Lutra Cafe & Bakery will open permanent spot after successful pop-up

• Lutra's baked goods can also be found at several farmers markets and coffee shops throughout the Triangle.

Zoom in: Lutra was created by Chris McLaurin, the former chef de cuisine at Poole'side Pies.

• When Poole'side closed in 2023, McLaurin took it as a sign to go all-in on opening a bakery in Durham — an idea he had been toying around with for years.
• The original focus of Lutra has been a rotating mixture of sweet-and-savory buns, inspired by memories of his mother making orange buns during his childhood.
• The morning buns have proven popular with flavors like orange and brown butter rosemary, and seasonal offerings like king cake for Mardi Gras.

What to expect: The new space will give Lutra the capacity to expand its menu to even more pastries, like soft pretzels, and a sourdough bread program.

• It also plans to add a breakfast and lunch menu, with items like sausage-egg-and-cheese breakfast sandwiches, eggs Benedict and salads, as well as a weekend brunch menu.

Location: Lutra will be located at 312 Blackwell St., suite 102 in the ATC's Noell Building.

• That puts it right next to Ment Beverage Co. and nearby several other local eateries, like Parker & Otis, QueenBurger and the future Fullsteam Brewery.