Cole's Peace Artisan Bakery was started by Kurt Matarazzo in December 1997. Since then, residents and visitors to Key West have fallen in love with the crusty loaves of hand-crafted breads—each one a culmination of careful, patient steps. Untreated flours, whole grains and live leavening cultures are mixed, shaped and allowed to slowly rise into the creations of individual mystery they are.

After years of baking success, as well as local and national acclaim, Kurt decided to close Cole's Peace to pursue other interests. In the spring and early summer of 2003, the staff of Cole's Peace approached Richard Tallmadge, owner of the nearby "Restaurant Store," about buying Cole's Peace and keeping the tradition alive for the bread-loving people of Key West.

The original Cole's Peace location at 930 Eaton Street was closed to the public on June 23, 2003. But behind the scenes a lot of activity was going on. The bakery was moved two blocks to the northeast to 1111 Eaton Street -- adjacent to The Restaurant Store.

In October 2004 the ovens were re-ignited, and the bakery began producing bread again with the original recipes, equipment and a staff personally trained by Kurt. We are staying true to the care and methods that Kurt developed. We are grateful for the support from the Key West Community as we produce the same great Cole's Peace breads that have become a Key West tradition.

Our latest inspration is a collection of truly great sandwich combinations. "You know the bread; now meet the sandwich!" You will not be disappointed.

Richard and Cathy Tallmadge