Locally owned businesses are part of what makes Hernando so unique and feel so homey. From our locally owned florist shop to our dog groomer, there’s a certain familiarly feel whenever we step inside. We grow closer together as a community when we support these local businesses; relationships are made, names and faces are remembered. So, it always feels like we lose a little bit of ourselves and our community when a business located in Hernando closes permanently. Sadly, after contributing much to the community, The Baker’s Corner has decided they will be closing after operating in Hernando for a little over a year.
The Baker’s Corner was Hernando’s go to place for all things cafe related. From coffee, to sweet and savory baked goods, to even BBQ options and acai bowls, they had everything to community could ever crave. What made them stand out amongst competition was their dedication to being 100% gluten free. The Baker’s Corner began when the founder, Leslie King, discovered her gluten intolerance after “years of unexplained illness and countless visits to doctors.” She didn’t let this life-changing diagnosis hold her down. Instead, she worked tirelessly in the kitchen, learning how to make gluten free food just as yummy as it’s gluten counterparts. Soon, “friends were lining up for her creations,” and what began as a personal journey for herself was becoming much, much bigger. After working in high end restaurants in Missouri, she found her way to Mississippi, and on February 3rd, 2025, she opened The Baker’s Corner second location (the first being in Memphis, Tennessee).
The Baker’s Corner didn’t stop at just serving the community good gluten free food, but they also contributed their own money back into supporting Hernando. For instance, The Baker’s Corner has helped fund Hernando High school’s journalism department, which includes Eye of the Tiger, yearbook and The Golden Report, and HTSN, by buying a business ad tier.
Unfortunately, on March 2nd, 2026, it was announced that the dream King built for herself with her family and friends is closing permanently on March 7, 2026. The decision as to why has not been made public, and there have been no pervious signs of a shut down. Ultimately, it appears to be a personal reason as to why they’re closing; one that the husband and wife owners wouldn’t want the public to be concerned with. Because the reason for closing has been so vague, the community has expressed how confused and heartbroken they are over the sudden announcement, with most giving their farewells in Facebook communities such as Hernando Happenings and on post The Baker’s Corner Facebook account has made.
The Baker’s Corner is the only 100% gluten free restaurant in Hernando, and arguably the most welcoming and enjoyable in all of Desoto County. Hernando’s community is going to miss the cozy, southern charm of The Baker’s Corner, and we’re definitely going to miss their dedication, transparency, and the delicious, made from scratch, 100% gluten free menu.
