This is rather bittersweet. I always meant to add McMillan’s Bakery to the Hall of Fame, but for so many reasons, I’m often delayed or unable to put the time required into my passion projects (of which the Hall of Fame very much is!)
After almost a year on hiatus due to family matters that needed to be taken care of, I finally did bring back the project in March. And while I did know that eventually McMillan’s day would come (they announced last year that it would eventually be closing), I didn’t know exactly when. I had hoped to include them to the Hall of Fame before the closed. Alas.
Last Sunday, May 18th, McMillan’s Bakery closed its doors for the final time. As expected, an outpouring of love, memories, and support for the beloved 86-year-old institution flooded the internet from all corners. Emotions ran high—after all, for many, life without McMillan’s was unimaginable. It had been a go-to bakery for generations.
Sadly, I couldn’t go one last time. The lines were around the block as people said their final goodbyes. Fortunately, last November, when it was first announced, I found some time to stop by so I was able to say goodbye. It’s a shame that this is the end after 86 years.
As noted in their message above, it was clearly a heartbreaking decision for the family to close the bakery. But as they said, “all good things must come to an end.” It didn’t feel comfortable selling the business to someone else—it simply wouldn’t have been the same. And it would’ve been difficult for anyone to live up to such a esteemed legacy. And so, McMillan’s Bakery is no more—gone, never to be enjoyed again.
McMillan’s Bakery is not only deserving due to its longevity, but also because it served generations who came to depend on it for cream-filled donuts, birthday cakes, holiday desserts, and so much more. A cherished place that brought joy and created lasting memories for so many. Now, it takes its place in the pages of South Jersey food history. 🙁
By all means, share your fondest memories and or simply pay tribute in the comments. Farewell, McMillan’s Bakery. South Jersey will miss you forever.
Please note: this is a fun project that the editor of South Jersey Food Scene (who runs this site very part time) started in 2023 and will contribute to as time allows.
There are SO MANY deserving entries into the Hall of Fame and, knock on wood, we’ll get to all of them over time. Do not be offended if you don’t see a spot added yet. Give us time!
SJFS is dedicated to food, dining, restaurants, and drinking in South Jersey. Got a news tip? Email southjerseyfoodscene@gmail.com.