Chanho Lee, co-owner of Rocky Dessert Market, is making waves in Calgary’s culinary scene with a passion for crafting exceptional desserts. Alongside his mother, Lee’s dream of opening a bakery has become a reality, offering customers a delightful array of classic treats with a creative twist. The desserts are crafted to perfection, striking a balance between flavour and affordability.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Rocky Dessert Market! We sell classic, beloved desserts such as cookies and cheesecake with interesting flavours and twists.
What made you want to do this work?
I have always wanted to open a bakery with my mother. We both love cooking and baking. We are very excited that our dream have come true.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I am a dessert lover and have a sweet tooth. But I found that most popular desserts these days are made for social media rather than actually tasting good.
I wanted to open a bakery specializing in desserts that can be enjoyed every day at affordable prices.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Our target demographic is anyone who loves and is looking for not overly sweet desserts.
We also do a lot of business with local businesses and offices thanks to our convenient location in downtown, Calgary.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We are a dessert bakery. We have one retail storefront. We sell through other various channels including third-party delivery apps, our own website, and local farmers markets.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
Our storefront is located at 400 5 ave SW, Calgary in Roslyn Building. You can also order our delicious goodies through our website.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
Many customers ask who bakes all the goodies every day. All the baked goods are made and baked by me, my mom and our hard-working staff and I can’t thank enough.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
Coming from an Asian heritage, family is the most important thing to me than anything else in the world. Being able to work with my family and doing what I love are the best parts of my work.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
I can’t think of any jokes off the top of my head right now. But I usually tell my customers that I used to weigh 100 pounds before I started. (I am 5’9 and weigh over 200 pounds)
Where can we follow you?
Our Instagram handle is @rockydessert, and our website is rockydessert.shop
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
I love Mari Bakeshop, La Boulangerie and Buon Giorno!
