A Flouring Baker’s RISE at Far Rockaway Market, meet Juliana Rodas

I made a new friend at Seany Pizza. Juliana Rodas is a self-starting entrepreneur who’s hardworking, energetic, kind, and a lot of fun to be around. In my first few weeks, Juliana helped me navigate the POS register – without judgment, sigh – I’m 20 years her senior. I had a hunch that working at Seany’s would open the gate to meet new people, like Juliana in my community that I otherwise wouldn’t cross paths with. It’s so wonderful!

Photo courtesy of IG @for.the.love.of.bread

During our hours crafting pies at Pizza World, I’ve gotten to know Juliana and learned she is a baker! This year she started her own business, For the Love of Bread, sharing her homemade goods at the RISE Market. Juliana loves bananas! Her offerings include four banana options: classic banana bread, banana nut, cocoa chocolate chip banana, and peanut butter banana bread. Can we put bananas on pizza?  In addition, finds Edgemere Farm-grown zucchini baked into her soft zucchini breads and she offers sweet carrot bread. I’ve tried many of Juliana’s baked goods – the flavors are rich, the slices are thick and the bread is wonderfully moist. My favorite might be the peanut butter banana bread. It’s hard to choose a fav with so many tasty varieties and flavors! PSA: For the Love of Bread is the only vendor at the RISE market that sells coffee.

Juliana Rodas, a Rockaway native of Colombian heritage, discovered her passion for baking at the age of 11 while spending time with her Aunt Ada. As a skilled home baker and Juliana’s mentor, Aunt Ada introduced her to the craft of baking through a cherished Christmas recipe book. These memories of learning from her aunt have left a lasting impression on Juliana and continue to inspire her love of bread.

Juliana Rodas at the RISE Market

The RISE market, located on 60th Street under the El, offers a fantastic blend of urban energy, music, locally grown fruits and veggies, artisanal products, and delicious baked breads, creating a hip market experience. Visit every Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., through October 12. Supporting local businesses strengthens our community by creating jobs and building meaningful connections among neighbors. Come through and say hi to Juliana and the other talented vendors at the RISE Market (@riserockaway) this weekend!

To learn more about Juliana Rodas’ bread business check out this article in The Wave.  And follow For the Love of Bread on Instagram – @for.the.love.of.bread