Nestled in the heart of Veneta, Oregon, stands a remarkable establishment that has become my go-to spot for delectable treats and heartwarming ambiance: Our Daily Bread Restaurant and Bakery. This charming venue, housed in a beautifully refurbished old church, is a harmonious blend of rich history and culinary innovation. It's more than just a restaurant; it's a testament to the community's resilience and creativity.

The journey of Our Daily Bread began in a rather divine setting. The building, originally a Pentecostal church, was relocated to Veneta in the 1940s from an armory in Corvallis.

It's not just the structure that tells a tale of transformation; it's also the spirit of the place that resonates with the echoes of its past.

After serving as a place of worship and then as a home for various small businesses and galleries, the church lay dormant. That was until Rick and Linda DeAngelo recognized its potential and breathed new life into it, transforming it into a bakery that they fittingly named "Our Daily Bread."

The present owners, Tim and Catharine Perkins, who took over in 2005, elevated the bakery to a full-fledged restaurant, emphasizing fresh, quality ingredients and from-scratch cooking. Their vision was clear: to create a space that's not just about food, but about experience, about the merging of past and present in a warm, inviting environment.

Upon entering, you're greeted by an ambiance that is both inviting and nostalgic. The Perkins' dedication to preserving the church's charm while offering a diverse and tantalizing menu is palpable. Here, every dish tells a story, each ingredient a testament to their commitment to freshness and quality.

Today, Our Daily Bread is much more than just a bakery or a restaurant. It's a community hub, a place where families gather, where meetings turn into feasts, and where casual rendezvous are marked by laughter and good food. The Perkins' commitment to quality and hospitality shines through in every aspect, from the architecture to the menu.

Speaking of the menu, it's an epicurean's delight. The menu, brimming with signature sandwiches, salads, seafood, and burgers, also features innovative soups and homemade bread that are simply irresistible.

The breakfast menu, a favorite among locals, features classics with a gourmet twist.

Take the Traditional Eggs and Potatoes - a simple yet perfectly executed dish, where the eggs, cooked to your liking, accompany freshly baked country red potatoes, making a hearty start to the day.

There's a dish that has particularly stolen my heart – the Eggs Benedict. The eggs, poached to perfection, sit atop a freshly baked English muffin, draped in a velvety hollandaise sauce that is rich yet balanced, a true masterpiece of breakfast cuisine.

For the meat lovers, The Very Meaty Scramble, brimming with ham, bacon, sausage, and cheddar cheese, is a delectable choice, especially when paired with their homemade country gravy.

Lunch and dinner at Our Daily Bread are equally impressive. The Chicken Pot Pie, with its tender chicken and vegetables in a savory sauce, encased in a golden crust, is comfort food at its finest. For seafood enthusiasts, the Prawns Tempura Platter and Fried Oyster Platter offer a delightful crunch and a burst of ocean freshness.

The burgers, especially the Northwest Delights, topped with Swiss, avocado, and mushrooms, are a must-try for any burger aficionado.

Not to forget the vegetarians, the Tofu Patty San, a Perkins family recipe, offers a delicious, healthy alternative.

But it's the baked goods that truly showcase the bakery's roots. The cases are filled with decadent treats that remind me why this place is often referred to as the "gem of Veneta." From the ambiance that harks back to its spiritual beginnings to the culinary delights that keep evolving, Our Daily Bread is more than just a dining spot; it's a sanctuary for the soul and the palate.

But perhaps the true stars of the menu are the desserts. The Bread Pudding, a delightful twist on the classic, uses their own cinnamon rolls as the base, creating a dish that's both familiar and novel. The Chocolate Hazelnut Torte is a chocolate lover's dream, with layers of moist chocolate cake and ganache, complemented by fresh hazelnut whipped cream.

And let's not overlook the Mixed Berry Pie, a celebration of local berries, where the tartness of the fruit perfectly balances the sweetness of the buttery crust, especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. It's a dish that, like many others here, speaks to the heart of Oregon's rich agricultural heritage.

Eighteen years after its transformation into a full-service restaurant, Our Daily Bread continues to enchant locals and visitors alike. It's a place where history meets modern culinary art, where each meal feels like a part of something larger – a story, a legacy, a community. And for someone like me, who has found a second home in its warm embrace, it's a reminder of the simple joys of life, served one plate at a time. From savory breakfasts to indulgent desserts, every bite is a reminder of the passion and dedication that Tim and Catharine Perkins have infused into this remarkable venue.

If you're eager to experience the unique blend of history and culinary delights at this Church-Turned-Bakery in Oregon, here's all you need to know for your visit. Nestled at 88170 Territorial Hwy, Veneta, Oregon, the bakery welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday. On Wednesdays and Sundays, it opens its doors from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, offering a perfect setting for a morning treat or an afternoon indulgence. For those who prefer to visit later in the day, the bakery remains open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

To get in touch with the bakery, feel free to call at (541) 935-4921. Their staff are known for their friendly service and are happy to answer any questions you might have. For a glimpse into their delicious offerings or to learn more about the bakery's unique setting, visit their website at OurDailyBreadRestaurant.com. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler passing through, this bakery is a must-visit destination that combines the tranquility of a historic church with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked goods.

Our Daily Bread stands as a shining example among the numerous local businesses fostering positive change in Oregon. If you’ve got a favorite spot or business in mind, don’t hesitate to nominate them—they might just be highlighted in an upcoming feature for That Oregon Life. Be sure to stay connected with That Oregon Life on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on the most remarkable destinations, attractions, and happenings in the Beaver State.