15-05-2025
Lutra Cafe & Bakery will open permanent spot after successful pop-up
Lutra Cafe & Bakery will open a permanent location in downtown Durham's American Tobacco Campus later this year after a successful run as a pop-up.
Why it matters: Lutra, known for its sweet-and-savory morning buns, is now the second venture after Isaac's Bagels to graduate from the pop-up window at Queeny's, a bar and restaurant in downtown Durham, into their own space.
Lutra's baked goods can also be found at several farmers markets and coffee shops throughout the Triangle.
Zoom in: Lutra was created by Chris McLaurin, the former chef de cuisine at Poole'side Pies.
When Poole'side closed in 2023, McLaurin took it as a sign to go all-in on opening a bakery in Durham — an idea he had been toying around with for years.
The original focus of Lutra has been a rotating mixture of sweet-and-savory buns, inspired by memories of his mother making orange buns during his childhood.
The morning buns have proven popular with flavors like orange and brown butter rosemary, and seasonal offerings like king cake for Mardi Gras.
What to expect: The new space will give Lutra the capacity to expand its menu to even more pastries, like soft pretzels, and a sourdough bread program.
It also plans to add a breakfast and lunch menu, with items like sausage-egg-and-cheese breakfast sandwiches, eggs Benedict and salads, as well as a weekend brunch menu.
Location: Lutra will be located at 312 Blackwell St., suite 102 in the ATC's Noell Building.
