New bakery Shape to open in Darlington Indoor Market

‘Shape: Patisserie & Bake’ will launch with a range of fresh bread and pastries being made daily.

It will sit on the East Row to the rear of the market, historically known as Bakehouse Hill. The location has been chosen as a nod to the area’s history.

The new stall is the latest venture of Catalin Cirimpei, who runs Banqo on the other side of the market, and who is bringing wife Mariana on board for the new bakery which will also run breadmaking classes.

Catalin said: “Banqo has gone from strength to strength at Darlington Market, and I am very excited to continue to be a part of the market’s transformation by bringing this new bakery and bar concept.

“Shape will be a unique offering to the town, not only providing delicious fresh baked goods and pastries to customers, but also as a way for me to help develop other aspiring bakers and keep the art alive.”

It is the latest new vendor to open at the market on the back of Marketplace Fish and Chips and Italian deli Bodega Deliza which was set up last month.

The Market’s food and drink festival will also take place over the early May bank holiday weekend.

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Michael Harvey, Darlington Market’s manager, said: “It’s fantastic to see such a strong demand for the available units at Darlington Market.

“These new openings are a clear reflection of our ambition to create a space that celebrates a traditional market while looking to the future and catering for the demands of our customers.

“Whether it’s baking or continental-inspired dishes, or even a fresh take on a British classic, it’s a testament to the strength of our market community and the growing appetite for high-quality, diverse food experiences in the heart of our town.”