The Danish-owned Danish Mill Bakery has been a family-owned tradition in Solvang for 63 years.

“Arvid Petersen, the founder of Danish Mill Bakery Inc. finished his apprenticeship as a baker in 1931. Upon receiving his degree as a journeyman baker, he went to work for one of the finest bakeries in Copenhagen, Denmark. While working there he supplied the baked goods for King Christian X of Denmark. In 1940 the Petersens started the Danish Mill Bakery in Copenhagen, Denmark. The family immigrated to the United States in 1957. On September 17th, 1960, the Danish Mill Bakery was opened in Solvang, California. Arvid’s son, Torben Petersen, learned from his father and build upon his father’s legacy, continued Danish Mill Bakery until 2020.”

Danish entrepreneur (and Solvang resident) Rene Gross Kaerskov (with no previous bakery experience) acquired the business in 2020 with the goal of delivering both a contemporary and a traditional Danish bakery experience to his customers.

“Danish Mill Bakery’s Pastry Chef Henrik Gram was born and raised in Copenhagen in Denmark and has been working as a baker for more than 40 years. Henrik received his apprenticeship as baker and has owned several of his own bakeries in Denmark until he immigrated to the United States in 2009. While working in Copenhagen he baked for H.M. Queen Margrethe II of Denmark and various Ambassadors.” A specialty year-round are the Christmas Cookies, Danish Vaniljekranse (“Vanilla Wreaths.”)

Rene Gross Kaerskov also operates two other authentic Danish dessert spots in Solvang. Newly opened by Rene next to the landmark Landsby Hotel on Solvang’s Mission Dr. is Brod & Kage (bread and cake.) It’s a mini version of Danish Mill Bakery featuring the most popular items. Also in Rene’s sweets portfolio is Aebleskivehuset, a Danish dessert shop featuring signature aebleskivers, house-made Danish ice cream flavors and handcrafted espresso drinks.

Rene Gross Kaerskov is our guest with a licorice ice cream in a waffle cone at the ready.

The post Show 557, December 23, 2023: Danish Mill Bakery, Solvang, with Proprietor Rene Gross Kaerskov Part One appeared first on SoCal Restaurant Show.