Meet Asa Walker — By Amy Townsend
Flour on his hands one minute, a coffee in the making the next, Asa Walker is learning every corner of 81 Bakehouse Bakery & Cafe, one shift at a time.
As the second youngest of the Walker siblings, he’s been part of the family business since day one, starting in the kitchen and now making his way to the front, picking up the art behind your daily dose of coffee.
His mornings start early. First up, putting away the clean dishes left out to dry from the day before, followed by a quick bite to eat before jumping into dough-making for those fan-favorite Pop-Tarts. Once that’s wrapped up, Asa heads to the front to work alongside Jude, learning the techniques that go into crafting the perfect coffee drink. It’s a part of the job he genuinely enjoys, the details, the timing, and the process behind every cup.
And if you haven’t tried one of the Bakehouse sandwiches yet, Asa would probably tell you it’s time. Made alongside his brother, these sandwiches are stacked high and full of flavor. His go-to order? No hesitation, Ham & Provolone Roll. As for coffee, his pick might surprise you… a Chocolate Orange Latte. It’s got you curious, doesn’t it?
Of course, what customers see is just part of it. Behind the scenes, it’s early mornings, constant motion, and yes… a lot of messes. And Asa will be the first to tell you, he’s not exactly a fan of waking up that early or how messy things can get around the Bakehouse.
Case in point, the time he was changing out the flour tubs and ended up with a cloud of flour not just everywhere, but somehow under the freezer too. Let’s just say… it was a cleanup to remember.
But once the mess is handled and the day gets rolling, Asa sees the bigger picture. There’s something about creating something for customers to enjoy that makes it all worth it. Whether it’s food, coffee, or simply being part of the team, he takes pride in the work.
Known for being one of the first to jump in wherever help is needed, Asa has earned a reputation as one of the hardest workers in the building. He’s quick to learn, quick to act, and always ready to lend a hand.
Outside of the Bakehouse, Asa enjoys playing basketball, spending time outdoors camping and fishing, and staying focused on school. Life keeps him busy in more ways than one.
With an interest in numbers and a future possibly in finance or accounting, Asa already has his eyes set on what’s ahead.
At just 15, he’s learning what it means to show up, put in the work, and take pride in what he does. He’s proving that age doesn’t define work ethic.
With big goals ahead and a steady drive to match, one thing’s certain this is just the beginning for Asa Walker.
