Pilgers' Pastries Closes in Downtown Scranton

Owner cites rising costs of utilities, packaging, rent, and insurance as factors for shutting down the bakery.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Pilgers' Pastries, a popular bakery in downtown Scranton that sold baked goods and custom orders, has permanently closed its doors after operating for over 3 years. The owner, Tamara Pilger, announced the closure on the business's Facebook page, citing the increasing costs of running the shop as the primary reason for the decision.

Why it matters

The closure of Pilgers' Pastries is a reflection of the challenges small businesses face in the current economic climate, with rising costs for essentials like utilities, rent, and supplies making it difficult to maintain profitability. This is a common issue affecting many independent businesses, especially in the food and retail sectors.

The details

Pilgers' Pastries, located on Adams Avenue in downtown Scranton, offered a variety of baked goods including brownies, cookies, cream puffs, small cakes, and macaroons. The bakery also fulfilled custom orders for wedding cakes, party trays, and pies. Tamara Pilger opened the business in June 2022 after attending culinary school at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.

  • Pilgers' Pastries opened in June 2022.
  • The bakery permanently closed its doors in late February 2026.

The players

Tamara Pilger

The owner of Pilgers' Pastries, a bakery that closed in downtown Scranton after operating for over 3 years.

Pilgers' Pastries

A bakery in downtown Scranton that sold baked goods and custom orders, such as wedding cakes and party trays, before permanently closing in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I want to thank you all for your support of my small business for the past 3-plus years. It has meant the world to myself and my family.”

— Tamara Pilger, Owner (Facebook)

The takeaway

The closure of Pilgers' Pastries highlights the ongoing challenges facing small businesses, particularly in the food and retail sectors, as they navigate rising costs for essential expenses like utilities, rent, and supplies. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting local independent businesses in our communities.