Anneke Schat grew up surrounded by flour. Her father, Erick Schat, built the storied Erick Schat’s Bakery in Bishop, Calif; her mother, Shea, has run the Mammoth location for more than 20 years; her brother, Paul, owns Paul Schat’s Bakery in Carson City; and cousins and nephews have carried the name across California and Nevada. Anneke spent four years managing her father’s Bishop bakery before striking out on her own. In 2022, she launched a bakery food truck in Washoe Valley. That cart grew into Darling Dutch Bakery, a brick-and-mortar operation with more than 10 employees.
Darling Dutch Bakery by Anneke Schat is located at 3115 Eastlake Blvd., in New Washoe City. Visit @DarlingDutchBakery on Instagram.
What’s the best thing you’ve eaten locally in the last month?
One place my family enjoys is the Washoe Tavern, right next door. They’re wonderful neighbors, and I love supporting other local businesses whenever I can. We believe a strong community is built by supporting one another, and that’s something that’s important to me.
Your kitchen is on fire! (Metaphorically.) What are you cooking?
Sourdough. Always sourdough. Bread is at the heart of what we do. If the kitchen is busy, chances are we’re mixing dough, shaping loaves and filling the bakery with that smell everyone loves.
Who is/was your strongest culinary influence?
My Dutch family and my father, Erick Schat. I grew up surrounded by baking, hard work and the belief that food should bring people together. Those lessons shaped how I approach both baking and business today.
What is your go-to midnight snack?
A slice of sourdough, plain yogurt and a cup of sleepy tea. Nothing fancy, just comforting and satisfying. I always try to eat balanced and (live a) healthy lifestyle. Health is everything.
Which local restaurant deserves more attention, and why?
There are so many small businesses that deserve support. The places that impress me most are the ones showing up every day, making food from scratch, supporting local suppliers, and creating gathering places for the community. Those are the businesses that keep a town special.
How does food contribute to our community?
Food brings people together. Some of the best conversations happen around a table. At the bakery, we’ve watched friendships form, neighbors meet, business ideas start and families gather. Food isn’t just nourishment—it’s connection. It’s my pleasure to be the place where people feel love, also.
What is the one thing you won’t eat?
I will not eat a Twinkie or anything that’s intentionally wasteful or made without care. I’m willing to try almost anything once, but I appreciate food most when it’s made thoughtfully and with quality ingredients.
Please share your favorite food memory from growing up.
Walking into the bakery early in the morning and smelling fresh bread coming out of the oven. Those smells instantly take me back to childhood. It’s probably why I still love baking today.
What is the one kitchen tool you can’t live without?
A good mixer is essential, but if I had to pick one tool, I’d say my hands. You learn so much about dough by feeling it. No machine can completely replace that connection.
What has been your most memorable meal?
Some of my most memorable meals weren’t fancy at all. The sourdough pizza dinners we host at the bakery are meals shared with family and friends after a long day of work, but sometimes it’s all about serving others after their long day and enjoying each other’s company. The people you’re with often matter more than what’s on the plate.