Bakery Archives - Ascot News

Albion locals have something warm and buttery to look forward to this August. A new neighbourhood bakery called Time & Temp is preparing to open in the much-loved former Brewbakers site – and while the space may be small, the flavours promise to be anything but.

Read: Sprout Artisan Bakery Expands with New Albion Facility

Tucked into a compact 45-square-metre space on Sandgate Road, Time & Temp is the passion project of Manning Young and Palita Cai, two hospitality talents whose journey began in Melbourne.

Manning Young and Palita Cai (Photo credit: Time & Temp/Instagram)

Young, once a public servant studying for a PhD, found his calling in coffee after landing a role at the iconic Proud Mary, where he eventually became a roaster. Cai, a trained chef, fell head over heels for baking while working at cult-favourite Falco.

Now back in Brisbane, the duo are pouring their energy into Time & Temp. The menu will feature around nine pastries each day, including a cardamom bun, sweet and savoury danishes built around seasonal produce from local growers, and a few rotating favourites. While the pastry lineup will change with what’s fresh and available, expect carefully crafted flavours and a strong commitment to quality.

On the drinks side, Young will kick things off with batch brew coffee using beans from Proud Mary, before branching out to feature international roasters – including his friend at Timbertrain in Vancouver. He also has plans to run cupping sessions, offering a chance for coffee lovers to explore new beans and connect with the local caffeine crowd.

Most of the bakery’s footprint will be taken up by the kitchen, but there will be a serving counter inside and a few casual outdoor seats, perfect for enjoying a pastry and a cup of coffee in the morning sun.

Read: Doughcraft Albion: Easter Hot Cross Buns and European Delights

For those who still miss Brewbakers, Time & Temp aims to carry on the spirit of local craft and warm service – with a fresh twist from two people who truly love what they do. For updates on the opening date, menu sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes looks, check out their website or follow them on Instagram @timeandtemp_.

Published 30-June-2025

Brewbakers, the beloved sourdough haven that has warmed the hearts and kitchens of Ascot for three decades, is set to bid a bittersweet farewell.

The family-run bakery, known for its handcrafted bread, pastries, and cakes, has been a cherished part of the community, filling homes with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goodness and creating countless shared moments of joy around the table.

Owners Richard and Caroline Cotton, who founded the bakery in 1992, have cited a critical skill shortage and narrow profit margins as the reasons behind the difficult decision.

This closure marks the latest in a string of bakery departures from Brisbane’s culinary landscape, including the recent winding down of several establishments under BCN Events Group. Brewbakers, known for its dedication to sourcing local organic flour from Kialla Mills and its unwavering commitment to artisanal techniques, has long been a cherished institution along Sandgate Road in Albion.

In 2019, the bakery made headlines with its innovative sourdough hot cross buns, a testament to its passion for pushing the boundaries of traditional baking. Richard Cotton’s journey into baking began serendipitously in 1990 when he stepped in to help a short-staffed bakery and discovered a lifelong love for the craft.

However, rising costs have increasingly squeezed the bakery’s profitability, making it challenging to sustain operations. Caroline Cotton emphasised the impact of a competitive market, with the emergence of several new bakeries in recent years exacerbating the difficulty of securing skilled bakers.

A steady stream of loyal customers has continued to frequent the artisan bakery, expressing their sadness and appreciation for the Cottons’ dedication to quality and community. The owners have been transparent with patrons about their inability to renew the lease and the upcoming closure on 15th of June.

The announcement has sparked an outpouring of emotions, with many customers sharing stories of cherished memories and a deep connection to the bakery. Some have been patrons since childhood, highlighting the enduring impact of Brewbakers on the local community.

Published Date 04-June-2024

Tag: Bakery

Albion’s Former Brewbakers Site Finds New Life with Time & Temp

Albion Bakery Brewbakers to Close Amidst Skills Shortage and Rising Costs