Black Bear's Phil McDonald

In this episode of the SOWAL House podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Phil McDonald, the creative force behind Black Bear, a beloved local bakery and coffee shop in South Walton. Join us as we uncover the captivating origin story of Black Bear and delve into the inspiration behind its name. 

We also explore Phil's incredible partnership with Dave Rauschkolb and unravel the secrets behind his unconventional approach to baking bread and cooking pizza.

Phil takes us on a journey through the birth of Black Bear, sharing the passion and determination that fueled his vision for creating one of the best bakery and coffee shops in South Walton. We learn how the name "Black Bear" was chosen, symbolizing strength, resilience, and a deep connection to nature. Phil's dedication to his craft is palpable, evident in the exceptional quality of the pastries and coffee served at Black Bear.

A highlight of the conversation is Phil's unique experimentation with baking bread in a pizza oven and later cooking pizza in a bread oven. Phil's willingness to push boundaries and explore unconventional techniques showcases his culinary expertise and adventurous spirit.

The partnership between Phil McDonald and Dave Rauschkolb is an integral part of Black Bear's success story. We explore the remarkable collaboration between these two culinary visionaries and how their combined talents have elevated Black Bear to its esteemed status. Phil shares insights into their shared values of community, hospitality, and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of creating a warm and welcoming space that goes beyond just serving delicious food and coffee.

Join us for an engaging conversation filled with stories of inspiration, collaboration, and gastronomic delights. Discover the origin story of Black Bear, unravel the meaning behind its name, and learn about the extraordinary partnership between Phil McDonald and Dave Rauschkolb. Prepare to be captivated by Phil's adventurous baking techniques and the delectable treats that have made Black Bear a cherished destination for locals and visitors in South Walton.