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Stanley Hudson always knew the value of a good lunch. Now, the man behind one of The Office's most beloved characters is making sure the San Fernando Valley has one more place to get one.
Actor Leslie David Baker, who played the famously deadpan, pretzel-loving Stanley on NBC's long-running workplace sitcom, has become the co-owner of a new Honey Baked Ham location in Sherman Oaks. The shop, at 14427 Ventura Boulevard, quietly opened on June 22, with an official grand opening celebration scheduled for July 11.
Baker is partnering on the venture with Sherman Oaks entrepreneur, music producer and brand strategist Tony Vennie, who says the brand has long been part of his family's holiday traditions.
While Honey Baked Ham is still synonymous with Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter dinners, the company has spent the last several years expanding its everyday offerings. In addition to its signature spiral-sliced glazed hams and smoked turkey breasts, the Sherman Oaks store serves sandwiches, salads, heat-and-serve family meals, desserts and catering for office lunches and events.
"People know me as Stanley, but I've always had an appreciation for good food and great communities," Baker said in a statement announcing the opening. "What excited me about this opportunity was helping bring a beloved brand to more people while creating a place where neighbors can gather year-round. HoneyBaked has an incredible legacy, and I'm proud to be part of its next chapter. Plus, this job comes with a lot more sandwiches and a lot less time in meetings."
Fans of The Office will appreciate the irony, given that Stanley spent much of the series trying to avoid meetings, eyeing the snack table and counting down the minutes until lunch, making Baker's latest business venture feel oddly on-brand.
The July 11 grand opening will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tastings and giveaways, with Baker on hand to celebrate. (According to the company, several celebrity guests—including members of The Office cast—have been invited.)
If nothing else, it's proof that Baker isn't retiring to Florida just yet, unlike Stanley Hudson.