Cleveland Heights Artisan Bakery Set to Compete on Global Stage
CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio — Proudly representing the United States at the prestigious Mondial du Pain in October, On The Rise Artisan Breads in Cleveland Heights is ready to showcase Northeast Ohio’s exceptional craftsmanship and creativity in the world of bread baking.
The Mondial du Pain: A Global Baking Arena
Often referred to as the “Olympics of bread baking,” the Mondial du Pain is a biennial competition that gathers elite bakers from around the globe. Key focuses include traditional breads, viennoiserie, and artistic creations. This year, On The Rise will compete against teams from 20 other countries, aiming to elevate American baking on an international scale.
Understanding Viennoiserie
The term “Viennoiserie” refers to baked goods made from yeast-leavened dough that blend the qualities of bread and pastry. Classic examples include croissants and brioche, which highlight both the delicate and robust skills required in the baking process.
Meet the Team
Leading Team USA is Brian Evans, the head baker and owner of On The Rise. He’s joined by junior baker Val Kertesz and coach Louis Volle, a James Beard semifinalist who has previously medaled at the Mondial. This dynamic team exemplifies expertise and dedication, vital for success in such a challenging environment.
A Personal Journey for Brian Evans
For Evans, the opportunity to compete holds personal significance. “I’ve always been a competitive person,” he shares. His competitive spirit was ignited during the Garlic Festival in Shaker Square, which spurred him to explore bread baking on a global stage. Notably, the U.S. has not participated in the Mondial since 2017, adding an extra layer of motivation for Evans to represent American baking proudly.
Rigorous Preparation
The team received news of their selection in June 2024, and since that time has been diligently refining 18 specific products for the competition. While they enjoy creative freedom, they are bound by strict production criteria and tight time limits. For instance, they must bake 12 traditional croissants that weigh exactly 60 grams, carefully managing both dough quantity and timing.
A Unique Cultural Representation
Each participating country is tasked with creating an aromatic bread that embodies its cultural identity. Initially struggling with his concept, Evans was inspired by a caramelized onion sourdough he produces for Heritage Steak & Whiskey in Woodmere. He enhanced this idea by incorporating smoked wheat and nigella seed, resulting in a loaf that delivers an aromatic experience that Evans describes as one of the most delightful he’s encountered.
Learning Beyond Competition
For Team USA, the competition transcends the quest for medals. Evans emphasizes the educational value of the experience. “This competition is more about the journey than the destination,” he notes, reflecting on the new techniques and insights gained throughout their preparation. The time spent refining their craft has proven invaluable, despite the intense stress of the process.
Spotlight on Cleveland’s Culinary Scene
Evans also sees this opportunity as a chance to highlight Cleveland’s thriving food scene. “Cleveland has an amazing food scene,” he states enthusiastically, expressing optimism about showcasing the city on an international platform. The spotlight on On The Rise not only benefits the bakery but also shines a light on the broader culinary community in the region.
A Lasting Impact
After the competition wraps up, many of the innovative products created will be available at On The Rise, which operates from two locations: 3471 Fairmount Blvd. in Cleveland Heights and the Van Aken Market Hall in Shaker Heights. This ensures that the fruits of their labor extend beyond the event, enriching the local community with new and exciting options.
As the competition approaches, excitement builds for Team USA. Cleveland Heights’s contribution to the world of bread baking is set to make waves, forever altering the landscape of American baking on a global scale.