NORFOLK, Va. - After five years, a popular French bakery has served its last customers in Norfolk's Neon District. Next up? A move to neighboring Ghent.
After moving to Norfolk from France in 2018, Jacqueline and Yvan Devulder opened La Brioche on Granby Street in 2019.
The couple's authentic, fresh-made French breads and pastries quickly became popular with people in the Neon District and beyond. However, behind the flaky croissants and delicate macarons, the Devulders say the size of their leased space was challenging to heat and cool.
After finding a space at 1415 Colley Avenue that better suited their needs, the couple decided to move their beloved business out of its original home earlier this year.
Sunday, they greeted Neon District customers with their usual big smiles for the final time before closing for the big move.
"It's sad," said Jacqueline. "(But) our customers are going to follow us, so we stay in Norfolk. That's the best."
Yvan, who spends most days baking bread and desserts in the kitchen said he's grateful for the community's support over the years.
"We discovered the real strength of the Norfolk community and it's fabulous," he told News 3.
The Devulders don't have an starting date for their Colley Avenue location just yet, but believe they will open in the next few weeks.
