Vancouver’s beloved Nemesis Coffee is expanding its footprint again, this time giving its popular in-house bakery concept, Dope Bakehouse, its very own home in North Vancouver. This move signifies the growing success of Nemesis’s culinary offerings and brings a dedicated high-quality bakery experience to a new community.
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Key Takeaways:
- Nemesis Coffee’s Dope Bakehouse launches its first standalone location.
- The new bakery is situated at 650 Mountain Highway in North Vancouver.
- Led by classically trained pastry chef Kevin Lucas, the bakery promises innovative pastries and viennoiserie.
- The space features a large production kitchen, seating, and unique design elements.
Expanding the Nemesis Universe
Nemesis Coffee began as a single coffee shop in Gastown but has steadily grown into a significant player in Metro Vancouver’s coffee scene. Following recent expansions like a new location in Surrey and plans for an upcoming Coquitlam outpost, the company is now focusing on elevating its acclaimed Dope Bakehouse program.
Dope Bakehouse, initially established at the Nemesis Polygon location, quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional, visually stunning baked goods. The decision to create a dedicated space underscores the demand and potential the team sees in this concept.
A Dedicated Space in North Vancouver
The new Dope Bakehouse will occupy a 3,000 sq. ft. space at 650 Mountain Highway in North Vancouver. This location is designed not just as a retail spot but also as a significant production facility, featuring a kitchen alongside 15 seats for patrons and an impressive 24-foot ceiling.
The design firm Sml Studio Architecture is behind the space’s look, which is described as “inspired by re-interpreted nostalgia.” Anticipate design elements that evoke the textures and colours of baked goods, with curves mimicking viennoiserie and a glossy bar reminiscent of butter.
Assortment of colorful gourmet pastries from Dope Bakehouse
The Culinary Vision and Team
At the helm of Dope Bakehouse is Kevin Lucas, a classically trained pastry chef from Brittany, France – the birthplace of the famous kouign-amann. Lucas brings a wealth of traditional French technique, refined through his experience in various esteemed kitchens.
Nemesis founder and CEO Jess Reno highlighted the organic growth of the bakehouse concept: “We first named our in-house bakery program Dope Bakehouse at our Nemesis Polygon location… and it really took off beyond our imaginations. It was then we knew we had something really special.” Reno added, “It’s now the right time to give Dope its own home.”
Lucas will collaborate with Nemesis executive chef Mielye Mitchell and executive sous chef Lina Serrano to “push the boundaries” of what a modern bakehouse offers.
Interior view of the new Dope Bakehouse location with seating and counter area
On the Menu: What to Expect
The standalone Dope Bakehouse promises a mouthwatering selection of items made fresh on-site. The menu will span signature viennoiserie, seasonal pastry creations, and even focaccia sandwiches.
Anticipate unique offerings such as a Mango Coconut Rice Pudding Danish, a Hochija Strawberry Danish, and a Bacon Smoked Cheese and Fermented Honey Croissant, among others.
Naturally, the bakery will also uphold Nemesis’s reputation for excellent coffee, featuring an exclusive Nemesis blend available only at the North Vancouver location.
Close-up view of flaky pastries and viennoiserie from Dope Bakehouse
The Spirit of Dope Bakehouse
Jess Reno describes Dope Bakehouse as the “playful, younger sibling to Nemesis,” embodying a “tongue-in-cheek spirit.” The goal remains consistent with the Nemesis brand: to create inspiring spaces through exceptional food, drinks, design, music, and community.
Beyond the edible offerings, look out for potential capsule drops of Dope Bakehouse merchandise, following Nemesis’s trend of engaging with customers through unique branded items.
An exact opening date for the North Vancouver Dope Bakehouse is yet to be announced, but the anticipation is building for this exciting addition to the North Shore community and Vancouver’s vibrant food scene.
Selection of baked goods and pastries on display at Dope Bakehouse
This new venture solidifies Nemesis Coffee’s expansion strategy, leveraging the popularity of its Dope Bakehouse concept to create a dedicated destination for pastry lovers. Stay tuned for the official opening date.
For more local food news and discoveries, explore related articles on Dished Vancouver.
