LuAnn’s Bakery & Café began as a beloved farmers market stand in Ellington, Connecticut, founded by LuAnn Howley, whose homemade recipes and personal warmth made her baked goods a local favorite. Her stand became a community staple—known for its classic cookies, cupcakes, and small-town charm.When Josh Virkler, an Ellington native and experienced food entrepreneur, joined the team, he helped transform LuAnn’s vision into something even bigger. Under Josh’s leadership, the bakery opened its first brick-and-mortar café in 2017, followed by a drive-thru location and a dedicated gluten-free marketplace and production hub. In 2025, LuAnn’s expanded again, opening a new café in Stafford Springs.Today, Josh proudly carries forward the spirit and tradition that LuAnn started, crafting baked goods that bring people together, made fresh each day with care and community at their core.
We work with real farmers and a network of independent suppliers who provide fresh groceries. This allows us to keep supply chains short, treat everyone fairly and reduce unnecessary waste.
