill has also played host to a number events, including a record release party, a writing party,  various art shows, and a sausage fest. Aside from a small oven fire last fall, The Mill continues to grow, but Josey points out that he couldn't have done it alone. 

"It really does take a village," he says."I just feel so grateful to have such a mighty team of badasses in my village. I'd be lost without them." He also acknowledges that this venture would have been impossible without Four Barrel founder Jeremy Tooker, saying he's "eternally indebted" to him.  

In regards to the baking scene, Josey's convinced it's on the up-and-up. "The bread/bakery scene has really evolved over the last few years, and we are going to see more and more amazing new developments in all facets of the process, from farming, to milling, to baking, to the general public's perception, understanding and value of the entire process and everyone involved. "

Future plans for The Mill are still in the ideation stages, though Josey hinted at the possibility of a second location. A second bread cookbook may also be in the works, but all of that is eclipsed by an even more important venture: Josey and his wife are expecting their first child in May. 

Babies, cookbooks and expansion aside, come out tomorrow night to celebrate our local toast joint with a good old talent show. Members of The Mill's staff and extended family will be performing, though there are a number of slots open to the public. The festivities begin at 6pm, and all are welcome.