GALT, CA (MPG) - Nestled in Old Town Galt, Wild Heart Bread Co. is bringing the warmth and charm of small-town baking to the community. Founded by Lindsay Ortez, a Lockeford native with a deep love for sourdough, the bakery reflects her passion for quality, creativity and connection.

The journey began at home, where countless trial-and-error loaves eventually led Ortez to earn her cottage baker’s license and offer porch pick-ups for neighbors. Demand quickly grew, prompting a move into a commercial kitchen in Lodi and a collaboration with the local business Pop the Bubbly. After two years of growing her clientele under the name Artisan Art’s Bread, Ortez followed her intuition to Galt, opening Wild Heart Bread Co. on Nov. 1, 2025.

Sourdough is at the heart of the bakery, with more than 20 rotating varieties made using organic flour and slow fermented for 18+ hours. Customer favorites include Roasted Garlic, Parmesan + Herb, Jalapeño Cheddar and the classic Plain OG.

The bakery also offers a daily selection of baked goods, including cinnamon rolls, cookies, quiche, lemon bars and muffins. Fresh soup is served every Thursday, with salads coming as soon as the weather warms.

Looking ahead, Ortez plans to introduce hands-on bread classes, continuing a popular tradition from her Lodi days. Dates will be announced on social media, with hopes of beginning in late spring.

The bakery has already felt the warmth of the community.

“Galt has such a beautiful energy and appreciation for its locals, and I feel so honored to share my love for feeding people. We’ve grown to know so many faces in such a short time and look forward to welcoming many more,” Ortez shared.

The focus for the year is on evolving the menu, experimenting with new seasonal breads, holiday treats and other baked goods, while staying true to the bakery’s heart. Wild Heart Bread Co. will also participate in Saturday Market season, bringing fresh breads and treats to the community each month.

Currently, Wild Heart Bread Co. (411 C St.) is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with pick-up orders available on Wednesdays. Weekend hours are limited to allow Ortez to continue her passion for photography, balancing both her baking and artistic pursuits.

With every loaf, pastry and treat, Wild Heart Bread Co. brings a little bit of small-town charm (and a lot of love) to Galt.