Blackmarket Bakery, widely recognized as one of Orange County’s top bakeries, has closed its Costa Mesa and Oceanside locations.
In a social media post announcing the closures, which happened late last week, executive pastry chef-owner Rachel Klemek wrote, “It is with a sad heart that I have to announce our bakeries in Costa Mesa and Oceanside have unfortunately closed.” The message also noted that its North Park location is “still operating so we hope to see you there.”
When asked for comment, Klemek provided a written response. “We loved our time at the Camp in Costa Mesa. I’m so grateful for the amazing customers, great neighbors and dedicated staff who made our 12-plus years there so delightful,” she said.
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Klemek welcomed the Costa Mesa space in January 2013 at the Camp, an outdoor retail and dining center. The bakery quickly turned into a destination known for its breads, ranging from classic sourdough to Dutch crunch, as well as pastries and signature caramel-laced Black Widow Tart. Her Oceanside location opened in April 2024.
The Culinary Institute of America-trained baker also taught classes at the Costa Mesa space. Following the news of the closures, fans of the bakery chimed in with memories.
“Rachel, I will always remember how much you taught me in your baking classes. I’m sorry to hear of these closures. I wish you the best in your future endeavors. You are the best,” wrote Bonnie Hamilton Baker.
Another fan, Yolanda Tran, noted, “Thank you for teaching me how to bake back when you did night classes in Costa Mesa!! You changed my life forever.”
In 2019, Klemek gained an even wider audience after winning Food Network’s “Chopped” competition series.
No reason was given as to why Blackmarket Bakery ceased operations in Costa Mesa and Oceanside. The closures come three years after Blackmarket Bakery shuttered its Santa Ana bakery in 2022.
The San Diego Blackmarket Bakery in North Point, which can be found at 4686 30th St., remains open.