After Decades In The Neighborhood, John's Bakery Closes

John’s Bakery, a Ditmas Park institution that became an integral part of so many of our lives – serving its cakes and cookies at bridal parties, weddings, and baby showers; handing over the addictive egg sandwiches to the children of parents who had flocked there as kids; being a place of continuity where you could pay a dollar for coffee while catching up with neighbors – has closed.

John Ficarra, whose family has owned the business for more than 50 years (including his father, Mario), sent us a message about the closing – which he also posted on the front of the bakery at 1322 Cortelyou Road.

It reads:

To all John’s Bakery valued customers: It is with regret that we must say goodbye to all our wonderful neighbors, customers and friends. It has been a pleasure serving our community. We appreciate our customers, many who have become lifelong friends, and many who have been coming in since they were children with their own parents. We have seen generations of families walk through our door. It has been an honor to have shared holidays with you and to have been a part of so many special occasions… from birthdays to weddings. Thank you for making us a part of your lives. And, thank you for your business. It was not our original intention to leave the neighborhood after 25 years. However, opportunities unexpectedly arose and quick decisions had to be made which necessitated closing the store. Please join us in welcoming your new neighbors who we are sure intend to contribute to the neighborhood’s upswing. Thank you again, not only for your business but for the support and the friendships we have shared over the years. We will surely miss starting our days with you. Sincerely, John & Staff

We’ve reached out to John about what his plans are for the future (i.e. if there’s going to be a place to scout out John’s bagels) and what business is expected to move into the space, which was listed here for $7,000 a month.

We’d love to hear your memories of John’s! Feel free to add them in the comments below or email us at editor@ditmasparkcorner.com.