SALT LAKE CITY — A beloved Utah bakery known for its colorful doughnuts, creamy drinks, and friendly charm is closing its doors for good.
The Chubby Baker, which operates three locations across Salt Lake City, Sandy, and Orem, announced Sunday that it will close all stores on November 9.
Owner Ying Nance shared the news in a heartfelt message to customers, citing rising costs and the desire to spend more time with her growing family.
“The rising costs of goods, payroll, and so many other expenses have made it increasingly difficult to sustain the business,” Nance wrote. “As our family continues to grow, I’ve realized how much time and energy this business takes — time I want to spend with my little ones. I’m a businesswoman, but I’ll always be a mom first.”
From Pandemic Start-Up to Community Favorite
The Chubby Baker began as a home delivery business during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, quickly gaining popularity for its creative pastries and unique drinks.
In 2021, Nance opened her first storefront on 900 South in Salt Lake City, followed by locations in Orem and Sandy. Fans lined up for her signature brioche doughnuts, mochi bites, and house-blended teas — often selling out early in the day.
But like many small food businesses, The Chubby Baker struggled to recover from post-pandemic inflation and rising supply and labor costs.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every visit, every kind word, and every bit of support along the way,” Nance said. “You’ve made this journey so special.”
Fans React With Gratitude and Sadness
Within hours of the announcement, hundreds of loyal customers filled social media with messages of support.
“You should be so proud of what you built,” one fan wrote. “You’ll be missed more than you know.”
Others vowed to visit one last time before the bakery officially closes on November 9.
Utah Restaurant Closures Continue to Climb
The Chubby Baker joins a growing list of local restaurants and cafés closing across the Wasatch Front this year.
- Current Fish & Oyster, a Salt Lake fine-dining staple celebrating its 10th anniversary, will close on November 8.
- Charlotte-Rose’s Carolina BBQ in Millcreek has transitioned to catering-only operations.
- Laziz Kitchen closed its downtown Salt Lake location and attached speakeasy Back Door on Edison earlier this month, citing long-term construction disruptions and unsustainable food costs.
Despite the wave of closures, Utah’s food scene continues to evolve — with more than 150 new restaurants opening across the region in the past year, according to Gastronomic Salt Lake City.
Still, Nance’s farewell highlights the ongoing challenges faced by small restaurant owners balancing rising expenses and personal well-being.
The Final Taste
For Utahns who’ve grown to love The Chubby Baker’s playful pastries and cozy vibe, the next two weeks offer one last chance to enjoy it.
As Nance put it in her farewell:
“This isn’t goodbye forever — just goodbye for now. Thank you for being part of our story.”
