H&H Bagels brings iconic New York flavors to Santa Monica

The legendary H&H Bagels, a staple of New York City’s culinary landscape since 1972, is set to make its West Coast debut in Santa Monica, California, in 2024. This expansion marks a significant moment for both the brand and the Los Angeles bagel scene, which has been experiencing a renaissance of its own in recent years.

H&H Bagels first opened its doors on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and quickly became known for its classic New York-style artisanal water bagels. These bagels are proofed, kettle-boiled, bathed in cold water, and oven-baked to achieve a glossy exterior and chewy interior, characteristics that have made them a quintessential part of New York’s food culture. The brand’s prominence is further solidified by appearances in popular TV shows like “Sex and the City” and “Seinfeld”, as well as movies such as “You’ve Got Mail”.

The Expansion Strategy

H&H Bagels has been on an expansion tear of late, with new locations planned not only in Santa Monica but also in major cities across the United States, including Washington D.C., Chicago, Tampa Bay, Jacksonville, Orlando, Dallas, Miami, Boston, Detroit, and Knoxville. This ambitious growth plan is part of a new franchise setup that allows the company to operate outside New York. The bagels are kettle-boiled and parbaked before being frozen and shipped to these new locations from a 20,000-square-foot production facility in Queens, New York.

The Santa Monica location will be situated on Montana Avenue, replacing the long-held spot of Marmalade Cafe. This new outpost will join other notable bagel shops in Los Angeles, such as Yeastie Boys, Pop’s Bagels, and Courage Bagels, which have been drawing crowds with their unique offerings. The arrival of H&H Bagels is expected to add a new dimension to the already vibrant bagel scene in Los Angeles.

A Historic Venue for a Modern Icon

Interestingly, the Santa Monica property that will house H&H Bagels has a rich history of its own. Constructed in 1909 as a power facility for Thomas Edison’s electric company, the building has served various purposes over the years, including a theater and an Italian restaurant. The property, located at 3116 2nd Street, was sold for $2.5 million and is now being transformed into a bagel shop by an entrepreneur who owns Uber Bagels, a chain with locations across Maryland.

The building, known as the “Powerhouse,” has been designated a historic landmark by the Santa Monica Conservancy, ensuring its preservation. The interior roof structure, which is original to the building, is protected from demolition. This blend of historical significance and modern culinary innovation makes the new H&H Bagels location a unique addition to Santa Monica’s landscape.

The Future of H&H Bagels

H&H Bagels aims to become the best-known bagel shop in the country, a goal that seems increasingly attainable given its current trajectory. The company has already opened new locations in New York City, including spots at Penn Station and Kips Bay, and plans to continue its nationwide franchise rollouts. The bagels served at these new locations are shipped from the production facility in Queens, where up to 9,000 bagels are produced per hour.

Founded by Helmer Toro and Hector Hernandez, H&H Bagels has had its share of ups and downs, including a bankruptcy filing in 2011 and the closure of its original Upper West Side shop. However, under the leadership of CEO Jay Rushin, the brand has been revitalized and is now poised for significant growth. The new stores will serve a variety of bagel options, including breakfast and lunch sandwiches, catering to a broader audience and shifting the business focus from breakfast to lunch.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to visit Los Angeles, the arrival of H&H Bagels in Santa Monica offers a unique opportunity to experience a piece of New York City’s culinary heritage on the West Coast. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, make sure to stop by and try their iconic bagels, which have been a favorite among New Yorkers for decades.

For occasional travelers, we recommend exploring the vibrant food scene in Santa Monica. From the bustling Montana Avenue to the scenic Ocean Park Boulevard, there are plenty of dining options to satisfy your culinary cravings. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a New York-style bagel while soaking in the California sunshine.

For expert travelers, consider delving deeper into the history of the locations you visit. The H&H Bagels shop in Santa Monica, for example, is housed in a building with a rich historical background. Understanding the history of such places can add a layer of depth to your travel experience, making it more enriching and memorable.

In conclusion, the arrival of H&H Bagels in Santa Monica is more than just a new dining option; it’s a cultural exchange that brings a beloved New York tradition to the West Coast. Whether you’re a bagel aficionado or simply looking to try something new, this is an exciting development that promises to delight and satisfy.