Owners Wally and Brenda have a rather unique story. For more than two years, Brenda tried desperately to save the wonderfully historic Majestic Hotel where she held fond memories of her father playing in the band. She even went as far as filing a lawsuit against city leaders to try to stop the demolition from taking place. Obviously, that was to no avail.
It was then that Wally’s dream came into play. Wally Mueller was one of the original owners of Mueller’s Bakery along with his parents, Frank and Suzie Mueller. They brought authentic, handmade German breads and pastries to Hot Springs in the 1980’s. (Mueller’s is still in operation but is not affiliated with the original Mueller family.)
Even before that, Wally had grown up in the baking business, making donuts for his parents’ Dunkin Donuts franchise in Chicago.
Wally always knew that he wanted to get back into the business again but could never find the right time. Brenda was devastated by the loss of the Majestic Hotel. That’s when the two dreams meshed. Wally decided to “go for broke” with Brenda as his partner. Her role would be to name the business and handle the décor.
Why gluten-free? Brenda’s oldest daughter has a severe gluten intolerance that made family meals a challenge. Wally wanted her to be able to eat everything that everyone else was eating. That’s when Wally and Brenda became gluten-free and liked it!
It is Wally and Brenda’s sincere desire to serve their customers delicious gluten-free offerings. They also have items on the menu that are not gluten-free, however, they are conscientious and go the extra mile to prevent cross-contamination. The Majestic Bakery & Café is located at 250 Park Ave., 501-463-4777, MajesticBakeryCafe.com.
