After training in France and Switzerland, destinies collided in the 1980’s at a well-known local bakery in Seattle, Washington when Marc & Deborah Randolph met Cynthia McLachlan and formed the partnership that would become Pastries by Randolph.
Marc’s extensive experience in French Pastries and Showpieces made him the perfect partner for Cindy’s skill in cake decorating. Having previously opened the kitchen at the Windows of the World and then at the Kennedy Center in DC, Marc went ahead of the other to run the iconic Watergate Pastry Shop in DC where he was then joined by Deborah and Cindy. Creating their own vision was the natural next step for the talented trio. Marc brought his teacher, mentor, and now, friend, Michelle Choudun from France to train Deborah as a Chocolatier. All 3 were dedicated to a venture that utilized their skills to prioritize family– and so it has. With 4 children and 8 grandchildren to date, the pastry shop has a bonded love throughout the generations.
For over 30 years, Pastries by Randolph has served the Northern Virginia, DC & Maryland communities with pride – valuing employees that have been with them loyally along the way.
With the marriage of Marc & Deborah’s son, Justin to Penina Szojchet the idea to get the shop certified kosher was born. Kosher certification was granted in 2018 through DC Kosher after a yearlong process of eliminating any non-kosher ingredients or products from the kitchen. This allowed for the Jewish community and Penina’s extended family to be able to enjoy the delicacies of PbR. The couple has 2 children and reside in Rockville, MD.
Pastries by Randolph is a true reflection of Marc, Deborah and Cindy, and is the heart and soul of their respective families. The shop isn’t just a business, it’s the result of a lifetime of study, dedication, and love for the community in which it serves.
