BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - The Connecticut-born viral sensation known as PopUp Bagels has come to the Magic City, and local operator Alex Bishop says it’s not your traditional bagel shop.
“We don’t do sandwiches. We don’t slice them or toast them,” Bishop said. “But, we sell fresh, hot bagels with quality ‘schmears’ all the time.”
Those bagels are baked throughout the day, making sure they’re fresh and warm, no matter when the craving hits. Bishop said fresh bagels are a big part of PopUp Bagels’ identity.
“They’re coming out of the oven every five, ten minutes,” he said. “You know, we’re never going to sell a cold bagel. We don’t even want to sell a bagel that doesn’t look right. We’re more willing to give it away when it’s not quite to our standard.”
Though the menu is simple, it’s big on flavor thanks to the company’s signature “Schmears.”
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The cream cheese spread comes in scallion, salted butter, brown sugar cinnamon and more. For a little more kick, Jonas Brothers Burning Up is a promotional flavor featuring hot pepper parmesan cream cheese.
After starting as a local sensation in Westport, Conn., founder Adam Goldberg built a business model that limited waste, maximized value and prioritized the customer experience. That formula worked so well in New York City, it attracted celebrity fans and investors including Paul Rudd, Michael Phelps and Michael Strahan.
Bringing that unique atmosphere - and their “Grip it, Dip it and Rip it” catchphrase - to Birmingham comes with techno music, dancing workers and the sweet smell of fresh, hot bagels.
Behind it all remains the simple philosophy.
“We’re trying to provide great vibes and even better bagels,” said Frank Trujillo, marketing and event coordinator.
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The PopUp Bagels Birmingham location is located at 329 Summit Blvd.
For more information, visit popupnbagels.com.
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