About Us
Baking with Love.
Kate Lander
Following in her two brothers’ footsteps, Kate Lander emigrated to Canada from the UK in 1987. She lived in Saint John, NB with her husband, two young boys and a daughter, for 24 years before moving to the Annapolis Valley in 2011.
Kate Lander is the owner/operator of Essentially English Bakery & Cafe in Hantsport, Nova Scotia. She has loved to cook and bake ever since she first learned how in her Mum’s kitchen. Now, she loves putting a smile on people’s faces with her delicious creations. Nearly all of her career has been in the food industry. While baking is her primary job and passion, Kate also enjoys reading, time spent outdoors and gardening.
Kate has had many jobs in the food industry, beginning at the age of 14 while in school in Nottingham. She started out in the fruit and vegetable business, then baking and selling at local farmers markets. She was dessert maker and line cook at Luckett Vineyards, specialized grocery manager at Pete’s in Bedford, and manager at Kate’s Bakery in New Minas. With her years of experience at Kate’s, she knew she wanted to own a bakery somewhere, somehow!
Kate is a very hardworking individual passionate about baking, cooking, and putting a smile on people’s faces with her creations. Most of the recipes she uses at Essentially English Bakery are ones that have been in her family for years.
Kate Lander and Cheryl MacKay in front of their new sign, installed September 15 2021.
Cheryl MacKay
Cheryl MacKay has been involved in the food service industry for over twelve years. She first started baking at Kate's Bakery in New Minas (now closed). A passionate food lover and home cook, Cheryl is excited to get back into the kitchen at Essentially English Bakery & Cafe. Cheryl loves the bakery environment, loves people, and loves working with Kate. One of Cheryl's favourite tasks is making savouries and pies. Working with Kate, everything is made from scratch using real butter, fresh eggs, fresh meats for sandwiches. Cheryl loves new challenges and spending time brainstorming with Kate for new takes on old recipes.
Traditional Recipes
Baking
English-style sweet and savoury treats using traditional family recipes
Dine in & Takeout
Lunches
Soups, sandwiches, and daily baked specials.
Select Imported
Groceries
A carefully chosen selection of various imported groceries