Worcester bakery closing after 89 years in business

WORCESTER, Mass. — A beloved bakery and restaurant in Worcester is closing after nearly 90 years in business.

Mrs. Mack’s Bakery & Restaurant on Grafton Street has been run by the McAvey family for three generations. The original Mrs. Mack opened in 1929 in Boston until the family relocated to Worcester in 1934, where it's been an iconic staple since.

Due to recent health challenges and personal issues, the family made a difficult decision to close up shop for good.

“It’s kind of bittersweet because there’s not another generation to continue it,” said family member, Brigid McAvey Gore. “However, it’s time. It’s time to let it go.”

The family jokes that the secret ingredient to their popular pastries is the generations that made them.

Even one of the bakery counters is part of the original space from the 1920’s.

“This place is just like a part of everyone’s family in this area,” said Betsy Smith, a longtime customer of the popular business.

For customers, it’s been less a bakery and more of a community hang-out spot.

“I don’t know how we’ll all stay in touch. This is where everyone meets,” said Smith.

As their last day approaches, the family said they’ve gotten more hugs than money.

“People are going to miss this place,” said customer Jim DiGiorno. “Look around, most of the people here are like me, coming here for years.”

The bakery’s last official day is Sunday – and they’re inviting the entire community to come by for one last cup of coffee, pastries and memories.

Cox Media Group