In June of 2005, Chef/owner Ann Duckworth, “Duck” and business partners, Cindy Diamond, Kim Larsen, and Anne MacDonald all leased a tiny 400 square foot space in the newly developed East Decatur Station (the former Biolab complex).  The original plan was to turn the space, which had most recently been a small flower shop, into a commercial kitchen and bakery for Duckworth’s catering company, Cosmic Kitchen, and a home for Ducky’s Cookies, the partner’s online and wholesale bakery.

During construction we found ourselves taking lunch breaks on the sidewalk in front of the building and really enjoying the view of the courtyard and the relaxed atmosphere.  We decided to share the sidewalk and the courtyard with the public, so we put up an awning and bought some patio tables and chairs. The result was Duck’s Cosmic Kitchen which opened in November of 2005, offering freshly baked breads, bagels, cakes, doughnuts, cookies, and other desserts, catering, and a full service bistro with a menu of homemade sandwiches, pizzas and small plates.

In 1990 Duck threw out her microwave and has not allowed one in her kitchen since.  A committed “naturalist”, and proponent of the “slow food” movement, she made all of her baked goods, and other dishes, from scratch.  This philosophy and commitment is the foundation of Duck’s Cosmic Kitchen.  Believe it or not, we are one of the few restaurants that does not use a microwave in any part of our cooking or baking processes. 

We are committed to using only the freshest, highest quality ingredients available.  None of our food items contain artificial preservatives, or trans-fats. We use only Extra Virgin Olive Oil and real butter for all of our baked goods and menu items. 

All of our meats are cured, baked, and/or slow roasted on-site. We make and bake our bread using a 48 hour process so each loaf has time to develop a wonderful homemade character and texture.  And the same goes for our “Ultimate Bagels” named by the AJC’s Ultimate Dining Guide 2006.  We make them the old fashion way, shaped by hand, boiled and then baked.

To maintain a high level of quality and freshness, we make everything to order and in small quantities.  That’s why we suggest you call ahead to order your bread or any items you may want in larger quantities.  We will gladly make them for you.