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Detroit’s oldest sourdough rye bakery was founded in 1924.
Stanley Vasilauski arrived in Detroit from his Lithuanian homeland
with his wife and a pail of precious sourdough “STARTER”. Upon
discovering that rye breads available to Detroit of that era generally
contained less than 20% rye flour. Stanley was confident that his
sourdough rye breads would be preferred over the conventional, “light
Weight” rye breads. The Vasilauski’s are now gone, however, their
bakery still offers these outstanding breads which made the Chamberlain
bakery a Detroit landmark for over seventy years. Chamberlain breads are
crafted with Stanley’s original sourdough “STARTER” and recipes.
Premium quality rye and wheat flours are especially whole ground and
harvested from consistently choice farmlands of North American States
and Providence’s. Chamberlain’s open hearth brick oven and dedicated
veteran staff continue to ensure our traditional baked goods feature
quality, natural fiber and distinctive crusts, which compliment our
various breads.
As of April of 2002, Chamberlain Bakery became a part of
Alexander & Hornung, Inc., a half-century old European style sausage
and ham company, also in Detroit. Owned and operated by Bernie Polen and
Tom Eckert, Chamberlain moves into the new millennium with our
priorities in tact. We will endeavor
to maintain the authenticity and integrity of our famous breads, while
improving consistency and service.
Bernie and Tom plan new offerings in the near term. We have made
our French Rolls available to our wholesale customers. On special order
for now, Raisen-Egg Bread Rolls, Pumpernickel Rolls and Sour Dough Rolls
are available. Coming soon; A wonderful multi grain bread and we have
had excellent success in the early stages of a braided egg bread.
Chamberlain sourdough rye breads are prepared in four different
styles, each of which will appeal to your various taste sensations. A
treasured family preparation is “SWASHED” onto the bread prior to
baking which enhances the crust’s texture and sheen. Our powerhouse, 95%
rye loaf, goes by the name of “Old Country”. Our most popular,
85% rye is simply known as the “Sour” and Is a very versatile bread.
You can slice off the top of this “Sour” loaf, scoop out the inside
making It a bowl that can be filled with a veggie or bread dip, which
makes a unique presentation on your party table. We offer a 50% rye
called “Half Rye”, which appeals to more delicate and somewhat
lighter rye bread taste. Our pumpernickel features a bit courser ground
rye flour to enhance its notes of texture and impress you with its
honest differences of taste and chewiness. Like Stanley Vasilauski
before them, They ensures that no dairy products are allowed in their
Chamberlain sourdough rye breads.
Complimenting Chamberlain’s sourdough rye breads, They offer a snowy
golden raisin bread which Is outstanding for making a festive
French toast. If you love French bread and are searching for the
crust, flavor and texture of those traditional long, skinny loaves in a
large slab sandwich master sized loaf, search no longer. We bake a
Fluffy French bread our patrons say is made “just right”, and if you
like to make your own garlic bread, start with Chamberlain French.
Chamberlain baked breads have been featured in various Detroit
and Metropolitan newspapers since It’s 1924 opening and garnered
favorable mention in various area guide books and magazines. An article
in Esquire magazine insightfully describes the delight of a fine
character wine complimented by a wholesome and hearty slice of
Chamberlain sourdough rye bread.
Bernie and Tom have expanded their involvement in the food
business based on the type of company and the product offerings.
Chamberlain fits in perfectly. They also have added Brookside Foods,
Bosell Foods and Gateway Specialty Foods, all in Cleveland. They offer
us the opportunity to provide A wider variety of meat products, salads,
sauerkraut balls and a number of brokered lines. They also have a new
concept of quick serve restaurant in Grand Rapids, The Original Panini
Grille Company in the Woodland Mall, Cafes In The Woods.
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