Like a Local - Casey Callahan & Timishia Goodson

From hidden gems to classic experiences, our local friends are sharing their favorite ways to spend time in the Hershey Harrisburg Region. Part 1 of our “Like a Local” series features Casey Callahan and Timishia Goodson, co-owners of Raising the Bar Bakery in Harrisburg’s Midtown neighborhood.

Casey and Timishia’s Quick Hits

These talented ladies wake up early to make the best lemon bars and croissants in town! When customers ask where they should explore next, the small business owners are quick to share their top tips.

Casey’s Picks: Midtown Scholar Bookstore (wander for hours!), Jackson House (B.E.S.T. burgers), and Rummagers (vintage finds for all ages.)

Timishia’s Picks: Riverfront Park (river views and it’s free!), High Dive (best happy hour), and Midtown Cinema (laid back vibes.)

Read on to learn more about Casey and Timishia, Raising the Bar, and more tips for discovering the city and region they love.

Raising the Bar Bakery

If you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax with your morning coffee and some of the best pastries in the Capital City, Raising the Bar checks those boxes and more. Casey and Timishia proudly serve delicious scratch-made breads and pastries alongside beverage options from local coffee shops and other small businesses. They glow with excitement when they talk about creating flavors that their guests will love. Collaboration comes easily as the pair have known each other for 20 years, first working together at another Harrisburg restaurant before joining forces to launch Raising the Bar at the Broad Street Market and then the standalone bakery they are in today on 3rd Street.

Gotta try: The lemon bars and the croissants. As much as Casey and Timishia like to change the menu to offer new items, they know the lemon bars and croissants are fan favorites that must remain staples. Being a staple doesn’t mean there can’t be a twist! The croissants will show off different flavors and ingredients throughout the year.  

More Itinerary Suggestions

More bakeries! Casey and Timishia love supporting other small businesses, and they are happy to shout out local bakeries that are offering a variety of sweets and treats. They suggest Salted Butter Bakery on 3rd Street for cupcakes, Alvaro Bread & Pastry Shoppe (Peffer and N. Front Street locations) for breads, cookies, gelatos and dinners, and Just Baked Cakes & Pies inside the Midtown Scholar Bookstore for delicious pies and tarts.

Restaurants & Roasters

Both Casey and Timishia are fans of smaller, more intimate dining experiences. For date night, note. bistro & wine bar is one of their top suggestions. For a laid-back family meal, Casey recommends Stoney Creek Inn in Dauphin. Find a seat of the deck for a great view of the creek. Don’t sleep on Mellow Minded Café on the square in Linglestown. The BYOB spot offers smoothies, salads, sandwiches and a variety of breakfast items – all in a cozy environment where guests are encouraged to spread positivity and kindness.

You can find some of Little Amps Coffee Roasters’ products at Raising the Bar, and Casey and Timishia are big fans of stopping by Little Amps (two locations: State & 2nd St + 1836 Green Street) to enjoy great coffee when they have a moment away from the bakery.

Hidden Gems

Timishia was on a walk in Harrisburg when she came across Sevansa on Walnut Street, a small shop featuring natural soap and handmade gifts. On a recent mural walk, she marveled at how many colorful pieces of artwork are condensed in just a few short blocks. “I live here but you don’t always see what’s right around you,” she says. It’s a great reminder to slow down and take in the unique art and architecture of the city. It tells so many stories!

For Casey, “more people need to know” about Jackson House. The local favorite at 1004 N. Sixth Street has been making the city’s best burgers and sandwiches since 1982. She doesn’t go very often so she can “savor” the experience every time!

Timishia’s Midtown Itinerary

Broad Street Market: Grab lunch from one of the many food vendors at the historic market.

Explore Vintage Stores: Check out The Meadow and Rummagers for some cool finds.

note. Bistro & wine bar: End the night with a delicious meal and the perfect glass of wine. If the weather is nice, grab a patio table!

Next time you’re in Midtown, stop by Raising the Bar. Casey and Timishia will have fresh croissants and maybe more tips for your travels around Harrisburg!