Beloved West Michigan Bakery and Restaurant to Close After Nearly 90 Years

West Michigan is saying goodbye to another iconic eatery.

Just recently we shared with you that South Haven's Sherman's Dairy Bar, an ice cream shop much loved by locals and visitors alike, is closing after more than 60 years in business.

Now, a bakery downtown South Haven that's been in operation for 86 years has announced its closure.

As a South Haven native, I'm so sad to learn that Golden Brown Bakery is closing. Growing up there I loved heading in to get my favorite - a powdered sugar donut. My mom has always been a fan of their long johns. The restaurant's comfort food is delicious too!

News Golden Brown Bakery is shutting down was shared to Facebook on Monday:

After 86 years of serving Southwest Michigan and the city of South Haven, the owners of the Golden Brown Bakery, Dave and Barrie Braschler, have decided the iconic bakery and coffee shop will close its doors for the final time at the end of 2024. Known for its freshly baked goods and pastries, classic breakfast and lunch offerings, and a friendly atmosphere, the closure marks the end of an era that made the bakery a landmark staple of downtown South Haven.

The owners say they have made the personal decision to retire.

Golden Brown Bakery was founded in 1938 by two sisters Nona MacKenzie and Blanche Rosenberger. Originally called Mackenzie's bakery, it began as a roadside bake stand between Covert and South Haven. Eventually, the business expanded and opened at it's current location downtown South Haven. It became not just a place for doughnuts and cookies, but a local institution and gathering place for the community.

Dave, who has owned and operated Golden Brown Bakery for 41 years says,

Our bakery has been more than just a business. It’s been my home, a community gathering place, and a source of pride We are grateful for the incredible support and loyalty from our customers over the decades. While it’s bittersweet to come to this realization and say goodbye, we feel blessed to have been a part of this town’s story... We hope our customers will join us in these final months to celebrate the legacy of the bakery and share one last cup of coffee or treat.

Golden Brown Bakery customers are sharing their memories and sadness about the closure. Many have celebrated birthdays, weddings, holidays, and other special occasions with the bakery's treats.

Diane writes,

OMG….this is so sad. My husband has bought me a birthday cake from here for the last 36 years….nobody makes buttercream frosting like this bakery!

Jennifer says,

Another piece of south haven gone. So sad!!

Karen shares,

I love the Golden Brown Bakery and the Braschler families. Oh how I will miss the bakery as the goodies go hand in hand with so many memories.

The announcement shares that the bakery will shutter at the end of the year.

If you'd like to stop in for your favorite baked goods, they suggest you call  (269) 637-3418 a few days ahead of time and before 2p.m. to reserve your order.

I'll miss you Golden Brown Bakery!