Broken Rocks Café & Bakery in Wooster isn’t just a local eatery; it’s a testament to passion, hard work, and a dash of serendipity. Owned by Glen and Lisa Grumbling, this popular Wooster establishment boasts a story as rich and satisfying as its diverse menu. Their journey began with humble beginnings in the restaurant industry, setting the stage for what Broken Rocks is today.
Glen Grumbling’s entry into the culinary world was initially a means to an end. Post-college, a dishwashing job was simply a way to manage bills. Little did he know, alongside his wife Lisa’s restaurant experience, it was the first ingredient in a recipe for success. “I was working at a restaurant washing dishes and eventually I got into bread,” Glen recalls. “Then I was doing the bread for that restaurant.” This marked the start of Glen’s journey into the art of baking, a skill that would become a cornerstone of Broken Rocks’ identity in Wooster.
In 2000, the Grumblings took a bold step, opening Broken Rocks Café & Bakery in Loudonville. The name itself is a nod to a significant place in their lives – a small town in Michigan where they celebrated their marriage. Interestingly, this location was also where Glen sourced wild grapes, experimenting and perfecting his now-signature sourdough breads. This personal touch and dedication to quality were evident even in their early days.
The year 2007 saw Broken Rocks make its pivotal move to Wooster, occupying the building previously home to Pierce’s Sporting Goods. Expansion followed in 2014 with the addition of Rox Gastropub next door, further solidifying Broken Rocks as a dining destination in Wooster. Reflecting on their growth, Glen notes the contrast, “The whole building (in Loudonville) would fit in our current dining room,” emphasizing the significant scale-up of their Wooster operation. The move also allowed them to enhance their offerings, including the addition of a full bar, something not feasible in their original, smaller location.
Broken Rocks in Wooster is celebrated for its European-style bread, a direct result of Glen’s early bread-making experiences. However, the menu extends far beyond bread, offering a diverse selection of dishes to cater to varied tastes. From pizzas and pastas to fresh soups, vibrant salads, and hearty sandwiches, Broken Rocks provides a comprehensive dining experience. Crucially, they emphasize freshness and local sourcing, preparing meals daily with high-quality ingredients. This commitment to quality is a key element of their appeal in Wooster.
“We have a little bit of everything,” Glen explains, highlighting the broad appeal of Broken Rocks. He attributes their success to a combination of factors: “It’s good service, good food and a good atmosphere. If you don’t have all that, if you’re not hitting all those notes, you’re just not going to be in this very long.” This holistic approach to the dining experience resonates with the Wooster community and beyond.
When asked about menu favorites, Glen points to the seasonal specials. “People ask me, ‘What would you get?’” he shares. “I like to get the seasonal items that come and go. Right now, we’re doing the asparagus pizza. Things like that just draw me back year after year. I like all the dishes, but the ones that I want to eat are the ones that are in season.” This focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients further enhances the dining experience at Broken Rocks Wooster.
The Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce recognized Broken Rocks’ contribution to the local business landscape by naming them the 2021 Small Business of the Year award winner (for businesses with more than 15 employees). This accolade is a testament to their consistent quality and positive impact on Wooster.
Running a restaurant, especially through challenges like the pandemic, is no easy feat. Yet, the Grumblings have cultivated a recipe for longevity at Broken Rocks. Their success is built on hard work, valuing both customers and employees, and consistently delivering exceptional food. This dedication has made Broken Rocks Cafe & Bakery a beloved institution in Wooster.
Broken Rocks Café & Bakery Quick Facts for Wooster Visitors:
Address: 123 E. Liberty Street, Wooster, OH 44691
Website: brokenrockscafe.com
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 11AM – 8PM; Friday 11AM – 9PM; Saturday 9:30AM – 9PM
Phone: 330-263-2949
Follow Broken Rocks on Facebook for updates!
