“We want to create a space that’s welcoming, comfortable, and unlike anything else around,” begins Debi Hatton, owner of Crust & Crumb. 

Nestled in the heart of Norton Commons at 6301 Meeting Street, her artisan bakery and café offers more than just incredible baked goods — it’s a place where community and creativity collide.

Growing up in Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky, Debi earned her first degree in accounting from the University of Kentucky before settling in Louisville with her ex and five children in 2005. But she didn’t stop there.

“I went back to school in 2008 and got a BS in Nursing,” Debi explains. “After working as a bedside nurse at U of L for a couple of years, I got my master’s in Nursing Education from Duke and became a Nursing Professor at Bellarmine while working on my PhD.”

Being a professor was a fulfilling career for Debi until the global pandemic upended life. 

“Teaching wasn’t fun anymore after COVID,” Debi recalls. “And after my dad died of ALS during that time, I realized that life was too short not to be doing what I love.” 

That’s when she turned to baking — a passion she’d nurtured for years. She started small, selling sourdough bread and pastries at the NoCo Farmers Market four years ago. Over time, her offerings expanded, and when the opportunity arose to open a brick-and-mortar location, Debi jumped at the chance.

In July 2024, Crust & Crumb opened its doors, transforming Debi’s vision into a bustling café and bakery offering artisan breads, pastries, and café fare.  From sourdough bread and flaky croissants to breakfast sandwiches and soups, there’s something for everyone. 

“We offer a full menu, all made and baked in-house,” Debi shares. “Our bacon and egg breakfast sandwich is a bestseller, and we also have a full drink bar with coffee and tea options.”

Seasonal menus, catering services, and carryout are also available, making Crust & Crumb a go-to spot for social gatherings or a quick treat.

What sets Crust & Crumb apart is Debi’s attention to detail and thoughtfulness for each customer who walks through her door. That devotion shines through in the curated retail goods offered alongside the menu, perfect for pairing with the bakery’s creations.

“We strive to provide the best customer service experience every single day with every single customer,” Debi affirms. 

Creating connections within the NoCo community has been central to Debi’s vision for Crust & Crumb. Her team uses creative touches, like their Oat Foundry split-flap sign, to promote local events and highlight other small businesses in the neighborhood. In addition, Crust & Crumb gives back through donations to charitable causes, a tradition Debi plans to continue. 

“The community has been so good to us, and we’re grateful to contribute however we can,” she affirms.

Of course, running a bakery comes with its challenges, from staffing to scaling operations efficiently. While the transition from farmers market to storefront hasn’t been without hiccups, Debi emphasizes the importance of perseverance — and a little perspective: “It’s been challenging to accept that I won’t make everyone happy, no matter what I do. I like to be perfect.”

Her advice to locals? “Eat more croissants!” she suggests with a laugh. “But seriously, remember we’re here for your next gathering. We offer catering and can help make your event delicious.”

For Debi, the hard work is all worth it. “Even with the long bakers’ hours, there’s nothing I’d rather be doing!” she concludes with a smile.

Visit Crust & Crumb at 6301 Meeting Street unit 101 or online at www.crustandcrumbky.com. For catering inquiries, please call 502-338-9824.