The story
Company Bakery in Musselburgh operates just outside Edinburgh, serving exceptional sourdough and artisan breads born from a collective of chefs and restaurateurs. Launched in 2017 by Ben Reade along with partners from Smith & Gertrude and Lovecrumbs, the group initially supplied loaves to Scotland's top restaurants before expanding into a public cafe in Eskmills. This professional pedigree contributed to a Local Gem award in The Good Food Guide 2026. The team applies rigorous standards to every bake, utilizing slow fermentation and locally milled grains to produce reliable, high-quality results seven days a week.
The kitchen transforms its bread-making expertise into a focused lunch menu featuring stacked sandwiches on house-baked focaccia and warm toasties filled with Manchego and chorizo. Regulars often seek out limited-time offerings like the celebrated hot cross buns during spring. Ingredients trace back to regional sources, including wheat cultivated at Mungoswells Farm in East Lothian's Breadbasket district. These local partnerships ensure the flavour profile of every loaf remains distinct while supporting the same commitment to provenance that defines their signature sourdough.
Customers visit a working environment where the baking process happens visibly behind the counter, reinforcing the brand's emphasis on openness and connection. The name derives from the Latin phrase com panis, meaning "with bread," highlighting the founders' belief that sharing food builds community. Practical choices mirror these values, from an electric delivery van using reusable crates to energy-efficient ovens that minimise fuel use. The space also accommodates social gatherings like pizza nights, keeping the vibe relaxed and neighbourly.
Recognition
Location