about us

Curt “Chip” Bawden has come full circle, fulfilling a passion with his gourmet treat shop in a former bank in beautiful downtown Ellison Bay. “The Vault”—where you can “bank on goodness”—is a family-oriented shop that offers gourmet popcorn, flavored potato puffs, soft-serve ice cream, pizza by the slice or by the pie, a root beer float bar, exotic jerky, candy and more—all in an enchanting indoor and outdoor experience. 

Curt worked for six summers in Door County beginning in 1979 earning his hospitality stripes at Wilson’s, Woodland Village (now Somerset Inn), and Bay Ridge Golf Course. He ran a popcorn business that traveled the county and also helped out at the family’s cherry orchard and farm to support himself while attending UW-Stout’s Hotel & Restaurant program. Post college, Curt spent 35 years in corporate food service working for companies such as Marriott and Bon Appetit at corporate facilities such as Walt Disney Studios, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and The Getty Center – Los Angeles. 

The Vault’s gourmet products include popcorn from Minocqua Popcorn & Puffs, made both on-site and offered pre-packaged. Minocqua Popcorn & Puffs have been known for nearly 20 years for creating exciting flavors such as our Wisconsin standard Cheese (using real cheese!), Caramel, White Chocolate Pretzel, Kettle, and Lemon Bar Puffs to name a few. 

Gnomes play an important part of The Vault both in whimsy and in legacy. Curt’s dad, Curtiss Lenten Bawden, who passed away March 2nd, 2021, enjoyed depicting gnome adventures through his expert carving of the little forest people. Many of his original carvings will be found on display. You will also find a giant gnome called “Lenten,” the store mascot. He offers a picture-perfect moment for all to remember their visit to The Vault. The large back yard features a gnome’s nest playset and cornhole games. So, there is plenty of fun to be had for all, even the four-legged family members as the outdoor area is pet-friendly!Vault Door County is a specialty food business that offers unique and exotic flavors from around the world. Our products are carefully selected and sourced from small-scale farmers and producers, ensuring that we always provide the freshest and most authentic ingredients. 

We partner with Minocqua Popcorn & Puffs to bring you convenient grab & go bags, as well as various flavors of popcorn & puffs made fresh at The Vault. Samples are always available at The Vault, so come on in today and find your favorite flavor (or several favorites!)