Nemesis’s in-house bakery is growing up. This summer, Dope Bakehouse is striking out on its own with the opening of its first-ever standalone location at 650 Mountain Highway in North Vancouver. Originally developed to complement Nemesis’s excellent coffee program, Dope Bakehouse has since earned a loyal following – and now, it’s ready for its solo debut.
At the helm is Kevin Lucas, a classically trained pastry chef who grew up in Brittany, France, the birthplace of the famous kouign-amann. His career has led him around the world, including working at prestigious spots such as Audierne, La Plagne, Tignes, Arcachon, and Saint-Barthélemy. Lucas brings a deep respect for French technique, creativity, and a passion for all things laminated, said the company.
Dope Bakehouse is expected to open later this summer
“We first named our in-house bakery program Dope Bakehouse at our Nemesis Polygon location, and it really took off beyond our imaginations. It was then we knew we had something really special,” explains Jess Reno, founder and CEO of Nemesis. “Through our pastry friends, we were connected with Kevin. It’s now the right time to give Dope its own home.
Lucas will work closely with Nemesis’s culinary leadership, executive chef Mielye Mitchell and executive sous chef Lina Serrano, to continue pushing the boundaries of what a modern bakehouse can be. Also on the team, an international network of super talented chefs and pastry chefs collaborating on this pursuit of passion, explained the company.
“Guests can expect a distinct Dope Bakehouse identity, one that still carries the Nemesis spirit of “coffee creating culture”, but with its own rhythm and energy. Every pastry will be made on-site, with new features dropping throughout the month. The menu will highlight signature viennoiserie, seasonal pastry creations, cookies, focaccia sandwiches, and more. Examples include: Mango Coconut Rice Pudding Danish, Hochija Strawberry Danish, Bacon Smoked Cheese and Fermented Honey Croissant, Marsala Tiramisu Cruffin, and Espresso Double Chocolate Smoked Sea Salt Cookie,” said the company.
The 3,000-square-foot space, including its kitchen facility, features 15 seats and a 24-foot ceiling. The room highlights baking themes, designed in collaboration with up-and-coming design firm Sml Studio Architecture. Inspired by re-interpreted nostalgia, guests will see the curves of viennoiserie, colours of baked goods, and a glossy bar reminiscent of butter upon their visit, it said.
“We’re just having a lot of fun with this concept. Our goal has always been to create spaces where people feel inspired by the whole experience – from the food, the drinks, to the music, the design, and the people. Dope Bakehouse is the embodiment of our tongue and cheek spirit – the playful, younger sibling to Nemesis. We can’t wait to share it with the North Shore community and beyond,” said Reno.
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