A new Medford home for Great Harvest Bread Co. couldn't feel spacious for long, given its crowds of fans, among them readers of Oregon Healthy Living.

"We strive to run a very customer-focused business," says co-owner Lisa Allen. "That means reflecting the values of our customers who seek out real food served by really nice folks."

A menu of sandwiches and soups debuted in Great Harvest's larger digs at 203 Genessee St., which opened last year. All sandwiches come on bread baked fresh daily and milled from whole grains at Great Harvest.

Great Harvest continues to build on customer demand for "gluten-less" bread suitable for many sufferers of celiac disease, an autoimmune reaction to proteins in wheat, rye and barley. Apple-carrot muffins joined gluten-less scones since the first of this year.

"Most of all, we will continue to treat our customers as valued friends because they truly are," says Allen.

A nationwide chain based in Montana, Great Harvest has more than 200 stores, including 10 others in Oregon. See www.greatharvestmedford.com.

Other favorites: Sunstone Artisan Bakery, Ashland; Deux Chats, Ashland