Our Story

In 1995 Jeff Swanson and Julie Hollingsworth teamed up to pursue their first scratch bakery/café venture. After months of looking, they came across a storefront with character and personality in Shorewood, WI. This location became home to the first City Market in 1997. The enthusiastic response and support of metro Milwaukee allowed the café to expand in 2000 with a second location in Wauwatosa. Almost 17 years later, there are three City Market locations, based on the same beliefs that inspired the first store.

Then, and now, the premise behind the cafes is the philosophy shared by Jeff and Julie. They believe guests deserve made to order food, fresh pastries, and handcrafted breads, along with a cup of locally roasted coffee, in a welcoming environment where the community can gather. They knew back in 1997 that using premium ingredients would distinguish their menu items, and that is still true today. The cafes take great care to bring the freshest products to the table, from Angus burgers to vegetarian offerings.