Our History
In 1995, Jérôme Mantel opened The French Baker in Ottawa after having switched careers in Paris and graduating with a diploma in baking.
The French Baker soon became recognized as the premier bakery in Ottawa.
In 1999, Benny’s Bistro was added at the back of the bakery.
Over the years Jérôme Mantel has built a motivated team of over 20 employees, including nine professional bakers, food and pastry chefs. Some have been with him since the beginning and most have which been trained in classic French techniques.
The French Baker and Benny’s Bistro is operated by a small team of skilled and dedicated people who prepare everything in-house.
On the left, the founding owner and original French Baker, Jérôme Mantel and his dog Benny whose name adorns our bistro.
Our approach
Buy local
We are located right in the heart of Ottawa's historic Byward market. We have great access to local purveyors and strongly believe in supporting our friends and neighbours' businesses.
Keep it simple, keep it good.