A Loaf Worth Slowing Down For
At Trail Hub, we believe that the best meals begin with great stories and even better ingredients. That’s why the bread you’ll find at Nest isn’t just any bread, it’s BreadChubby. A handcrafted sourdough made right here in Durham Region by a local baker who turned a personal passion into one of the area’s most beloved loaves.
This isn’t just about sourcing local, it’s about showcasing the kind of craft that happens when someone pours their heart, hands, and a little bit of flour into every step of the process.
From Curious Baker to Crust Whisperer
When you step inside BreadChubby, the scent hits you first: warm crust, roasted grain, the distinct tang of wild fermentation. The bakery is small but mighty, tucked into a quiet corner of Whitby. It’s here that you’ll find Jonathan, the founder and baker behind the brand, working with a quiet intensity that only comes from doing something you truly love.
What started as a personal interest quickly evolved into something much more. Today, Jonathan and BreadChubby produce nearly 1,000 loaves on a busy week. Supplying retailers, restaurants, and a growing community of sourdough enthusiasts who know the difference a real, handmade loaf makes.
The method? Nothing flashy. Just high-quality flour, water, salt, time and a naturally fermented rye-based starter that gives his bread its signature depth and character. Every loaf is hand-shaped and baked in a stone hearth oven that hits over 500°F, ensuring that golden crust and chewy interior sourdough lovers chase.
What Makes BreadChubby Bread Different?
Sourdough is an art form, and Jonathan leans into its slow, deliberate nature. Each loaf begins with just three ingredients: flour, water, and salt. From there, natural fermentation and time do the heavy lifting. The result? A chewy, open crumb and dark caramelized crust that’s packed with flavour and gut-friendly benefits.
But Jonathan doesn’t just make “plain” sourdough. The menu changes regularly with small-batch, bi-weekly specials, but a few favourites always rise to the top:
- Roasted Garlic & Asiago – Rich, aromatic, and laced with aged Asiago and a touch of olive oil, this one’s a garlic lover’s dream. The kind of loaf that turns a simple meal into a memory.
- Maple Syrup & Brie – Infused with a hint of sweetness and creamy brie, this loaf is soft, indulgent, and unexpectedly perfect for French toast or cheese boards.
- Herb & Sun-Dried Tomato – Packed with basil, thyme, and sun-dried tomatoes, this one tastes like summer. Add a drizzle of olive oil and you’ve got a meal.
Each loaf is naturally leavened, hand-shaped, and baked in a stone hearth oven. The result? A golden crust, a chewy crumb, and flavour that speaks for itself.
From Local Oven to Nest Table
At Nest, the dishes are designed to highlight seasonal produce, local suppliers, and comfort with a modern edge. That’s why BreadChubby fits right in. You’ll find it sliced and served alongside dips, toasted under poached eggs, or used to soak up the last bite of something savoury and rich.
There’s a kind of quiet joy in knowing that the bread on your plate came from just down the road and that the baker behind it is still shaping each loaf by hand. Your meal supports not just a restaurant, but a whole community of small makers who believe in food that’s done right.
A Humble Loaf with a Big Impact
Jonathan never expected BreadChubby to grow the way it has. In his own words, he’s “been blown away by the support” from local retailers, the public, and places like Trail Hub, who believe in putting local talent on the table.
And that’s what our Farm to Table series is all about. Real people. Real food. Real partnerships that make our space and your meal something to remember.
About the Author
Trail Hub is your premier destination for adventure in the Greater Toronto Area. Situated in the Durham Region, we are trailside to more than 240 km of trails perfect for biking, hiking, disc golf, and skiing. Our chalet offers farm-to-table dining, breathtaking vistas, and memorable events such as corporate gatherings and weddings. Immerse yourself in the nature and vibrant community at Trail Hub.
Explore. Experience. Connect.