Local chefs Wendy Schay and Jill McDonald have found success with their Central Arkansas sensation, The Croissanterie, which combines French croissants with southern comfort. Despite opening during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the duo has expanded to two brick-and-mortar stores and a coffee bar, with plans for even more growth in the future.
Known for their all-day breakfast plates and fluffy croissants, the pair has become popular for their locally sourced ingredients and creative pastry offerings. The store’s bestselling pastry, the almond croissant, was never meant to be a fixture but sells out daily due to high demand.
Schay and McDonald credit consistency, community support, and their commitment to local nonprofits as key factors in their success. They pay their employees well above minimum wage, support nonprofits like the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, and source ingredients locally from businesses like Ralston Family Farms and Rock Town Distillery.
Their three-day process for creating croissants involves a combination of machinery and hand-crafting, resulting in hundreds of flaky pastries ready for sale. Looking towards the future, the chefs hope to expand their catering and private dinner business, empower their employees, and continue their commitment to the community.
With their dedication to quality ingredients, community involvement, and unique culinary creations, The Croissanterie has solidified its place as a beloved establishment in Central Arkansas, offering a taste of France with a southern twist.
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