Athens Bakery Gains National Attention as One of the South's Best

Independent Baking Co. wins praise for its bread and pastries, including being named Georgia's best by Food & Wine.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Independent Baking Co., a longtime favorite bakery in Athens, Georgia's Five Points neighborhood, is gaining national attention after being called one of the best bakeries in the South. The small, locally-owned shop is known for its croissants, Cinnamon Morning Rolls, and other baked goods that regularly sell out on weekends.

Why it matters

The recognition from national publications like Food & Wine and Southern Living highlights the quality and craftsmanship of this independent, community-focused bakery, which has built a loyal following among Athens residents and visitors alike. It also showcases the vibrant food scene in the city, which has become a destination for artisanal bakers and other culinary entrepreneurs.

The details

Independent Baking Co. supplies bread to many Athens-area restaurants, meaning diners may have already tasted its loaves without realizing it. Fan favorites include potato rosemary focaccia, Morning Rolls, Pain aux Raisins, and sandwiches such as brie and fig. Some menu items are only available on certain days, and the bakery encourages customers to check online before visiting.

  • Independent Baking Co. has been a longtime favorite in Athens.
  • In 2022, Food & Wine named it the best bread in Georgia.
  • In 2025, Southern Living included it among the Best Bakeries in the South.

The players

Independent Baking Co.

A small, locally-owned bakery located in the historic Five Points neighborhood of Athens, Georgia, known for its high-quality bread and pastries.

mainstreet.backroads

An Instagram account that recently called Independent Baking Co. one of the best bakeries in the South.

Food & Wine

A national food and wine magazine that named Independent Baking Co. the best bread in Georgia in 2022.

Southern Living

A regional lifestyle magazine that included Independent Baking Co. among the Best Bakeries in the South in 2025.

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The takeaway

Independent Baking Co.'s national recognition as one of the South's best bakeries highlights the quality and craftsmanship of this independent, community-focused business, and showcases the vibrant food scene in Athens, Georgia, which has become a destination for artisanal bakers and other culinary entrepreneurs.