Celebrating Exceptional Businesses - Theodore’s Fine Foods
Theodore's Fine Foods: A Culinary Gem in Prescott
It was one of those perfect Saturday mornings at the Prescott Farmer's Market when I first discovered Theodore's Fine Foods. The aroma of freshly baked goods pulled me in like a magnet, and one bite of their chili fennel bagel had me hooked. Since then, I've become what you might call a regular, and I'm excited to share this exceptional local business with you today.
Theodore’s owner, Max Pelham
The People Behind the Magic
When you step into Theodore's, you're not just walking into a bakery – you're entering what bagel meister Gina describes as "more of an artist studio than a workplace." I love this idea because it perfectly captures the creative energy that flows through the space.
The owner, Max Pelham, is a Boston transplant who moved to Prescott to be closer to family. He’s passionate about great food made with really good ingredients and a massive amount of attention to detail. Bringing his experience as a chef at Life Alive Organic Cafe and other noted Boston restaurants, Max has created a space where exceptional food and community come together. As I talked with him, I learned about his inspiration for new offerings and how much he wants his customers to enjoy them. What I admire most about his approach is how he encourages his team to be creative and try new things.
Max and Gina starting new batches of bagels and croissants—each one takes three days from start to finish!
There was a line of eager customers when I arrived mid-morning. Beautifully arranged bagels,pastries, and donuts beckoned me forward. The friendly faces of Jayce, Elisa, and Molly greet you at the front counter, always providing great service and good vibes. Every time I pop in, the spacious dining area is humming with happy customers.
Max takes the time to greet his customers and get to know them.
Crafted with Care
What makes Theodore's truly special is their commitment to craftsmanship. Nothing here is mass-produced – everything is created with intention and care. Would you believe it takes three days to make just one bagel or croissant? That level of dedication to the process is increasingly rare in our fast-paced world.
When I visited last week, I noticed a large pot of strawberry jam simmering on the stove, destined for their popular jelly donuts. It's these little touches – making their fillings, toppings, and even lox and cultured cream cheese schmears in-house – that elevate the experience. The quality and care show in every pastry, bagel, and donut that they craft at Theodore’s.
Max and Gina forming bagels
The Menu That Keeps Me Coming Back
The bagels alone are worth the visit – hundreds made daily in fantastic flavors like Everything, Turkish, Hatch Cheddar, Fig & Olive, and my personal favorite, Chili Fennel. Each comes with the option of house-made cultured cream cheese schmears that complement the bagels perfectly.
The Sofra Sausage Bagel Sandwich and Theo’s Breakfast Sammie—two of our faves!
Max has brought some of his Boston favorites to Prescott with breakfast sandwiches that are simply divine. The Sofra Sausage sandwich and Theo's Breakfast Sammie with egg soufflé, house-made aioli, and arugula are standouts that I find myself craving mid-week.
Jayce and Alisa are happy to make breakfast your favorite meal of the day!
Then there are the pastries – oh, the pastries! Croissants, cinnamon rolls (as big as your face!), monkey bread, scones, and other laminated delights like chocolate hazelnut croissants and caramel apple danish. Their donuts are carefully crafted with those house-made jellies and fillings I mentioned.
And I can't forget to mention the Cruffin – a best-seller that lives up to the hype!
Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant and Cinnamon Rolls
Where to Find Them
You can find Theodore's at the Prescott Farmer's Market every Saturday, which is where my love affair with their baked goods began. But if you're like me and can't wait a full week between visits, you can stop by their bakery and coffeehouse at 239 N. Marina St. in Prescott, open daily until 1 pm.
As I've discovered over my many visits, there are no bad decisions at Theodore's Fine Foods. Whether you're in the mood for a Boston Cream Pie donut, a bagel with schmear, or one of their incredible breakfast sandwiches, you're in for a treat crafted with care by people who truly love what they do.
Have you discovered any exceptional local businesses lately? Message me—I'd love to hear about your finds!