Cleveland Bagel’s Come a Long Way in Three Years, and They’re Not Done Growing Yet

As seen in: Cleveland Scene, Photo by Frank J. Lanza

It’s been three and a half years since partners Dan Herbst and Geoff Hardman peddled their first homemade bagel at the Gordon Square Farmer’s Market — and that bagel truly was homemade, fabricated as it was like all the rest back then at Herbst’s apartment.

This past fall the duo opened a production facility and retail storefront with the help of partner Alan Glazen, whom the pair met while filming Cleveland Hustles. Since the beginning, the goal of Cleveland Bagel Co. has been to produce the best-tasting bagels that money can buy while building a local business that lives up to the “Cleveland” brand.

“One of the greatest assets of Cleveland is its people,” explains Hardman, a former software guy. “We have been afforded so many opportunities from people like Gary Thomas of Ohio City Pasta, who let us work out of his kitchens. This isn’t rocket science. We have a company that can train anybody, so why not train anybody? We can hire the people that maybe others wouldn’t.”

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35 best new Cleveland restaurants, cafes and markets to try in 2017

As seen in: The Plain Dealer / cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Barbecue and hot pot made a splash, and the LeBron James-produced television show, “Cleveland Hustles,” gave us new eats. There’s been no shortage of places to explore since we last filled you in on recent additions to the food scene. From fast casual to markets and cafes to upscale dining, the last year has seen the openings of plenty of new options for Cleveland food lovers.

And don’t forget the drinks. Hansa Brewery’s long-awaited opening graced Ohio City, Euclid Brewing Company opened its doors and Western Reserve Meadery finally launched its tasting room. Artisan food companies like Old Brooklyn Cheese Company and Cleveland Jam both planted brick-and-mortars. And don’t forget the tacos: Camino, El Taco Macho and Taqueria La Loma all provided new outlets for the craze. Donning the chef’s apron more your style? New markets like Nature’s Oasis, Ohio City Provisions and Ipanema Brazilian Market all let you take the tastes home.

This guide takes you through some of the most exciting recent openings in the greater Cleveland area. Let us know where youare most looking forward to trying out.

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