Phoenix's culinary scene faced a shake-up this month as several establishments shut their doors for good. Notable among the closures were six locations of a popular European-style bakery, Kneaders Bakery & Cafe, known for its freshly baked bread and pastries. Unexpectedly turning off their ovens, Kneaders closed their outlets in Ahwatukee, Avondale, Chandler, Gilbert, Surprise, and Tempe. AZ Central reported that an employee from the Chandler location attributed the closures to the stores failing to meet the company's regional expectations.
While Kneaders has left a void in several communities, locals can still find five remaining Valley locations along with two more in Yuma. Fans of their signature breads and sandwiches can visit their outlets in Gilbert, Glendale, Mesa, Queen Creek, and Yuma. This contraction in Kneaders' footprint in the metro Phoenix area highlights the volatile nature of the food and beverage industry, which is not unfamiliar with both sudden openings and abrupt closures.
According to a report by Phoenix New Times, Phoenix residents also said their goodbyes to some eateries ranging from Korean-style corndogs at Myungrang Hotdogs in Glendale to inventive pizzas by Mr. Moto Pizza, which closed its only Arizona outpost. Brunch enthusiasts also took a hit with the closure of Brekky/Brunch in Chandler and Tempe's Netta Cheta's.
For fans of the local craft beer scene, the loss of Taproom 120 and The Beer Research Institute in Mesa marked the end of an era. The former closed after a memorable weekend of punk and metal concerts, while the latter ceased operations after a decade of brewing. Although Taproom 120's eclectic vibe and The Beer Research Institute's Southwest-influenced pub grub will be missed, local hopheads can still pull up a stool at downtown Mesa's B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, which continues to serve craft beers in a lively setting.
