Fans of the Nutmeg Bakery & Cafe in San Diego's Scripps Ranch had to say goodbye to their beloved brunch spot, but only temporarily—owners have confirmed the business is relocating to Poway, a short distance away. The new address is 13771 Danielson Street, where the doors will open for a soft launch on Wednesday, April 24, from 7:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Nutmeg's relocation is a strategic response to the rising operational costs that are proving to be too hard to currently maintain at the original location, FOX5 San Diego reported.
"We've always prided ourselves on providing our customers with the highest quality food made from fresh and local ingredients; that model is starting to be less sustainable in the current environment," Drew Hoffos, co-owner of the bakery, told FOX5 San Diego. Their financial struggle comes notwithstanding last year's feature on the Food Network's hit show "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives," which, despite boosting patronage, failed to definitively offset the spiraling costs of ingredients and operation essentials like utilities and to-go containers.
The venue change has been in the works as current economic pressures, such as inflation and rising wages, challenge small businesses. Nutmeg Bakery & Cafe hopes to turn the page, enticing customers to the new site where they'll be welcomed with complimentary beverages on opening day. Details of the event were shared on Nutmeg's Facebook page, inviting locals to join the celebration with free Agua Fresca and house coffee.
The anticipation is nearly over for loyal customers who can't wait to get their hands on Nutmeg's signature Bananas Foster French Toast and La Havana Panini. "Every single input costs more, utilities, insurance, bacon, butter," Hoffos lamented via FOX5 San Diego, highlighting just how narrow the operating margins have become for this local favorite. Through this next chapter, Nutmeg Bakery & Cafe is determined to continue serving its renowned fare without skimping on quality or passing on the financial strain to its clientele.
While the Scripps Ranch spot is no longer serving, avid brunch-goers can still visit Nutmeg's other location in Sabre Springs until the Poway venue officially opens.
