Meet Anita Mirabella-Potter of Mirabella’s Bakery in Tewksbury

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anita Mirabella-Potter.

Anita, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Mirabella’s Bakery was started in 1972, by my parents, Paul and Maria Mirabella. My parents immigrated from Italy when they were teens. My dad began working in bakeries in the North End, and eventually started his own business, in Wilmington, Massachusetts. The bakery has grown from a one-man shop to our location here in Tewksbury. Sadly, my dad passed away in 2000. My family and I have continued his in his footsteps.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
As in all businesses, I imagine, there have definitely been struggles. My dad broke off from his job, in another bakery, in Somerville to open his first bakery, in Wilmington, Ma. After two years of battling the oil crisis, in the early 70’s, he moved his young family to Tewksbury.

A few years later, my dad discovered that not only did living in “the county” bring on seasonal allergies, he was also allergic to flour! At this point he could change his career. He rearranged the baking schedule, and persevered. Through hard work, my parents grew their business to the success that it is today. Our biggest challenge was overcoming the loss of my dad in 2000. He was the hardest worker, and was able to lead his team, to produce effectively. Having been a friend and farther figure to many of his employees, it was difficult for us to recover. We miss him dearly! Even after 17 years, many former employees and loyal customers share stories of my dad’s kindness and generosity. Thanks to his dedication and strength of his business, we have continued his legacy. Over the years, weather and equipment failure continue to be challenging.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Mirabella’s Bakery, Inc. – what should we know?
Our bakery the quintessential Italian and American pastry. We bake everything from bread to wedding cakes. Some our specialties include biscotti, macaroons, rum cake, ricotta pie, and cannoli. It continues to evoke the old world charm. Although we decorate beautiful, modern style cakes, you can still come to us to pick up a container of my mom’s tomato sauce, or your favorite childhood dessert.

What sets us apart is still use my dad’s original recipes that are not only delicious, but comforting. We also try our best to emulate his customer service and charitable giving. My favorite part of the day, like my dad, is working with our amazing customers.

My parents taught us the importance of service to others, through their generosity. They always donated to town events, sponsored teams, and provided desserts to charitable causes, especially The Muscular Dystrophy Association. We have many fond memories of the MDA telethons and parades. My dad and his team always made huge cakes, that were shared at the Oakdale Mall, for MDA. We continue his spirit, by adding our Cancer research to our charitable giving, after losing our dad to lung cancer.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My mom, the matriarch of our family, kept our home and supported my dad through his business endeavors. We could not have survived without her love, care, and especially her scrumptious meals! We are also blessed with many family and friends. Our many dedicated employees were and continue to be the back bone of our business. Of course, we are still thriving due to our loyal customers.

Contact Info:

• Address: Mirabella’s Bakery
  836 Main St.,
  Tewksbury, Ma 01876
• Website: Mirabellabakery.com
• Phone: 978-851-4441
• Email: mirabellasbakery@gmail.com
• Facebook: Mirabella’s Bakery

Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.