Anyone who frequents the neighborhoods of Vila Prudente, Vila Zelina and the surrounding area has surely heard of the famous corner that houses the region’s favorite bakery. Right there, on the corner that joins Ibitirama and Rua dos Ciclames, is the gigantic Cepam.
Some locals call it “the biggest bakery in Latin America”. Although the nickname is unofficial, there’s no denying the immensity of the 2,500m² of space the business has to offer.
In addition, Cepam was the first bakery to win the Padocaria competition, which elects the best bakeries in the capital, in 2021. In addition, in 2023, it was awarded the title of Best Bakery in the East Zone! Shall we get to know it?
Among friends
The bakery’s origins date back to 1968, when four friends founded a 60m² shop in Vila Prudente. The name was inspired by the Colégio Estadual Professos Américo de Moura, or CEPAM, where the quartet had studied.
Bakery, patisserie, restaurant, pizzeria and mini-market
Over the years, the bakery has expanded naturally and taken on directions beyond baking. Today, for example, as well as easily getting a misto quente and a latte at the counter, you can order a four-cheese pizza to share with the family or a plate of steak with rice, beans and French fries. The possibilities are immense.
In all, there are around 5,000 items available to the consumer. Right at the entrance, a kind of market sells a variety of items, including ice cream, cheeses and charcuterie. Further along, the counter offers a multitude of breads, sweets, savory snacks and pies.
Do you know what panettone smells like? It comes from Cepam!
As well as making all of the above, Cepam is also responsible for producing Village products. Anyone passing through the neighborhood in November and December is sure to smell the distinctive smell of panettone in the oven. Also, at Easter time, the aroma of the chocolate used to make the traditional eggs takes over the neighborhood.
Other Village products – such as honey buns, chocolate crunchies and the wonderful caramelized popcorn – are available at the Cepam market.
Convenience
The bakery has four free parking lots to accommodate its customers’ vehicles. Inside, there are more than 500 seats available between the counter and the lounge with tables. Definitely worth a visit!
Where: Rua Ibitirama, 1409 – Vila Prudente