UPDATE: The iconic M&G Caiafa bakery at Queen Victoria Market is set to close its doors for the final time this Sunday, March 19, 2026. After more than 50 years of serving the community, loyal customers are flocking to the shop to bid farewell and stock up on their favorite breads and pastries.
The bakery, founded by Italian immigrants Michael and Grace Caiafa in 1974, has been a cherished fixture in the market’s dairy hall. Customers have been arriving in droves this week to savor one last black olive baguette or pistachio and raspberry croissant, as well as to share heartfelt goodbyes with the Caiafa family, whom many consider friends.
The decision to close comes after the family, particularly siblings MJ, Michelle, and Michael junior, faced the challenges of early mornings and the desire to spend more time with their children. MJ expressed, “It was time to sell,” marking a significant change for the family and the community.
The bakery will continue operations under the new ownership of Two Bakers, ensuring that the beloved bakery tradition will persist, albeit with new management. This transition echoes the resilience the family showed during difficult times, particularly after the death of Grace in 1995 from a brain tumor.
Reflecting on their mother’s legacy, MJ remarked that Grace would be at peace with the decision. “She worked so hard and didn’t get to enjoy life beyond the market,” she noted. The siblings are now ready to embrace new opportunities and prioritize family, a move they believe their mother would support.
Customer Grace Hicks, who has been visiting the bakery since childhood, expressed mixed feelings about the closure. “I’m happy the Caiafas will have a break, but I’m sad that we won’t see them each week. It’s the end of an era,” she said, illustrating the emotional impact of this closure on the community.
As the final day approaches, the Caiafa family is preparing for a bittersweet farewell, filled with memories and gratitude for the decades of support. The story of M&G Caiafa bakery is not just about bread and pastries; it’s about the connections built over the years, the love for their craft, and the community they nurtured.
The last day of business is expected to draw a large crowd, as many hope to secure one last taste of their favorite treats and share memories with the family. As this chapter closes, the Caiafa siblings look forward to a future with fewer early mornings and more family time, honoring their mother’s legacy while pursuing their own paths.
Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this developing story and share updates on the future of M&G Caiafa bakery.
