Behind Rotari Bakes: A family run Nottingham bakery creating bespoke cakes, bakes and memories

Words: Amelia Allen
Photos: Natalie Owen
Wednesday 20 August 2025
reading time: min, words

In the heart of Nottingham, where creativity meets comfort food, Rotari Bakes was born; not from a lifelong baking tradition, but from an unexpected journey of reinvention and family ambition

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Credit:

Rotari Bakes - Photo by Natalie Owen

The story begins in 2020, during the uncertain days of the pandemic, when many were searching for a new purpose. For one local Nottingham family, that purpose came in the form of homemade baked goods and a shared vision. What started as a kitchen hobby soon evolved into a thriving bakery in Nottingham, known for its bespoke cakes.

From making a few birthday cakes here and there, where one side of the family brought creative flair and the other brought the entrepreneurial drive, their shared vision sparked a partnership to bring us Rotari Bakes. Within just three months, the business began to gain real traction through building a loyal following on social media.

The name, ‘Rotari Bakes’, stems from their Romanian family heritage, which adds to the multicultural qualities of their food and values. This is a part of what makes them different, they combine family tradition and inspiration from the city to create their baked goods. Whether it's the rich traditional chocolate layers of an Amandine cake or a fluffy milk sponge filled with coconut cream, Rotari Bakes celebrates classic Romanian flavours with a modern twist.

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Credit:

Rotari Bakes - Photo by Natalie Owen

By the end of 2021, it was time for a leap of faith. The family decided to leave their full-time jobs and commit to building a successful business - so they took on a space on Carrington Street. It was a bold move, but one that paid off.

Rotari Bakes has continuously understood the importance of creating thoughtful cakes before scaling up. For this family, it wasn’t just about selling cakes, it was about building a Nottingham based company that thrived in customer experience and creativity. That’s why they also offer emergency or last-minute cakes for those who may have forgotten a birthday or anniversary.

Whether it is a couple’s show stopping wedding cake, a graduation cake, or a custom dessert table for a baby shower, Rotari Bakes delivers food that feels personal and memorable. Each creation is hand-decorated, made with thoughtful care and often reflects a client's milestone. This means their cakes aren't just desserts, they are edible memories.

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Credit:

Rotari Bakes - Photo by Natalie Owen

Recently, they have expanded their Carrington Street store and acquired an additional unit dedicated solely to baking. This expansion will allow them to manage larger orders and continue developing their national delivery. Whether it’s a classic red velvet or a chocolate pistachio cherry cheesecake, these cakes are freshly baked to order and available for nationwide delivery. Each one is securely packaged with temperature regulating foil to ensure maximum freshness.

Separating their creative process from the shop front experience means there is more space in store for customers to create moments and memories, a perfect study cafe in all accounts. This reflects their belief in putting people first, showcasing the personal nature of their service and their cakes.

Rotari Bakes also offers a wide range of products, including fresh sandwiches, event catering, ice cream, and vegan cakes. With a focus on variety, they aim to bring something special to every occasion and everyone.

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Credit:

Rotari Bakes - Photo by Natalie Owen

One of their most popular products are their bespoke fruit cakes. These handcrafted creations may look like real fruit, but inside they’re rich, indulgent cakes designed to surprise and delight. The cakes aren't just desserts, they’re an experience.

Challenges have been part of the journey, from building a team to maintaining consistent quality but they’ve met each one with the same spirit that started it all: optimism, hard work, and love.

Today, Rotari Bakes is a story of family, passion, and bold decisions. Whether you're searching for bespoke cakes in Nottingham, event catering or just a really good sandwich made with love, Rotari Bakes serves a slice of something special.


rotaribakes.co.uk

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