Tucked into the heart of Paonia, Paonia Bread Works is a beloved small-town bakery and café dedicated to the craft of naturally leavened bread. Founded in 2015 by Chris Jacobson, the bakery was created with a simple mission: bring exceptional fresh bread to the communities of Western Colorado.

At Paonia Bread Works, organic flours and locally sourced ingredients are transformed through the slow magic of sourdough fermentation. Each loaf is naturally leavened with native yeasts and given a long fermentation, creating bread that is deeply flavorful, easier to digest, and rooted in traditional baking methods.

Alongside their signature sourdough breads, the bakery also produces hand-crafted bagels, pizzas, comforting soups, and a rotating selection of creative baked goods—including gluten-free offerings. Every item reflects a commitment to quality ingredients, thoughtful technique, and the simple pleasure of real bread made with care.