One of Orillia’s beloved businesses turned 32 over the weekend.
Mariposa Market celebrated its anniversary with hundreds of loyal customers gathering at the downtown bakery and café for free treats and coffee.
So, why Mariposa?
“I think it’s because there’s a sense of community here,” said Lyla Viney, who was at Mariposa Market with friends. “It’s not a franchise. I have more desire to put my hard-earned money into a local business, which is family owned.
“And I love what they do on Christmas,” continued the Orillia resident. “Everybody’s included. Kids go away smiling and with presents.”
Owner Bob Willsey said he was surprised at how large a crowd had gathered at the market for Sunday.
“We’re very honoured and proud that people bring their relatives and friends from out of town and stop by for a coffee,” he said.
Keeping a business fresh and going takes innovation and moving with the trends, noted Willsey.
“We’ve done some fairly regular changes, like adding the back porch and a coffee bar at the front,” he said, “and we’re always excited to try out new recipes, like gluten-free and keto diets.”
But some of their most popular items have stood the test of time, Willsey said.
“I would say we have three items that are really popular: the Texas doughnuts — we’ve done a million of them over the 32 years — the French café turkey croissant and our lemon loaf.”
Willsey said he has been very lucky to have staff members who have been there for a number of years.
In the coming years, he said, he wants to make some more changes around the bakery to make sure the store is safer and more comfortable for customers.
