Wild Bay

Hours: Wild Bay is a small, local business that started in Baltimore and has grown significantly over the years. Originally, three friends brewed kombucha in a small juice shop space, making a unique urban version of a family recipe. They spent evenings and weekends sharing samples with local cafes and shops, gradually gaining popularity in neighborhoods like Hampden and Remington. Their dedication paid off when Whole Foods began carrying their kombucha in August 2015, prompting them to leave their jobs and focus full-time on their growing business. By 2016, Wild Bay outgrew their original space and moved into a larger 4,000-square-foot brewery after winning a funding pitch in a business competition. Their rapid growth continued, expanding from 150 to 700 locations within three years. In 2019, they moved again to a 13,000-square-foot brewery in Baltimore to keep up with demand. Their commitment to community and the environment is evident through their donation of excess products to food rescue programs and their partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, with 1% of sales donated to protect the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Wild Bay's kombucha is praised for its tasty and satisfying flavors such as Elderberry, Mango Peach, Tart Cherry Ginger, and Apple Spice. Customers appreciate the friendly atmosphere, often visiting for tastings and tours, and enjoy the variety of flavors suitable for both first-timers and seasoned drinkers. Their mission is to support local business, promote health, and give back to the community, embodying the motto: Drink Local, Live Wild.

1. Baltimore, Maryland