A Passion for Pastries, Community, and Culinary Creativity
Heather Lincoln discovered her love for the culinary arts in her grandmother’s kitchen—and since then, her passion has fueled her to create Blissful Cafe & Bakery in Meredith, New Hampshire. Heather’s cafe is a local gem, full of a warm and welcoming charm, which delights visitors with homemade pastries and delicious breakfast and lunch offerings. In the Lakes Region, Blissful Cafe & Bakery stands out as a thriving community cafe featuring fresh, made-from-scratch dishes.
A Sweet Start: The Inspiration Behind Blissful Cafe & Bakery
For Heather, baking isn’t just a career. From the time she was young, baking alongside her grandmother, Heather has channeled her creativity into the culinary arts. That passion has been lifelong: Heather earned a degree in culinary management from Newbury College, and this year, she took the bold step to open Blissful Cafe & Bakery.
“It’s been a dream come true,” says Heather. “I always knew I wanted to bake, but I also have a passion for creating delicious breakfast and lunch dishes. I’m so excited to bring both of those together here in Mill Falls, offering the community something they’ve been missing: homemade pastries paired with fresh, wholesome meals.”
A Menu for Everyone
At Blissful Cafe & Bakery, using fresh, local ingredients is how Heather creates dishes that serve a vast range of dietary preferences. Whether you're gluten-free, vegan, or simply craving a comforting homemade breakfast, the menu offers something for everyone.
From hearty breakfast burritos to fresh salads and gourmet sandwiches, each dish is crafted with care and creativity. The fan favorite, however, is the bakery’s selection of freshly baked goods—where Heather’s baking passion gets to shine. From flaky croissants to decadent cinnamon rolls and custom cakes, Heather’s pastries have become a beloved local treat.
In addition to food, Blissful Cafe & Bakery offers a curated selection of local jarred goods, such as maple syrup, hot honey, and candied jalapenos, as well as handcrafted pillows. The café also serves an array of beverages, including house-made lemonade, iced chai, and specialty coffee drinks to compliment the delicious meals and bites. For those planning a special event, the café offers catering services for weddings, business meetings, family gatherings, and more.
Creating a Welcoming Space
What sets Blissful Cafe & Bakery apart is not just its delicious menu, but the community-driven spirit that Heather and her team cultivate. The café is a friendly and welcoming space where people can gather, relax, and enjoy good food.
“We want people to feel like this is a place where they can truly unwind, whether they’re catching up with friends, working on a project, or simply enjoying a quiet moment,” Heather shares. “Our goal is to create a space that fosters connection, where everyone feels at home.”
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Milestones
Opening the doors of Blissful Cafe & Bakery was no small feat. What began as an idea for a small bakery quickly evolved into a full-fledged café, thanks to an unexpected opportunity at the Mill Falls location. The transition from a small bakery concept to a bustling café and bakery was a challenge, but one that Heather and her team embraced with enthusiasm.
“We’ve had a lot of challenges along the way—figuring out what the community wants, how to keep up with demand, and staying creative with our menu,” Heather admits. “But seeing the joy on people’s faces when they come in and take that first bite of a pastry or sip of coffee makes it all worth it.”
One of Heather’s proudest moments came when she realized how much the community had embraced Blissful Cafe & Bakery. “Just getting the doors open was a huge achievement for me,” she says. “And now, to see how much people love our food and our space—it’s honestly so rewarding.”
Giving Back to the Community
Community is at the heart of everything Blissful Cafe & Bakery does. In addition to serving fresh and delicious food, the café supports local organizations by providing baked goods to local fire stations, the police department, and the post office. Heather is also actively involved in the Meredith Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Meredith Program, ensuring that Blissful Cafe & Bakery is an active and engaged member of the community.
“The Lakes Region is such a special place,” says Heather. “There’s a real sense of camaraderie here. People take care of each other, whether they’re new businesses or longtime favorites. It truly feels like a village, and I’m so grateful to be part of that.”
Looking to the Future
As Blissful Cafe & Bakery continues to grow, Heather has ambitious plans for the future. Over the next few years, she hopes to expand the café, potentially opening a second location or even a standalone bakery to focus exclusively on baked goods. The café’s catering services, which have already gained popularity, will also be a key area of growth.
“We’ve seen such excitement from the community and visitors alike, and I want to keep building on that momentum,” says Heather. “I hope to continue growing, offering even more creative options, and most importantly, keeping the heart and soul of this business centered on great food and a great atmosphere.”
Why the Lakes Region?
What makes the Lakes Region truly special to Heather is the sense of history and the tight-knit community. From the picturesque landscape to the welcoming locals, the area is filled with charm and character, and Heather is proud to be part of it.
“The Lakes Region is beautiful and historic, and the people here really support each other,” she says. “It’s such a unique place, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of it.”
Blissful Cafe & Bakery is more than just a place to eat—it’s a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and community. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick coffee and pastry or enjoying a leisurely meal with friends, Heather and her team invite you to experience the joy and warmth that infuses every dish. To learn more, visit Blissful Cafe & Bakery’s website and follow them on social media for updates on new menu items, special events, and more.
Instagram: @blissfulbakery603
Facebook: Blissful Bakery & Catering
