Big Al’s Bakery
“The Modern-Day Muffin Man”
If there are restaurants or businesses that truly deserve to be called “community staples,” Big Al’s Bakery might just top the list. Everyone in town knows Big Al and his bakery – so much so that he could easily be considered the “The Modern-Day Muffin Man.” The only difference is he does not live on Cherry Lane.
Al originally ran the bakery department at the now-closed Super Valu grocery store. When that chapter ended, he seized the opportunity to open his own bakery. In 2016, Big Al’s Bakery opened its doors, and it has been a cornerstone of Osoyoos and Oliver ever since.
Big Al’s provides residents and local businesses with a wide variety of fresh, homemade baked goods every day – including bread, deli meats, pastries, cakes, and my personal favourite: donuts. As a retired police officer, I’ll admit I was guilty of living up to the stereotype – I absolutely love donuts and have never met one I didn’t like!
During my visit to the bakery, I had the chance to chat with Al himself before he had to get back to baking and deliveries. He told me how much the community has embraced both him and his team. Since opening, they’ve received endless support and kind words from their customers. What started with just seven employees has now grown to a team of 14 to keep up with the ever-growing demand.
When I asked Al about their best-selling item, he didn’t hesitate: “Apple fritters.” They go through more of those than anything else. Cakes and sourdough bread are close runners-up.
I also asked what he believes has made the bakery so successful. His answer? “Hard work.” The team works six days a week, from sunrise to sunset. Everything is baked in-house, and the business is run by passionate people who truly love what they do. They also take pride in using locally sourced ingredients – like dairy from Dutchmen Dairy.
If you’ve never visited Big Al’s, Al recommends you always leave with a fritter – even if that’s not what you came in for. He’s also especially proud of their cakes, which are handcrafted and made with real whipped cream – something that sets them apart from other stores and the cakes they sell.
And don’t forget: Big Al’s isn’t just baked goods. They also offer a hot breakfast and lunch menu featuring omelets, eggs Benedict, pierogies, and other daily favorites. I ordered the eggs Benedict after my chat with Al, and I left full, satisfied – and yes, with an apple fritter in hand.
So next time you’re craving fresh bread, donuts, cakes, or something made with love, stop by Big Al’s Bakery. Fill your basket with fritters and fresh-baked goodness – and tell them Sheldon sent you.
Big Al’s Bakery is located at 6030 Main Street in Oliver, and is open Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sheldon Herman is the author of the international best-selling book The Tortured Traveller: How I Survived The Worst Vacation Ever and has travelled to and eaten in 60 different countries. Neither the writer nor the newspaper received financial compensation for this article; the thoughts and opinions expressed are strictly those of the writer. If you’re a restaurant owner or have a suggestion for one you’d like to see featured, please send an email to [email protected].
