Meet the Bakers: Ed and Ryan from Volare Bread

As Volare’s popularity soared, so did their expansion. The bakery now has multiple stores across Hamilton, catering to a devoted customer base. They’ve also become a favourite supplier for local cafés and restaurants, with loyal partnerships at neat places like Cream Eatery, Punnet Eatery, and Grey Street Kitchen. In 2023, Volare made the move from their original Grey Street location to join the vibrant Made Market precinct—a dynamic hub in Hamilton East that showcases the region’s top food and retail talent. The new space, with its bright, airy feel and communal vibe, has allowed Volare to further embed itself in Hamilton’s growing food scene.

The move to Made Market provided the perfect opportunity for a rebrand, the first since the bakery’s inception. While the rebrand doesn’t stray far from the original look, it offers a modern refresh with a slightly adjusted colour palette, updated typography, and a redesigned website that allows customers to easily place orders for delivery to Hamilton, Auckland, and Tauranga (two days a week). 

Collaborating with Matt Start and Designwell, Volare's new fit-out at Made Market beautifully blends old and new. Traditional touches, such as brickwork and open bread shelving, were carried over from their older stores, while new features like large street-facing windows and communal tables create a bright, welcoming space. Even the bricks on the front counter have a story—they were discovered during the demolition of the building and repurposed to tie in with the bakery’s signature brick elements.

While the move away from their original store was bittersweet, it presented an exciting opportunity to be part of Hamilton’s evolving food scene, a scene that Hamilton foodies rightfully believe doesn’t get enough credit. Volare’s involvement with Made Market has allowed them to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the Waikato’s best food producers, and the bakery’s new look feels like a reflection of the modern, evolved business they have become. The essence of Volare remains the same—letting the ingredients speak for themselves—and Ed and Ryan continue to be hands-on in the business.

Volare’s reputation is built on its exceptional sourdough breads, freshly brewed Ozone coffee, and irresistible pastries. Fan favourites include the San Francisco Sourdough, Volare Grain, Olive and Thyme Sourdough, and Turmeric Loaf. Their award-winning custard square and almond croissant have a cult following, while their savoury sausage rolls and pies are equally popular. In addition to their delectable baked goods, Volare has recently launched a line of merchandise available at all their locations, and they continue to offer Lucy's Gluten Free options for those with dietary requirements.

As Volare continues to grow, their focus remains on quality, community, and tradition. They’ve become more than just a bakery; they’ve become a symbol of Hamilton’s food culture. Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee and pastry at one of their communal tables or picking up a loaf of their famous sourdough, Volare’s commitment to excellence and their love for the craft is evident in every bite. And with their rebrand and new space at Made Markets, it’s clear that Volare is here to stay, continuing to elevate Hamilton’s culinary scene one loaf, one pastry, and one cup of coffee at a time.