Starter your engines. Sourdough is soaring in popularity, and according to Google Trends, so is interest in making your own — surpassing 2020's pandemic-induced explosion in interest earlier this year.

If you’re among those baking some new habits into your life via flour and yeast, here are a few ways to get in on the action in NOVA:

Arlington Public Schools hosts frequent classes for beginners, the perfect way to get newbies introduced to the process.
Once you're a little further along, Knead and Know will help elevate your sourdough game with more advanced lessons — and have your kitchen smelling delightful. Heads up: These sell out quick.
Or bring the party to you with a private class from The Flour District. Whatever the celebration, swapping flowers for flour would make a night to remember.

For those who prefer their loaves made by an expert, there’s a bunch of spots around town to get your fill of doughy goodness. We’re fans of Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe's black forest sourdough rye, the classic sourdough loaves at Great Harvest Bread Co., and the spectacular fig and olive sourdough at Brutto Breads. If you want to sample the goodies from these spots, make sure to check out their ordering options. Sometimes, you need to plan ahead.

Pro tip: If you’re picking up some tasty treats at any of NOVA's bakeries, from our experience, the apron-laden are typically willing to offer some friendly advice for beginner bakers eager to learn more.

Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know.