A cozy bakery and reading nook in the heart of Rochester, Illinois
Slow down and savor the sweet things in life
If nothing fills your cup like a hot brew, a decadent pastry, and getting lost in a novel—we have a cozy spot waiting for you at Mockingbird Bakery.
While you’re here, you can unwind and delight your senses:
Savor decadent pastries and cakes crafted daily by our talented bakers
Sip handcrafted, freshly-roasted coffees and refreshing teas
Flip the pages of a book from our curated collection
Want to bring the goodness of Mockingbird home with you?
We offer custom orders of cakes, cupcakes, and cookies to sweeten the special (or everyday!) occasions in your life.
The Mockingbird Bakery Story
“A good book and a cup of coffee is my idea of heaven. Throw in a warm baked good – bliss.”
– Kathryn Elder, owner and head baker
Photo by Chris McDonald
Crafting connections with flour and butter
My love for baking was sparked in my mother’s kitchen. With every batch of Christmas cookies we crafted for friends and family, I saw how people could connect through the art of baking.
This realization led me to pursue a mastery in baking, including:
A certificate in Patisserie & Baking from Le Cordon Bleu Texas Culinary Academy
A prestigious internship at Colette’s Cakes in New York City
A position decorating cakes alongside the amazing Milette Raz at Alliance Bakery in Chicago
Building a community around baking and books
I dreamed of bringing my passions for baking and connection to Rochester, IL. Beyond selling pastries, I envisioned a place where all can gather, slow down, and enjoy life.
In 2021, we opened the doors to Mockingbird Bakery—named for one of the best novels of all time, To Kill a Mockingbird.
It’s my heart and soul poured into handmade baked goods. When you visit, you’ll find a bookshelf stocked with books, cozy spots to connect with friends, and handcrafted coffee and pastries to warm your heart.