There’s nothing better than the smell of freshly baked bread combined with a warm and relaxing ambiance. In this list, many popular bakery chains like Panera Bread and Le Pain Quotidien are examples of well-built projects completed by capable contractors. Sometimes these bakeries stand as a single restaurant; others are attached to multi-functional buildings and serve as a spot to relax and rest after a long day of shopping and running errands.

Along with the ability to build complex projects for repeat clients, the contractors in this list have been chosen based on their history of completing various projects in the restaurant sector: they have the necessary skills to create bakeries that capture the feel and shape of a brand. Many have copious experience as well as recognition from industry publications like Engineering News Records (ENR) and have been ranked on lists like the Top 400 Contractors or were honored with awards like the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC)’s Excellence Award. Aside from possessing awards, the firms on this list are managed by experienced principals who support their respective company’s abilities.

41 North Contractors

4906 Main St., Lisle, IL 60532

New construction, value engineering, interiors, and consulting: North Contractors has been providing Chicago clients with these services since 2009.  Since its recent inception, the firm has built projects for the restaurant, retail, and health markets. So far, its work has a strong reputation and the firm has proved itself as a builder who delivers quality work on time and on budget.

One of these quality projects is the rustic style Lincoln Park branch of Le Pain Quotidien. Aside from the projects that lie in the greater Chicagoland area, 41 North Contractors has clients from a number of other states.

Buffalo Construction

12700 Otto Knop Dr., Louisville, KY 40299

Started in 1997 by Scott A. Gregor, Buffalo Construction has a goal that focuses first and foremost on its clients. Thanks to this work ethic, the firm has been recognized in several states with several national clients in the commercial sector, including iHop, Krispy Kreme, McDonald’s, and Panera Bread. With these kinds of clients, the firm was able to build projects in 49 states.

Among these national clients, Panera Bread holds one of its most notable projects. Though the process of building a 4,326 square foot structure for Panera Bread had many challenges, Buffalo Construction was able to complete the ground-up construction which included the installation of a steel structure with a metal stud infill.

Cintech Construction

4865 Duck Creek Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45227

A general construction firm that has served clients in the tri-state area of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana for 36 years, Cintech Construction has completed over 450 private and public buildings valued above $500 million. The firm provides new construction, expansions, renovations, and interior finishes for numerous markets. Over the years, the firm has built many projects for well known clients like Panera Bread and Kroger.  While Panera is one of their frequent repeat clients, one of their most notable bakery restaurant projects is Holtman’s Donuts, a 2,397 square space which features high-end finishes like oak wood trim crown molding and casings.  The bakery features a 25-foot long marble top with a donut display case and transaction counter.  The flooring consists of quarry tiles and cementine tile accents. To accentuate the bakery display, the walls have subway tile from floor to ceiling . The 550 square foot kitchen is surrounded by storefront and glass so customers can watch the donut making process. Opposite this kitchen is a 35-foot long banquette seating bench fit for 20 people.

Aside from a breadth of experience in building numerous and various project types, Cintech Construction is also a green builder, giving its attention to sustainable building techniques. With a team that includes LEED-certified members, the firm has become a member of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). For more information on Cinetch Construction, you can visit their website here.

Clark Construction Company

3535 Moores River Dr., Lansing, MI 48911

Clark Construction Company was founded by Leon Clark as a firm that serviced general motors on a number of renovation projects. Now—after 70 years of providing the Michigan area with various construction services—it has been ranked as one of the Top 400 General Contractors in the U.S. The firm was also honored with numerous awards but its most notable ones are the Associated General Contractors of America (AGCA)’s 2013, 2015, and 2017 Annual Construction Safety Awards.

Today it has been repeatedly recognized as one of Michigan’s largest and most reputable full-service construction firms. Though there are many complex projects to be seen in its portfolio, its most notable work for a bakery is a Detroit branch of Panera Bread. A 6,457 square foot tenant improvement project, it was previously a space that consisted of four different spaces that were not coordinated. Work included metal studs and drywall, in-wall mechanical and electrical plumbing, heating and cooling, ceiling and lay-in lighting.

Currently, the firm has three other reliable principals: John, Charles, and Sam Clark guide its projects. John is chairman of the board, with 50 years’ worth of experience that has put him in the Michigan Construction Hall of Fame. Charles Clark is also a member of the Michigan Construction Hall of Fame and works as the firm CEO, and has 45 years of experience. Sam Clark, in turn, works as the president and has been involved in building numerous casinos and resorts.

Copeland and Johns, Inc.

5193 Old Brandon Rd., Pearl, MS 39208

Copeland and Johns Inc. has a reputation for completing complicated projects that have highly restricted construction schedules. Due to this reputation, the firm has completed projects in 12 states, primarily in the southeast. Since the firm has been around for so many years, it has built projects in markets including the commercial, government, healthcare, higher education, hospitality and gaming, industrial, religious, senior living, retail, and mixed-use markets. When it comes to the restaurant sector, its most notable project is a Corner Bakery branch in Madison. A winning project of the 2012 Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Merit Award, this 4,800 square foot space was completed within 113 days. Aside from being able to serve about 218 patrons, it also has a corner tower inlaid with clay roofing tiles and a copper finial, a bold, curved parapet, fiberglass brackets, and an EIFS cornice. To give the building a look that is unique to the brand, the firm installed canvas awnings, wood shutters, steel plant trellises, gooseneck lighting, and gas lanterns.

Thanks to these kinds of projects, and combined with the firm’s lengthy history in the industry, Copeland and Johns Inc. has been featured in the Mississippi Business Journal as both the best general contractor and the best place to work.

Corco Construction

15112 Pride Valley Rd., Little Rock, AR 72223

Licensed in 13 states across the southern region of the U.S., Corco Construction is a commercial construction company founded in 2012. It has worked on projects for different markets including the restaurant, healthcare, retail, hospitality, office, and industrial sectors. Possessing the strength of a large yet accessible organization, Corco Construction has a reputation among its clients for its ability to focus on the client’s expectations and the smooth construction process that strictly follows schedules and budgets. Because of this work ethic, the firm gained clients from various brands like iHop, Slim Chickens, and Panera Bread from the restaurant market.

Among these works, a Panera Bread franchise is one of its most notable works, one that required a complete interior finish that began with a shell space.

Cornerstone Design Build

538 Wilbur Ave., Swansea, MA 02777

One of New England’s premier restaurant and retail store builders, Cornerstone Design Build was established by firm president Bob Sanford in 1987 and has built many projects for various notable clients including Starbucks, Life Alive, and Panera Bread. The firm’s most notable work was completed for Panera Bread and the company has been doing projects for the company since 1997.

These projects span New England, from Maine to Connecticut. Some are also being updated and remodeled to fit with the brand’s self-service kiosk and drive-thru initiatives alongside building new ground-up locations. Due to the success of these projects, Cornerstone Design Build has been recognized with ABC’s Construction Excellence Award.

Elite Custom Builders

8384 3rd St., Stonewood, WV

Elite Custom Builders is a six-year-old firm that offers commercial and residential construction services to clients in North Central West Virginia. The firm has a reputation for being transparent with its clients, always providing frequent, detailed project updates. A number of its clients have praised it for being efficient and professional. The firm has several projects that demonstrate its experienced skill, and one of its most notable is the interior buildout for Bonnie Belle’s. It showcases unique drywall curving around the bakery. Principals Sean Oldaker and Rob Grabow are responsible for these projects.

Oldaker is among the contractors skilled in the installation of major commercial demountable wall projects—a skill honed during the more than 30 years of experience in the commercial and residential industry. Grabow meanwhile has over 25 years of experience in project management, the experience that has helped him manage projects in excess of $25 million. The combination of these talents is tough to beat.

Encore Construction

2014 Renard Ct. Ste. J, Annapolis, MD 21401

Encore Construction is a commercial general contractor specializing in restaurant, retail, façade renovation, office, and ground up construction projects. Encore was established in 2003 and it has built a solid reputation by consistently providing superior customer service, attention to detail, and praiseworthy results for clients in Maryland, Washington, DC, and Northern Virginia. Over the years, the firm has built a variety of projects for both national and local brands. In addition, the firm has a thorough knowledge of lease requirements and will work with owners before they sign their lease, helping them to negotiate their lease for maximum value.

Encore Construction is managed by company President Joseph McCafferty and Vice President Chris Sutherland.  Both Joe and Chris hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management and a minor in Business Management from East Carolina University.  Throughout their commercial construction career, Joe and Chris have experience working in leadership positions ranging from project superintendent to company operations.  With this experience and knowledgeable team of project managers and project superintendents, Encore continues to deliver quality projects for their clients.  For more information on Encore Construction and to view some of their latest projects, you can visit their website here.

Essex General Construction

4284 W 7th Ave., Eugene, OR 97402

A general contracting company known for doing commercial, non-profitable, public, commercial, industrial, sustainable, and multi-housing sectors, Essex General Construction has been featured in The Daily Journal of Commerce and The Register Guard for projects informed by 33 years of work in the construction industry. The firm has built commercial buildings for clients throughout Western Oregon and has participated in publicly bid projects. Its most notable work is a tenant improvement project for Sweet Life Petit bakery in Eugene.

Essex General Construction is also known for its strong commitment to sustainability and social equity. Because of this work ethic and attention to the environment the firm was awarded three 2019 People’s Choice Awards.

ESI Construction

3330 E. Louise Dr. Ste #300, Meridian, ID 83642

ESI Construction had been in the industry since Neil Nelson founded the firm in 1973. Since its inception, the firm has built projects in 43 states and is now recognized as one of the nation’s top general contractors that’s also capable of construction management and design building. Combining its wide reach and the skills it has honed throughout the years, ESI Construction has been showered with recognition. In 2014, Engineering News Record (ENR) included it in the list of Top 400 Contractors before it was named Treasure Valley’s Best General Contractor for 2015. The firm also won three of ENR’s Mountain States Best Project Awards.

Most recently, Idaho Business Review awarded the firm with three 2019 Idaho Top Projects Awards. In the restaurant sector, the firm has become a trustworthy partner for Panera Bread and has recently built three new branches in Idaho and Washington, completed a tenant improvement for a fourth, and provided maintenance service on the fifth. These branches are usually between 4,000 and 8,000 square feet.

Gais Construction

516 N. Hwy 16, Denver, NC 28037

Established in 1983, Gais Construction’s initial reputation was that of a high-end custom builder known for keen attention to detail and quality finishing. So far, the firm has worked on restaurants, breweries, educational facilities, government buildings, warehouses, medical facilities, and offices in North Carolina. When it comes to building restaurants, the firm has built spaces for brands like Papa Johns, Bellacino’s Pizza, Bagelville, Dunkin Donuts, and Millstone Bake House. Among these projects, Millstone Bake House is its most notable work. Aa 100-year-old space, the 1,836 square foot project presented a number of challenges but was still completed in 78 days.

Gaise Construction is currently guided by three principals, Lou, Michael, and Kevin Gais. Their combined skills have made the firm formidable presence in the local construction scene. Lou is experienced in various services, including project management and construction accounting. He brings 45 years of experience in business management to company and over 30 years of experience in construction in North Carolina. Michael, meanwhile, has an ability to envision and resolve onsite problems fueled by his compassion for building. Kevin, finally, is gifted with diligence and an attention to detail and material specifications.

Hildreth Construction

2754 Cumming Ave., Cumming, IA 50061

Hildreth construction has been doing commercial and residential projects since its inception in 1999. The firm has been recognized through its associations with other field professionals who helped complete the firm’s services. The firm and its team of experienced architects, engineers, owners, and consultants have completed numerous projects, including the NOSH Cafe and Eatery, Horizon Line Coffee, and Scenic Route Bakery. Aside from building restaurants, Hildreth Construction also does retail/tenant improvements alongside historic renovations for residential and commercial projects.

This firm is owned by Mark Hildreth who started his career by working for his father before starting his own general contracting firm which focused on residential homes.

Hutter Construction

810 Turnpike Rd., New Ipswich, NH 03071

Ranked as one of the largest construction companies in New Hampshire, Hutter Construction has decades of experience in the construction industry. Since its founding in 1973, it has grown through word-of-mouth marketing from repeat clients. The firm builds in the institutional, educational, healthcare, industrial, commercial, and high-end residential home markets.

Hutter Construction has continual staff development and employee training that helps the firm implement new construction technologies, trends, and techniques. The firm’s abilities have brought it awards like the 2013 Associated General Contractors (AGC)’s Safety Award and the 2010 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Maine Design Awards.

Jaco GC

420 S. Emporia St. Ste. #200, Wichita, KS 67202

A general contracting firm that has expanded its reach throughout a number of states, Jaco GC has built projects that cover almost every market in the industry including big box retail, restaurant, light industrial, office, medical, and retail. Its most notable work is for Kneaders Bakery and Cafe, a 3,844 square foot space in Wichita. This bakery and cafe’s interior has a snug and warm atmosphere thanks to features like large glass windows trimmed in wood, a cozy stone gas fireplace, a large drink station, and even a gift wrapping station. Additional customer-friendly features include a drive-thru and patio seating areas.

Jaco GC is currently owned by CEO Josh Kippenberger who has over 18 years of experience in the construction industry and holds the ASHE Health Care Construction certificate and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10 certification. The firm is also a member of the Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association (KRHA) and has been featured in the Wichita Business Journal.

JRF Construction

233 East 175th St., Westfield, IN 46074

Established in 1999, JRF Construction has supervised hundreds of building projects across different sectors including the hospitality, retail, warehouse/light industrial, office, and healthcare markets. The firm completed new construction, remodeling, or tenant finish services. Among these projects is a Panera Bread iteration. The project consisted of constructing the building shell and full site development with a local developer. The 4,000 square foot interior was finished solely by the firm.

Aside from having a highly experienced team, JRF Construction is also managed by company principal, J.R. Freiburger. A graduate with a mechanical engineering degree from the University of Michigan, Freiburger’s keen instinct for business was honed at a tender age of 12 when he worked on farms and in construction.

KBE Building

76 Batterson Park Rd., Farmington, CT 06032

Established in 1959, KBE Building works in the Mid-Atlantic and the Northeastern U.S., providing clients with services that include general contracting, construction management, pre-construction, and design building. The firm’s skill has been recognized with 14 Excellence in Construction awards from ABC, 15 Platinum STEP awards, and a place on ENR’s list of Top 400 Contractors over 25 years. Seabrook Commons in New Hampshire—a new retail center— includes the 187,000 square feet north and south retail buildings and an 11,750 square foot retail shell,  which includes the shell, site work, utilities, and tenant fit-outs for retail stores.

Company president and principal Michael Kolakowski graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University with a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. By 1984, Kolakowski worked with the construction industry, gaining knowledge that helped the firm grow through challenging economic times. Alongside him is a staff of over 120 skilled preconstruction and construction professionals.

KSW Construction

807 Liberty Drive, Suite #106, Verona, WI 53593

A 15-year old company, KSW Construction has an extensive history as a local commercial construction company and provides the best service at every project phase. KSW Construction has grown into one of Madison’s premier mid-sized commercial companies and has serviced over 250 clients, most of whom became the firm’s repeat clients. Among its numerous projects, its most notable project is likely its work on the Madison Sourdough and Patisserie. 4,000 square feet, this project provided the company with more production area and seating for 50 in a new dining area with rustic features.

KSW Construction is currently managed by company president Dean Salby who has over 30 years of commercial construction experience. This experience started when he was only 13-years old, working for his father’s construction company. Years later, he moved to Madison where he was able to personally manage projects worth over $100 million. It is thanks to this reputation that the firm has done projects for other brands like Pancake Cafe and Corner Bakery Cafe.

L5 Construction

7725 West Reno Ave. Ste. #400, Oklahoma City, OK 73034

Established in 2012, L5 Construction has completed several commercial and retail projects. Through the years the firm has thrived on providing pre-construction, new construction, renovation, and tenant finishes for clients like Sprouts Market, Duluth Trading, Floor and Decor, and Panera Bread.

To create these projects the firm focuses on delivering high-quality projects on-time and on-budget. Company principal Shawn Driver guides this skilled team with the benefit of 15 years of experience in general construction. Driver has gathered experience in construction management, new construction, renovations, and tenant finishes.

Metro Construction

1936 Vanderhorn Dr., Memphis, TN 38134

Since 1981, the Memphis area has witnessed Metro Construction’s hone its construction abilities as it built tens of thousands of projects, some eventually costing over $625M. In the beginning, the firm was most known for being an interior specialties company. Over the years, the firm became involved in some of Memphis’s most recognizable developments and historical projects. The renovations of the Peabody hotel, the redevelopment of the Peabody Place Historic Block, the construction of the Fire Museum of Memphis, and the remodeling of the historic WDIA Building are just some of the projects this firm has completed. Metro Construction has also built various other commercial projects of all shapes and sizes across the mid-south.

Metro Construction has completed projects for the education, healthcare, historic, hospitality, industrial, office, religious, retail, and restaurant markets. Its most notable restaurant project is perhaps Sweet Lala’s Bakery. Though a small space, it has a modern, minimalist touch that highlights a bakery’s smug and cozy ambiance. Alongside a wide space fit for an adequate number of customers it has an open kitchen where customers can watch bakers work, and a small loft with more seating. Metro Construction is currently managed by CEO Joe Savage. A second generation contractor, Savage has over 45 years of experience in the construction business which first humbly started from working in the paint industry for his father. Alongside Savage is a team staff of over 25 experienced estimators, project managers, superintendents, and field crews.

ML Bell

11029 Richardson Rd., Ashland, VA 23005

Established in 2004, ML Bell has experience in providing general contracting, land development, design-build, construction management to retail shops, restaurants, and local, national, and international facilities. ML Bell is able to work in 34 other states. When it comes to restaurants, ML Bell has built spaces for brands like Corner Bakery, Dunkin Donuts, and Krispy Kreme.

Even though the firm is working with such a fast-paced market, its skill and experience have helped it finish projects with practiced quality control and its organization allows the firm to provide regular updates. This combination of skill and work means that the firm is in a position to rely on repeat clients.

Molba Construction

392 Liberty St., Little Ferry, NJ 07643

For four decades since 1976, this firm has been following the same practice of devotion to its clients, providing competitive pricing for quality construction and clear communication. Thanks to this work ethic, Molba Construction clientele grew to include clients in the educational, industrial, corporate office, retail, and residential markets. So far, its most notable project is its work on Carlos Bakery at Lackawanna Center which required alterations and improvements to the 100,000 square foot space in New Jersey.

The firm has also been involved in 2,000 to 5,000 square foot build-outs for the bakery in various locations. The firm is also known for ground-up construction and client involvement in day-to day-project supervision. Molba construction is certified by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the Division of Property Management and Construction, (DPMC), the State of New Jersey Schools Development Authority, and is also a certified Small Business Enterprise.

Murray Building Co.

1900 28th Ave., South, Ste. #100, Birmingham, AL 35209

Since 2006, Murray Building Co. has been doing projects that range from small renovations, fit-out projects, to large ground-up facilities. Over the years, these services have been completed for the restaurant, commercial, healthcare, community development, and office markets. In the restaurant sector, one of its most notable projects is Hero Doughnuts in Homewood. 1,341 square feet wide, it was previously a famous music store before it was converted into the bakery it currently is. For this project, half of the space had to be renovated to accommodate the kitchen while the other side was built to seat customers.

Murray Building Co. is currently managed by company president Daniel Murray. Currently a member of the ABC and the Associated General Contractors (AGC), Murray attended Auburn University where he studied civil engineering. During the summers he worked with general construction firm Brasfield and Gorrie in Atlanta.

Neumark Commercial

161 E Saturn Dr., Unit 2A, Fort Collins, CO 80252

Having been in business for more than 17 years, Neumark Commercial is a general contractor that has done pre-construction, general contracting, and construction management services for clients in Front Range, Boulder, Denver, and Southern Wyoming. Among its various projects is its work on a Panera Bread in Cheyenne. The firm’s second project for Panera Bread, it included an expansion where the building consists of a steel structure with metal stud framing.

The interior also features wood fixtures that follow the brand’s warm ambiance while the exterior has a combination of EFIS and brick veneer. Aside from projects such as these, the firm has also built breweries, religious structures, commercial and retail buildings, gas stations and convenience stores, offices, pre-engineered metal buildings, and other restaurants.

New West Building Co.

3520 South Park Dr., Jackson, WY 83001

Known for its keen eye for details and a knack for offering creative solutions to solve design problems, New West Building Co. has been in the industry of building attractive homes and commercial structures for 15 years. Though the firm is most recognized for building beautiful custom homes, New West Building Co. has worked with some of the leading architects and engineers in the area. They’ve built projects for a variety of industry sectors, including the custom and spec home, multi-family housing, hospitality, and retail sectors. So far one of its most notable projects is its work on Persephone West in Jackson.

The firm has been named one of 2019’s Best of Jackson Hole with a Silver award as the Best Builder/Carpenter. New West Building Co. is currently managed by principal and CEO Robert Huggins. Possessing decades of experience as a home building executive, Huggins has gained a considerable amount of knowledge and expertise in operations and homebuilding. Robert is able to continuously refine processes to minimize cost, improve productivity, increase revenue, and meet goals.

NGC Group Inc.

1935 O St., Lincoln, NE 68510

Established in 2009, NGC Group Inc. is a firm whose success is largely dependent on the relationships it has built through its years as a commercial contractor. So far, its abilities and experience have gained NGC opportunities to build projects for clients like Buffalo Wings and Rings, The Mill Coffee and Tea, and Hurts Donuts Co. among these clients, Hurts Donuts Co. demonstrates the firm’s most notable project. Serving as the brand’s first Nebraska branch, this space was once an office space before it was turned into the bakery’s storefront. Other interior features include a commercial kitchen, a display counter, and an upstairs dining area to accommodate guests. Projects like these are the ones that effectively demonstrate the firm’s hands-on process and its use of modern tech that helps the team to keep that hands-on ability throughout the entire process.

Aside from general construction, the firm also does construction management, design-build, preconstruction, and post-construction services.

Nibbi Brothers General Contractors

1000 Brannan St. Ste. #102, San Francisco, CA 94103

Nibbi Brothers General Contractors was founded in 1950.  What started as a small carpenter business soon became known throughout San Francisco as one of the city’s most trustworthy businesses and by 2012 until 2017, ENR has been including it on its list of Top 400 Contractors. So far, it has built projects for various markets including the commercial, community, education, mixed-use and multi-family, historical, seismic, and waterfront markets. Its work on Boudin Bakery flagship branch in Fisherman’s Wharf is a great example. This project included the demolition of the existing single-story Boudin Bakery which was replaced with structural steel framing a two-story, 25,000 square foot building. Now, the project includes a demonstration bakery where a walkthrough history of San Francisco sourdough, Bistro Boudin, a full-service restaurant, and the traditional Bakery-Cafe.  Alongside such spaces, there is also a private dining room available for special events and a museum open for public viewing.

Aside from its skill in building various projects such as the Boudin Bakery, the firm has also built some of the greenest buildings in the bay area. Ever since 2002, the firm has required its project managers and preconstruction managers to become LEED accredited professionals. Thanks to this, ENR has included the firm in the list of Top 100 Green Contractors from 2013 to 2016 and 2018 to 2019. Currently, Nibbi has CEO Larry Nibbi and company president Robert Nibbi guiding its projects. Larry is a member of the Board of Directors for the San Francisco Center for Economic Development and has 49 years of construction industry experience. Robert, meanwhile, has used his 35 years of experience to turn the firm into one of the largest builders in the bay area.

Nutone Construction

4655 Quality Ct. Ste K, Las Vegas, NV 89103

Creativity, efficiency, and integrity: these are the fundamental principles 15-year old Nutone Construction was founded on. The firm specializes in remodeling residential and commercial properties with design-build capabilities. So far, Nutone Construction has built several projects. One of these notable works is a commercial project for Wonderland Bakery. A 1,573 square foot space in downtown Summerlin, Wonderland Bakery has an interior design that indulges your taste for fairy tales.

The shop opens with glittered epoxy floors, painted blue skies, custom millwork with a pearl finish and illuminated solid surface tops. There is also a real miniature locomotive train that runs the perimeter of the space that completes the space’s dreamy and playful ambiance. With a strong reputation built on a commendable work ethic and years of experience, Nutone Construction has clients in Southern Nevada, Northern Nevada, and Southern Arizona.

Potomac Construction

9320 Old Georgetown Road, in Bethesda, MD 20814

A 15-year old firm, Potomac Construction specializes in projects for the restaurant, retail, and hospitality interior markets. Though the firm is still young, it has a plethora of projects in its portfolio to demonstrate the skills it has honed over the years. Among these projects is its notable work on the Junction Bistro and Bakery. A 5,368 square foot build-out, it has a modern rustic style that highlights subtle sophistication.

So far, the experience of building so many beautiful projects similarly well-executed like Junction Bistro and Bakery has helped the firm win two of the 2019 Excellence in Construction Awards. Alongside the combined experience from the team, Potomac Construction also relies on principal Tom Dailey who has 30 years of construction experience in the DC Metro and Philadelphia markets.

Princeton Construction

4112 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018

Established in 2011, Princeton Construction is known as a general contracting and construction management firm with over 35 years of combined restaurant and retail experience. These long years of experience have allowed the firm to build projects for the Modern Oyster and Chophouse, Hop Social Tavern, Olive and Ivy and Sweet Dee’s Bakeshop.

Princeton Construction is currently managed by founder Charlie Hall who established the firm after spending over 16 years managing and building projects throughout Texas, Arizona, and California. During that time Charlie focused on healthcare, commercial, and residential projects. An all-rounder who has worked almost every position in the construction industry, Hall has the ability to manage projects from conception to completion. Alongside this skilled principal, the firm also holds certificates for healthcare construction, infection control, and healthcare construction project management certificates from the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE).

RDD NY

1140 Broadway, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10001

A firm that specializes in architecture, construction, and design, RDD NY is a triple service company that has been around since 2012. With a team of skilled architects, designers, and craftsmen who specialize in commercial remodeling projects, RDD NY has completed projects in a number of sectors, including the commercial, residential, and restaurant sectors.

Though the firm works on different kinds of projects, most of its work focuses on the connection of good rooms, functional spaces, and ample natural light. Alongside aesthetics, these projects also integrate sustainable design strategies and innovative materials into each project. Among these beautiful works is Fabrique, Artisan Bakery—a modern style space that exhibits minimalist interior work. The firm’s processes and its results have led to loyal clients in and around New York.

Ryan Gotee

1100 Ridgewood Dr., Metairie, LA 70001

A contracting firm strengthened by the repeat clients it has gained over the 16 years of its inception, Ryan Gotee is a firm that has a good history with its local community. Aside from having been included in Inc. 5000’s list of America’s fastest private growing companies and in New Orleans City Business First’s 2018 Excellence in Construction and Real Estate class, the firm is known for taking part in rebuilding New Orleans in 2005. Over the years, Ryan Gotee was able to build projects for various markets and has built many restaurants. One of its most notable works is the Sucré Magazine street renovation.

The firm maintains memberships in organizations such as the Associated General Contractors of America – Louisiana, AIA New Orleans, and the USGBC.

S.A. Casey Construction

621 Wilks Ave., Orlando, FL 32809

Founded in 2006, S.A. Casey Construction is known to specialize in interior improvements and commercial renovations. After 20 years of building commercial buildings throughout Central Florida, company founder Shawn Casey redirected the firm’s abilities to build quality interiors, restaurants, renovation, and ground-up work in Florida.  As of 2018, the firm has built numerous interior commercial projects with an annual volume of $10 million. As the company evolved over the years, it has won numerous awards from the Orlando Business Journal which awarded it in 2015 with a place among the Top Commercial and Residential Remodeling Companies. In 2016 and 2017, it was included on the list of Top General Contractors.

By 2018, S.A. Casey construction was included on the list of Top General Contractors and Construction Companies as well as the list of Golden 100 Top Private companies. S.A. Casey Construction can be seen in any number of locations around Florida.

SE Construction Resource

3401 A1 Hwy 153, Piedmont, SC 29673

SE Construction Resource has completed grocery stores, theaters, shopping centers, retail stores, and restaurants for South Carolina since its inception in 2009. Though the firm was established only recently, its team has a combined 60 years of industry experience and is licensed to build in areas out of South Carolina including North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Though many of its projects in these areas are quite exceptional and successfully demonstrate the firm’s years worth of honed abilities, one of its most notable projects is its work on Nothing Bundt Cakes. This firm’s projects and activities are currently managed by principals Mike Gasque and Jeff Britts who have been involved in building numerous attractive and functional structures for 13 southern and midwestern states.

Thomas Construction

5635 Osage Beach Pkwy., Osage Beach, MO 65065

Starting off in 1975 with the desire to build high-quality lake homes, Thomas Construction is a general contractor and construction manager that has become one of the most trusted commercial and high-end residential contractors in the Midwest. Thomas Construction has completed retail, hospitality, and restaurant projects. Among these projects, one of its most notable is Panera Bread in Jefferson City. Spreading over 5,000 square feet, this Panera Bread branch displays the new Panera prototypes. Built from red iron and structural metal stud framing that will keep the building strong for many years, it has an outer finish that is comprised of top of the line EIFS skin, refurbished oak wood accents, and a timeless storefront enveloping two sides. The cozy interior has the same oak wood accents used in the exterior centered around a ventless fireplace.

Thomas Construction is currently managed by owners Dan Lind and Jim Nugent. Both of them have over 40 years of industry experience to support the firm’s residential and commercial divisions. Aside from the years of experience paired with two highly skilled principals, the firm’s success can also be traced back to the team of professionals, many of whom have been with the firm for over 25 years.

Tom Stuart Construction

259 South Riverbend Way Ste. #100, North Salt Lake, UT 84054

Though this firm specializes in concrete tilt-ups, Tom Stuart Construction has been involved in the commercial and industrial market for over 30 years. During these years, it gained memberships with the AGC of Utah and the Chamber of Commerce.

Aside from affiliations with industry organizations such as these, the firm currently has approximately 150 people on its team. With this large number of employees, the firm was able to complete more than 1,000 projects like Cookie Tree. Soon, the firm started expanding its work into other nearby states.

Venture Construction

5660 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross, GA 30071

Licensed in 47 states, Venture Construction has a long list of repeat clients that now totals more than 17,000 construction projects for various markets, including the restaurant, office/institutional, and retail sectors. Since its establishment in 1969, it has completed projects for banks, institutional structures, travel centers, and retail establishments. When it comes to the restaurant niche—a specialty—Venture Construction has long been building for various national brands including McDonald’s and Burger King.

This firm was established by Ray Morris who was an honoree of the prestigious SIR award which is given to firms that demonstrate outstanding service, industry leadership, and community involvement.

Waller Corporation

2051 W. Chestnut St., Washington, PA 15301

Established in 1985, Waller Corporation does pre-construction, construction, and project management for the public and private sectors. Since the firm has been in the business for over 30 years, it has built over 700 projects for the commercial sectors. In doing so the firm gained the experience that has helped it gain a reputation as a builder with quality work you can see throughout western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia.

One of its most notable works is a new ground-up construction for Panera Bread in Morgantown. Aside from its core construction services, the firm also provides project design, site planning, and site development among its many other in-house capabilities.

Willodell Enterprises

8241 Dimond Hook Dr. Unit C, Anchorage, AK 99507

Established in 1989, Willodell Enterprises is a general contractor recognized for its quality construction, timely delivery, accurate budgeting, and client-centric service. Willodell Enterprises is a member of various industry associations including AIA Alaska, the Building Owners and Managers Association, the ABC, the Alaska State Chamber of Commerce, and the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce.

With a long history and affiliations with numerous industry organizations, the firm has been able to take on a broad spectrum of projects: high rise offices, older building renovations, energy efficiency upgrades, warehouse renovations, schools, public building renovations, custom casework, and reception stations. Among these works, its most notable bakery project was the Terra Bella Organic Cafe and Bakery.

Zeman Construction

8900 10th Avenue North, Golden Valley, MN 55427

For three generations Zeman Construction has been known in the Minneapolis area as a general contractor that provides excellent results as the product of dedication to quality and exceptional client-centered service. Because of this work ethic, the firm has gained many opportunities to work with both Fortune 100 companies and single location owners on thousands of successful projects for various markets including the hospitality/restaurant, country club, grocery, retail, non-profit, office, and industrial sectors.

When it comes to building bakeries, the bakery in Lunds and Byerly’s Eden Prairie Grocery is the best fit. Through the years, Zeman Construction was able to win awards such as the NAIOP Award of Excellence, the MN Concrete and Masonry Contractors Association (MCA)’s 2015 Concrete and Masonry Award, the American Society of Interior Designer (ASID)’s Interior Design Award, and the Excellence in Concrete and Masonry Design and Construction Award. The firm was even featured in magazines such as Architectural Digest, BizJournal and Finance and Commerce where it was mentioned for creating one of 2018’s top projects.