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Top 100: Restaurants - Bruegger's Bagels

Bruegger's Bagels is number 33 on our 2014 Top 100: Restaurants list.

February 10, 2015

Bruegger's Bagels is number 33 on our 2014 Top 100: Restaurants list.

While other bakeries are busy trying to complicate and perfect their recipes, Bruegger’s Bagels hasn’t changed the five-ingredient formula of its New York style bagels in its 30-year history. And why should it when customers still are creating such a demand that the 300-unit chain is on an upswing after three decades? Already spanning 26 states, Bruegger’s plans to open 13 locations this year, 22 in 2015 and another 100 by 2018.

Although the chain hasn’t touched its bagel recipe, it has modernized its design and added new menu items in the last few months. All new stores, for example, have open-kitchen designs featuring a “visible bake theater,” said Judy Kadylak, director of marketing. “The open kitchen and plate-glass windows allow guests inside and out to watch bagels being freshly baked, celebrating our artisan heritage,” she said. “But this design element is also very much on trend — industry experts predict by 2020 the division between the front and back of the house could disappear.” 

Along with the new physical design, the chain has updated its logo, point-of-purchase materials and to-go packaging and is in the process of updating the catering packaging. The menu also is getting an upgrade, including an espresso bar staffed by a full-time barista. Other new offerings include salmon and Hot Smoked Wild Salmon, appearing in new salads and breakfast and lunch sandwiches.