Jeremy Broucek
Bread & Friends | Portland, ME
SEPTEMBER 2023
Growing up in the small town of Shutesbury, Massachusetts, Jeremy Broucek’s love of food came from the influence of his parents, both at home in his family's garden and kitchen, and through the natural granola company they owned and operated. After working in various kitchens across Western Massachusetts, Broucek went on to attend the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. Upon graduation, he landed at Barbara Lynch's No. 9 Park in Boston, working his way through every station. He then accepted a sous chef position at Spoke under Rising Stars alum John DaSilva, where he met future wife and business partner, Jess Rattey. Looking to further his career (and mountain bike year round), Broucek relocated to San Francisco in 2014, taking a position at Rising Stars alum Stuart Brioza's The Progress. Over the next six years, Broucek moved his way up to chef de cuisine of the Michelin-starred restaurant, while forming friendships with future business partners Tanner and Maggie Rubin.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020 and The Progress temporarily closed, Broucek and Rattey began helping Tanner at his farmers market stand. To complement Tanner’s baked goods, Broucek introduced savory breakfast dishes to the stand's menu. They eventually expanded to open their own stall together, called Practical Yolks. Eager to return to New England, Broucek, Rattey, and the Rubins moved cross-country to Maine to begin formulating their own concept. The group started producing wholesale products and selling their goods at local farmers markets. Broucek created jams, butters, pickles, and spreads to pair with Tanner's breads and Rattey’s pastries. In early 2023, the group opened Bread & Friends, their first brick-and-mortar in Portland, Maine. With Broucek in charge of the savory side, he has created a composed menu that celebrates the simple joy of grabbing a bite with friends.
2023 StarChefs Coastal New England Rising Stars Award Winner
