The Birthplace of the Original Cheesebread: A Pampanga Culinary Icon

Pampanga, Philippines – Tucked away in the heart of Pampanga, the culinary capital of the Philippines, lies the birthplace of the Original Cheesebread, a delicacy that has become a beloved staple for nearly 40 years. What started as a humble family-run bakery has grown into a culinary institution, with its signature cheesebread capturing the hearts of locals and Filipinos nationwide. From Pampanga, the bread’s popularity has spread far and wide, with loyal fans regularly sending it to Manila and abroad, further solidifying its place in the country’s rich food culture.

A Humble Beginning
The journey began in 1985, when Angelita and Bartolome Lim, along with a few partners, made the leap from running “Bart’s Grocery” to establishing their own bakery. What started as a modest venture quickly gained traction when Angelita and her eldest son, Dennis, developed what would become their signature product—the original cheesebread—in 1988. This golden-brown, melt-in-your-mouth treat instantly captivated locals, turning the bakery into a must-visit spot in Pampanga and beyond.

A Tradition of Excellence
For over two decades, Angelita Lim led the bakery with a focus on mastering the craft of baking. She devoted herself to perfecting her products, attending classes, and personally overseeing the quality of every loaf and roll. Her rigorous standards, combined with her passion for delivering the best to her customers, have been integral to the bakery’s sustained success over nearly four decades.

In 2008, the bakery transitioned to full family ownership, with Angelita’s daughter, Debbie, playing a key role in ensuring the business’s future. With the addition of her third child, Bunny Lim, the bakery embraced modern practices, streamlining operations and opening a second branch by 2011. This careful balance of tradition and innovation has allowed the bakery to flourish, keeping its legacy alive while adapting to changing times.

A Growing Legacy
Despite the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the bakery continued to grow, expanding its presence with six new branches and providing employment to hundreds of Kapampangans. Beyond its role as a purveyor of fine bread, the business has become a community pillar, contributing to local initiatives and supporting various organizations, further deepening its connection to Pampanga.

In 2024, the Department of Tourism officially recognized the bakery’s contribution to Pampanga’s culinary heritage, highlighting its role as a must-visit destination in the province.

A Legacy of Love and Loyalty
For nearly 40 years, the bakery has been more than just a business—it is a beloved icon of Pampanga’s rich culinary history. Known for its famous cheesebread, it has built a fiercely loyal customer base, with generations of families making its products part of their daily routines. The bakery’s influence has extended beyond local borders, with customers sending its products across the country and around the world.

Now guided by the leadership of Bunny and Marc Lim, the bakery continues to uphold the legacy of its founder, Angelita Lim, ensuring every product reflects the same commitment to quality that has made it a household name. As it looks to the future, the bakery remains deeply connected to its customers and the community that has supported it for decades, making it a cherished culinary treasure in Pampanga and beyond.

About L.A. Bakeshop
Founded in 1985 in Pampanga, this family-run bakery is known for its iconic Original Cheesebread. For almost four decades, it has been a fixture of Pampanga’s vibrant food culture, celebrated by locals and Filipinos across the globe for its quality and dedication.

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