OUR MISSION
THE BUSY BEE PHILOSOPHY
zero refined sugars and grains
We rely on low-glycemic natural sweeteners that provide a steady energy flow without blood sugar spikes, keeping your body in balance.
anti-inflammatory fats
Quality is in the details. We cook exclusively with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, chosen for its high Omega-3 content and powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It is a heart-healthy foundation for every dish we create.
mineral-rich seasoning
We season with intention. By using only sea salt and pink Himalayan salt, we ensure your meals are rich in over 88 essential trace minerals, aiding in optimal absorption and electrolyte balance.
high fiber for heart & gut health
We rely on low-glycemic natural sweeteners that provide a steady energy flow without blood sugar spikes, keeping your body in balance.
Optimal Digestion & Bioavailability
We respect the process of preparation. To ensure our meals are as easy on the digestive system as they are nutrient-dense, we soak all beans and slow-cook them with kombu. This traditional technique maximizes mineral absorption and ensures optimal digestion.
Conscious & Pasture-Raised Sourcing
We exclusively source humanely and pasture-raised animal products and organic produce through Lancaster Farm Fresh Cooperative. By working with this non-profit we ensure a superior nutrient profile—making it better for the animal, the earth, and you.
non-toxic kitchen standards
Your health is our priority, right down to the cookware. We cook exclusively on stainless steel to ensure that no harmful chemicals or coatings are ever transferred to your food. Clean food belongs in a clean environment.
Rooted in Nature
Nature knows best. Our menus rotate with the seasons to ensure peak nutrient density and vibrant, health-forward flavors. By sourcing what is fresh and local, we honor the natural cycle of wellness.
our story began at a farmer's market
The Genesis of the "Bee"
Busy Bee Organics began at the Grove Street Farmers Market with a mission rooted in personal transformation. After navigating the harmful stigmas surrounding food that led to an eating disorder, founder Michelle Berckes found healing through the Natural Gourmet Institute. By shifting her focus to Culinary Medicine, she realized that food should be a source of vitality, not a source of stress.
The name Busy Bee was born from a simple truth: we are all "busy bees," and in the rush of life, nourishment often takes a backseat. Michelle founded the company to remove that hurdle—handling the nutrition, shopping, cooking, and cleaning so you can spend your time doing what you love, fueled by food that truly loves you back.
Impact & Expansion
As our "food as medicine" philosophy gained momentum, so did our community impact. During this era, we founded the nutritional food program for The Brunswick School, successfully nourishing their growth from 20 to over 360 students. Once the program was fully established, we sold and handed over operations to focus on expanding our own reach.
This period also marked the launch of our signature "Buffins" and the evolution of our local meal delivery service, bringing health-supportive meals directly to doorsteps across the city.
Establishing a Haven
In August 2019, Busy Bee found its permanent home in The Heights at 451 Palisade Avenue. We designed this cafe to be a sanctuary—a 100% gluten-free, anti-inflammatory hub where everyone can eat with confidence and joy, free from the stress of meal prep or dietary restrictions.
A Wellness Destination
Over a decade since that first market morning, Busy Bee Organics has evolved into a comprehensive wellness brand. From our Signature Beetox programs to local catering and culinary medicine, we remain dedicated to the same core belief: when we change the way we look at food, we change the way we live.
MEET THE HIVE
MICHELLE BERCKES
Since 2014, I have been on a mission to take the effort out of eating well. As a natural food chef and the founder of Busy Bee Organics, I’ve grown a small farmers market passion into a cafe and meal delivery service rooted in the philosophy of "food as medicine."
Having navigated the noise of nutrition misinformation myself, I am dedicated to providing a stigma-free space where nourishment meets convenience. Whether through our tailored meals or a seat in our cafe, my goal is to empower you with delicious, organic, and health-supportive choices that meet you exactly where you are.
HANNAH ADKISON
My Busy Bee journey started in 2022 when I moved to the Heights and fell in love with this neighborhood and cafe.
I went from loyal customer to part-time barista, and now am happy to serve as full-time General Manager. I love our vibrant food, delicious drinks, and most of all, serving our amazing Busy Bee community!
I'm so grateful to play a role at the heart of this bustling hive and lead this incredible team in this neighborhood I call home.
Jessica Phillips
A native of the state, Jessica developed a deep appreciation for the restaurant industry during her childhood and eventually pursued a professional education at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. After graduating in 2006, Jessica spent nearly twenty years refining her skills in elite environments, ranging from fine dining at Restaurant Serenade to managing high-volume operations for institutions like Harvard and Google.
Her food style and life motto follow the same mantra. “Work hard, play hard.” A true workaholic but a big kid at heart, who believes food and life should be fun, humble, and adventurous.
Tiandra “Tee Tee” Floyd
With over a decade of industry experience, Tiandra Floyd is a cornerstone of the Busy Bee kitchen team. Rising from dishwasher to culinary lead through dedication and passion, she specializes in quality-driven, nutrition-forward cooking that promotes wellness.
A cosmetology student as well, Tiandra balances her culinary expertise with a creative commitment to self-care, always bringing intention and positive energy to her family, her community, and every meal she prepares.