Bagels & Co., known for its flagship bagel shop in Northern Liberties, is set to expand its reach to South Philadelphia and Penn State by 2024. This move is part of the company’s ambitious plan to open 20 new locations across the country within the next year. Two previously announced shops in Midtown Village and on Temple University’s campus are also expected to open before the end of this year.
With existing locations in Northern Liberties, Fishtown, Brewerytown, and Center City, Bagels & Co. offers a unique array of cream cheese flavors, including bacon cheddar, birthday cake, and black truffle, creatively displayed like gelato in an ice cream parlor. Whenever the company opens a new shop in a city, they introduce seasonal cream cheese flavors that reflect the local culture, including options inspired by local sports teams.
Bagels & Co. bakes over a dozen varieties of bagels daily, ranging from classic options like everything bagels to unique choices such as French toast and cheddar habanero. Their menu also includes coffee, specialty espresso drinks, sandwiches, parfaits, and other to-go items.
The expansion plan even extends to Florida, demonstrating the brand’s growth aspirations. Glu Hospitality, the parent company of Bagels & Co., as well as Añejo Philadelphia and other restaurants, was founded by Derek Gibbons and Tim Lu in 2019. Gibbons attributes their success to the universal appeal of bagels and cream cheese, especially with the enticing flavors they offer.
Bagels & Co. initially opened its Northern Liberties location in June 2021 and later expanded into Fishtown in early 2022, followed by openings in Brewerytown and Center City during the summer. Glu Hospitality also owns popular establishments like Leda’s Cocktail Lounge, Figo, Izakaya by Yanaga, and Brewerytown Food Hall, which opened earlier this year.
Operating daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., the bagel shops adjust their hours for holidays, providing a convenient and delicious option for bagel enthusiasts across the region.