Hello! I’m Rebecca Wiley Marshall, owner and operator of Market Street Pastries. Our bakery-café opened in August 2011, after my husband Jeff and I purchased the historic building in 2009 in which it is housed. My passion for baking combined with our family’s interest in historic preservation and desire to contribute to the community led to the creation of what is now a focal point and favorite gathering spot in our little town. Blairsville has been home to our families for generations, and it is important to us to serve our community well.

The property known as the “Brizzi Building” to area residents formerly housed Brizzi’s Candy & Nut Shop. The original brick dwelling on the property was built prior to 1847. In approximately 1900, the impressive story Queen Anne section facing Market Street was added; this original façade remains intact.

In 1926, the property was purchased by Joseph and Marie Brizzi with the intent of operating a grocery and fruit store. The business quickly evolved into an ice cream, candy, and roasted nut store, where the soda fountain became a very popular gathering spot for the town’s youth for many years. The chocolate candies made by Brizzi’s were renowned throughout the area. Vera, daughter of Joseph and Marie eventually operated the shop; as she grew older, only opening its doors during holidays to fill special orders. After Vera’s death in 2006, the building fell into a severe state of disrepair.

After acquiring the property, our family undertook the daunting tasks of correcting major structural deterioration, heating, plumbing and electrical systems and complete restoration of the entire building. A labor of love eventually resulted restoration of all spaces, including second and third floor and rear residential, in addition to the first floor where we created our bakery-café.

The second and third floors above the bakery were originally restored and used as an art gallery and studio space. This serene and relaxing space has now been converted to The Bakery Loft, an apartment available for rent by visitors to the area.

Our family has been integral to the growth and success of our bakery-café and this includes an important legacy. One of our most popular items is our maple roll, which is a recreation of those baked by Jeff’s grandfather, father, and uncles at the former Federal Bakery, which was also located on Market Street and closed in the late 1970’s. Just as long-time residents of Blairsville have fond recollections of Brizzi’s ice cream sodas, chocolate, and penny candy, they often reminisce about the Federal Bakery maple rolls and are so happy to enjoy them once again!

While I am responsible for operations at Market Street Pastries and can’t wait to meet you, we invite you also to visit our sister restaurant, Villa Pub & Grill, located at 931 Old William Penn Highway, Blairsville. When you are there, be sure to say hello to Jeff!