You may think you know English muffins. Heck, you might eat one every morning for breakfast. But if youâve never had an English muffin from Model Bakery, which was founded in St. Helena, California, in 1984 by Karen Mitchell and her daughter Sarah in a space that's been home to a bakery for more than a century, youâve never REALLY had an English muffin. Just ask anyone whoâs tried one â theyâll tell you. Even Oprah is obsessed!
So whatâs so good about these English muffins, which are a big part of the reason why Model Bakery has since opened two additional Napa Valley locations? They start with an airy, focaccia-style dough, which is rolled out, dusted with cornmeal, and (hereâs the kicker) griddle-fried in clarified butter until puffy and golden brown on both sides. And if theyâve managed to turn the humble English muffin into one of the tastiest treats on earth, just imagine how good their cookies and other baked goods are!