Nora Allen is a James Beard Award semifinalist and the owner and founder of Mel the Bakery, a James Beard Award finalist establishment. As a passionate champion of regional grains, Nora values the essential role of local ingredients to connect us and build stronger, more equitable communities.
Through her work at Mel the Bakery, Nora has embraced sustainable baking practices, sourcing and milling grains from regional producers. She demonstrates how local partnerships can create positive change throughout the food chain. Her commitment to building community through food extends beyond her bakery, as she actively shares her knowledge and expertise to help others embrace regional grains and thoughtful sourcing.
Nora brings her deep understanding of both the technical and social aspects of baking. She sees baking as a medium for sharing these regional grains and amplifying the stories behind the farmers, millers, and makers that provide them.