Milk Belly is a new Asian-inspired bakery in San Jose, founded by married couple Maria Belzunce and Jason Venters. Opening from a ghost kitchen in November 2022, they gained traction quickly, featuring unique sourdough varieties and traditional Japanese bread. Despite early setbacks, including a lost stove and delayed opening, they persevered. The bakery's cozy interior includes personal touches from the owners, attracting local influencers and rapidly building a dedicated customer base. Their decision to prioritize family time motivated them to start the business, blending their culinary backgrounds with personal aspirations.
Belzunce, a lifelong baker, explains, "We were taking a risk. We didn't have investors or a lot of money. We felt that if our product was good, business would follow."
Despite challenges like a lost stove shipment and a monthslong opening delay, Belzunce and Venters made it work, opening with minimal equipment and baking early each day.
Belzunce and Venters started Milk Belly from a tiny ghost kitchen, harnessing social media and local influencers to turn their passion into a growing business.
The couple decided to open Milk Belly to create a lifestyle balance that allowed them time for their children, transitioning away from their demanding culinary careers.
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