About Us
It's Good to be BAD!
Welcome to BAD Bakery in Columbia, Tennessee, where donuts get a glow-up and meals are just as much the star.
We’re not your average bakery. We’re bold, a little sassy, and always delicious. Here, you don’t just eat a donut, you build it. Whether you’re crafting your dream combo or grabbing a BAD classic, everything is freshly made, joyfully different, and full of flavor.
And yes, we do more than donuts. BAD Bakery is a full bakery and café, serving breakfast and lunch alongside gourmet donuts, rolls, and rotating gluten-free options. Many of our meals are built on our signature triangle donuts, turning something familiar into something totally unexpected. Add in Nordic-inspired flavors, craveable small plates, and great coffee, and you’ve got a menu made for lingering.
Founded in 2023, BAD Bakery is a playful, creative, and slightly rebellious take on the traditional bakery. Think American comfort with a touch of Nordic hospitality. Come for the donuts. Stay for the meals. It’s good to be BAD.
Our Story
BAD Bakery started with a simple dream: to turn everyday donuts into something unforgettable.
Founders Rachel and Brian (self-proclaimed donut nerds) set out to bring something new to the table. Inspired by the warmth of Scandinavian baking traditions and the creativity of a build-your-own experience, they created a place where joy and flavor collide.
What began as a family passion has become Columbia’s go-to spot for donuts with attitude, hearty meals, and a little sweet chaos. From our signature cardamom sugar to fried chicken on a donut bun, every item is crafted with love and the freedom to make it your own.
Why Nordic-Inspired?
We’re not a traditional Nordic bakery, but we are inspired by the bold flavors, exploratory spirit, and generous hospitality of the North.
Scandinavian food has always balanced comfort with curiosity, and that’s where we like to play. Think warm cardamom, bright lingonberry, hearty sourdoughs, smoked meats, and fresh herbs like dill and parsley. These are simple, time-tested flavors, but when paired with a little creativity, they become something unexpected.
At BAD Bakery, “Nordic-inspired” means honoring quality and tradition while giving ourselves permission to experiment. It’s about gathering around the table, feeding people well, and not being afraid to try something new. We take those classic flavors and combine them with Southern creativity and a sense of adventure, turning the familiar into something boldly different.
Where comfort meets curiosity.
Contact Us
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have a question, feedback, or a fun idea to share, the right person is just an email away.
General Manager
Tara Swartwood
tara@bad-bakery.com
Marketing
Rebecca Buchholtz
rebecca@bad-bakery.com
Interested in working at BAD Bakery?
For current job openings, please call the bakery directly or visit our Careers page to see available positions and apply.
Voted Best Donut Shop in Columbia, TN in 2024!
We are so excited to share that BAD Bakery has been voted the Best Donut Shop in the Columbia Daily Herald Official Community's Choice Awards! Stop by and see why we’re the best! We are so grateful to everyone who voted for BAD Bakery—your support means everything to us!
Every day, we work hard to create delicious, unique donuts and provide the best service possible.
If you're new to town or just looking for your next favorite sweet spot, we’d love for you to give us a try. At BAD Bakery, all of our donuts are crafted in-house, fresh daily, and we’re proud to be a local bakery that’s all about creativity and quality.
Thank you for making BAD Bakery not just an award-winning shop but also a valued part of this community. Come try Columbia's Best Donut Shop!
Open Hours
Monday: 7:30AM-2PM
Tuesday: 7:30AM-2PM
Wednesday: 7:30AM-2PM
Thursday: 7:30AM-4PM
Friday: 7:30AM-6PM
Saturday: 7:30AM-6PM
Sunday: 7:30AM-2PM
