Bobbyjo's Story
If you had told me back in 2011 that one day I’d be a co-owner of Starry Lane Bakery, I probably would have laughed. Back then, I was fresh out of Culinary School and just about to start my career in the food industry.
Growing up in Nebraska, I didn’t personally struggle with food allergies or dietary restrictions, but I was exposed to them early on. My grandmother had a gluten sensitivity, and growing up, I saw firsthand how difficult that was to manage. In the 90s, food sensitivities and allergies were not widely discussed or understood. It was easy for the food industry to dismiss them, and there were almost no accommodations available in restaurants.
After high school, I left Nebraska behind and moved to sunny San Diego. While attending The Art Institute in Mission Valley, I was talking with a friend from back home. She was explaining how her daughter had developed a severe egg allergy. That she was struggling to find safe foods for her, and that there was so much to learn about managing her condition.
Not long after our chat. We had an open lab during an Artisanal Breads Course, where we had the freedom to bake whatever we chose. I decided to attempt my first egg-free bread. There wasn’t a lot of support to be found among my fellow bakers. Many of them, including my instructor, thought it was a waste of time. But I knew how isolating it was for my grandmother, and I’d heard how exhausting it could be to find safe foods from my friend. I was determined to give it a try, even if I had to bring in my own ingredients.
The truth is that not many people take food allergies seriously, especially in the culinary field. I’ve found this especially upsetting, as sharing food is an experience that brings us all together, regardless of our culture. These experiences stuck with me, and I knew that wherever my career took me, I would continue to be an advocate for people with dietary restrictions. It’s what has fueled my commitment at Starry Lane ever since.
In the Fall of 2011, I had the opportunity to interview for a part-time job at Starry Lane. The bakery was still located in Santee, CA, when I first met Jaime. She was still in the construction phase of the bakery, and I remember we sat on fold-out chairs next to an open ladder and a pile of paint cans during the interview. The moment she started sharing her story, I heard what this bakery would mean to thousands of people living with food allergies, and I knew I had found my place.
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of watching guests walk in for the first time, cautious and unsure, and walk out smiling because they felt safe, welcomed, and understood. Here, food allergies don’t define anyone. Here, everyone belongs. I could go on for days sharing the special moments I have witnessed and been a part of. Or telling you the whole Sarry Lane Bakery story, sharing all my fond memories, but that would fill up an entire book.
Starting in 2024, I became co-owner of Starry Lane. I’m generally a private person, which probably has something to do with growing up in a small town. However, I knew that we needed to share our story with more of the world. If that meant getting out of my comfort zone and putting myself and my story out there, so be it. Since then, I have stepped out from behind the scenes of the bakery. Which is why recently you may have seen me up front, out representing the bakery, or maybe on our social media.
This bakery has been my home for more than a decade, and I could never imagine leaving it. I’m sure it has felt like a second home to many of you as well. Now, as a co-owner, I’m excited for what’s next. Taking the care and safety we’re known for and sharing it with more people, in more places, than ever before, so no one has to miss out on the simple joy of a shared treat.
Thank you for allowing me to introduce myself and for making our community feel like a second family. When you're in the bakery or see me out representing Starry Lane, please don't hesitate to introduce yourself. I would love to hear your story, too!
Get in Contact With Us
Bakery Location
3925 4th Ave.
San Diego, CA 92103
Open for Treat Seekers:
Wednesday - Sunday
9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sorry No Cravings:
Monday & Tuesday
CLOSED
Contact Us
Tel: 619.328.0500
Email: info@starrylanebakery.com
Our Mission
Every guest who walks through our doors adds to the Starry Lane story.
If you’d like to share how we’ve been part of your journey, or just send a thank you my way, please write me at bobbyjo@starrylanebakery.com
Together, we’re ending food isolation — one story at a time.