Ravenhook BakeHouse brings fresh flavor and community to UMD Farmers Market
By: Isaiah Woodley
With its long lines, Ravenhook BakeHouse is a student favorite at the University of Maryland Farmers Market.
Market Manager Alex Girardot runs the bakery’s stand, which offers a variety of fresh, European-style breads and pastries to UMD students and community members.
“I’ve loved coming to the farmers market since my freshman year,” said Isabella Sterba, a senior at UMD. “I first got Ravenhook’s focaccia and it was really good. I just love their fresh baked goods and how unique they are every time.”
Alex Girardot co-founded Ravenhook BakeHouse with his father, Chris Girardot. Their mission is to bring handcrafted baked goods to the community.
Alex Girardot values his connection with UMD’s students. “We want to bring the freshest food that we possibly can,” he explained. “University of Maryland students and all of our customers deserve a high-quality product.”
For over 10 years, Ravenhook BakeHouse has served its signature items like focaccia, cherry brioche, salted oatmeal cookies, pound cakes and a rotating selection of seasonal pastries.
Alex Girardot believes their success is rooted in attracting workers who love the community. “Our workers love being a part of the community,” he said. “When you work at the farmers market, you see a lot of the same people, which makes us feel connected.”
Even after the UMD Farmers Market ends for the season, Ravenhook BakeHouse will remain open off campus. "We’ll do about 15 markets a week in the summer," Girardot said. "It’s a nonstop operation for us, and we just keep going."
UMD community members can continue to find Ravenhook BakeHouse at the Riverdale Park Farmers Market on Thursdays.