What began as a way to unwind after difficult days in human resources has grown into one of the capital’s best-known independent bakeries. Caryna Camerino’s journey offers an inspiring example of Dublin business success, built through handmade food, community support and a willingness to start small.
A career change shaped by food and creativity
Caryna Camerino arrived in Ireland from Canada intending to stay only briefly after college. Instead, she built a life in Dublin, initially working in human resources for an engineering company that supported her visa and employment permit.
Baking became her personal release from workplace stress. Influenced by her Roman father’s passion for authentic Italian cooking, Camerino developed a deep appreciation for quality ingredients and carefully made food. Over time, home baking evolved from a hobby into a serious business idea.
Her early opportunities came through farmers’ markets, including a stall in Ranelagh. With practical guidance from the Health Service Executive, she was able to complete the necessary steps to operate a food business without facing the extensive bureaucracy she associated with larger cities.
Dublin business support helped Camerino Bakery grow
The bakery’s development reflects the strength of Dublin’s close-knit entrepreneurial community. Camerino says wholesale customers often arrived through recommendations rather than formal sales pitches, showing how personal connections and word of mouth can help independent businesses establish themselves.
A chance meeting in a Dublin coworking space also introduced her to Mark Rafferty, co-founder of GoCar. That connection helped Camerino access peer-to-peer finance, including €10,000 for coffee-making equipment. She subsequently secured what was described as the lowest interest rate recorded by the lender at that time.
Local suppliers have remained central to the bakery’s identity. Camerino has worked with McNally Family Farm, Elliott’s Cash & Carry and Roasted Brown, helping create a supply chain rooted in the Dublin region.
A changing food culture
Over her years in the city, Camerino has seen Dublin become more multicultural and adventurous in its tastes. Customers are increasingly familiar with specialist coffee, international flavours and high-quality ingredients, giving food entrepreneurs greater freedom to experiment.
That cultural change has also created space for independent cafés and bakeries that focus on authenticity, consistency and hospitality. For Camerino, Dublin’s relatively accessible start-up environment made it possible to test an idea, build a customer base and grow at a sustainable pace.
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Visit Camerino Bakery in Blackrock
Today, Camerino Bakery operates in Blackrock, County Dublin, serving handmade cakes, brownies, pastries, bread and coffee in a relaxed café setting. Its chocolate raspberry cheesecake brownies have received Gold at the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards, while the bakery has repeatedly received recognition from McKenna’s Guides and the Bridgestone Awards.
The business has also attracted attention from national publications, including listings connected with Ireland’s best shops and things to do in Dublin. For residents and visitors, a trip to Blackrock offers the chance to enjoy locally produced food while supporting an independent Dublin business.
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For people considering how to work in Ireland or build a company here, Camerino’s story is a reminder that successful ventures can begin with a modest market stall, a strong product and genuine community relationships. Camerino Bakery’s rise is ultimately a celebration of Dublin business, local suppliers and the enduring appeal of good cake.
