Maillard Patisserie to close both Baltimore locations

Owner Caitlin Kiehl cites need to 'rest and reset' after 5+ years of running small business

Mar. 17, 2026 at 10:43pm

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Maillard Patisserie, a bakery with storefronts in Baltimore's Hampden and Hamilton neighborhoods, will be closing both locations in early May 2026. Owner Caitlin Kiehl cited the 'bittersweet' decision as she looks to take a step back from the daily grind of running a small business, which she says can be 'mentally, physically and emotionally exhausting'.

Why it matters

The closure of Maillard Patisserie, a beloved local bakery, reflects the challenges many small businesses face in maintaining operations, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision by the owner to prioritize her own wellbeing also highlights the personal toll that running a small business can take.

The details

Maillard Patisserie, known for its artisanal baked goods, has been a fixture in the Baltimore community for over 5 years. However, owner Caitlin Kiehl has decided to close both the Hampden and Hamilton locations in early May 2026. Kiehl cited the need to 'take some time off to rest and reset and prioritize time with friends and family' after the demands of running a small business 24/7.

  • Maillard Patisserie will close both locations in early May 2026.

The players

Maillard Patisserie

A beloved local bakery with storefronts in Baltimore's Hampden and Hamilton neighborhoods.

Caitlin Kiehl

The owner of Maillard Patisserie, who is closing the bakery's locations to take a step back and prioritize her own wellbeing.

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What they’re saying

“The reality is, this work can be mentally, physically and emotionally exhausting. Owning a small business is a 24/7 job and after 5+ years I need to take some time off to rest and reset and prioritize time with friends and family.”

— Caitlin Kiehl, Owner, Maillard Patisserie

The takeaway

The closure of Maillard Patisserie is a bittersweet reminder of the immense personal and professional toll that running a small business can take, even on a beloved local institution. This decision by the owner to prioritize her own wellbeing underscores the need for greater support and resources for small business owners in Baltimore and beyond.