Maria Austin leads the bread and pastry program at The Brunch Guy and is the founder of The Bread Gal, an artisan bakery in Old Town Saginaw. Her craft is rooted in slow fermentation, meticulous lamination, and a no-shortcuts, scratch-made philosophy. At The Brunch Guy, Maria’s work shows up everywhere, from our daily sourdoughs and brioche buns to flaky croissants, cardamom buns, buttermilk biscuits, English muffins, and seasonal desserts. She partners closely with the kitchen to develop pastries and breads that actually serve the menu. Built for texture, toast, and sauce, so every plate lands balanced. Beyond production, Maria mentors up-and-coming bakers, drives seasonal pastry drops, and ensures the pastry case is as welcoming and bright as the dining room.