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If you have an adventurous spirit and love culinary authenticity, a hidden gem awaits you in the tranquil streets of Fort Calhoun, Nebraska: Martinez Bakery, at 1341 Stevenson, is a cherished oasis of delightful Mexican pastries and exquisite tamales, that captivates the hearts of local residents and discerning visitors alike.
The Heartfelt Origins of Martinez Bakery
The journey of Martinez Bakery is interwoven with passion, dedication, and heartfelt aspiration. Co-founders Mario Martinez and wife Irinea laid the foundation for their dream by creating homemade delicacies shared with neighbors. Met with enthusiastic acclaim, the couple found inspiration to fulfill their lifelong dream—establishing their very own bakery.
Mario warmly reflects on their beginnings: “We started baking at home, and we would go to houses offering our goodies, and people would say to open a bakery.” Grateful for a smooth journey, Mario expresses profound gratitude to those who lent a helping hand, including their supportive landlords.
A Timeless Connection to Heritage
At the heart of Martinez Bakery is a deep-rooted connection to heritage and family traditions. Mario shares, “My great-grandfather, grandfather, and my father [had] recipes.” It is this unwavering dedication to authenticity that distinguishes the bakery as a haven for cherished flavors.
The support of Mario’s wife Irinea was instrumental in their journey. “My motivation was and is my wife; she supported me. One day I told her I wanted to start a bakery, and she told me she supported me,” Mario conveys with heartfelt sincerity.
Endearing Admiration and the Joy of Discovery
Customers shared their endearing admiration for Martinez Bakery, and several mentioned the bakery’s serendipitous charm. Tara Adams praises the warm service, “I’ve had their tamales and their baked goods! They are super nice anytime I go in there!” Ashley “Casey” Hallberg echoes the sentiment, “The tamales are outstanding!!!!” Elizabeth Ruffin Koterba concurs, “They have great tamales!”
Laura Hardwick reflects on cherished memories, “I grew up in East Los Angeles. This bakery reminds me of my morning walks with my grandfather to get our morning ‘pan’ breads. Very authentic and delicious!” And, Kirt Ringler commends the dedication, “Hardworking family that has mastered their craft. The pastries never disappoint, and the tamales are amazing.”
My son and I love the pastries and tamales! They are always fresh and excellent! I have a primarily Hispanic team at work, and they have loved the authentic pastries I bring into work for them! And the owners are always SO friendly! We just went this past weekend, and the owner mentioned they may close down, and I told them we hoped they don’t because it’s been so nice having fresh pastries in Calhoun.
Andrew Brewer, Fort Calhoun
What’s Our Opinion?
If you read any articles or reviews we write of food businesses in the area, you know we don’t publish unless we try the food ourselves. As it happens, we bought a sack full of pastries and tamales this morning to eat for breakfast. The donuts were good – if less sweet than expected. I could write about each pastry but it would not serve you to read about how good the donuts were: My margin of what’s good or not in a donut is about that of Homer Simpson. It’s rare I find a donut I won’t like.
To say we thought the donuts were good is to state the obvious.
The tamales, though.
The tamales were not just “good.” The tamales were the best I’ve had. Ever. In 55 years, those were the absolute best. We got two kinds: The chicken, and the other with jalapeno and cheese. The tamales were bigger than expected, moist, hot, and spicy. The heat was immediate, flavorful, and real. Every bit of those tamales was five-star, delicious and absolutely unique for this area. As I write this, I’m sad I can’t have another one, RIGHT NOW.
It is rare I editorialize, but here goes: If I was in charge at the Martinez Bakery, I would focus on those tamales, build relationships with local restaurants and delis, and deliver to Blair – right up the road – somehow. They are just that good. If you own a restaurant or deli and want to add something new and high-quality to your menu, absolutely call Mario and Irinea at (402) 237-5656.
Some customers say the bakery can be challenging to find due to a lack of prominent signage. But, the work to find them transforms Martinez Bakery into a delightful discovery—a serendipitous haven that rewards seekers with the joy of authentic flavors.
A Cherished Legacy of Culinary Exploration
In Fort Calhoun, Nebraska, Martinez Bakery serves as a beacon of tradition and authenticity. Whether you’re a seasoned admirer or embarking on your first adventure, Martinez Bakery invites you to embrace the joy of exploration and savor the richness of tradition—one delectable bite at a time. Find the Martinez Bakery at 1341 Stevenson, Fort Calhoun, Nebraska, and their phone number is (402) 237-5656.