Denver’s bagel scene has changed a lot in recent years, with the addition of spots like Rich Spirit, Odell’s Bagel and D.C.-based chain Call Your Mother. Now another homegrown chain that’s been around for over three decades is making some changes near the University of Denver.
Einstein Bros. Bagels was founded in Lakewood in 1995 by the same chain-restaurant corporation that launched Boston Market. After several ownership changes over the years, it became part of Panera Brands in 2021 and falls under that parent company’s Bagel Brands, which is headquartered in Denver and includes Einstein Bros. Bagels, Bruegger’s Bagels, Noah’s NY Bagels and Manhattan Bagel.
Until recently, bagel fans near the University of Denver had two options: Einstein Bros. on East Evans Avenue and the state’s last Bruegger’s Bagels on South University Boulevard. But Bruegger’s made its exit from Colorado last year and now, a bagel swap-out is about to take place: Einstein Bros. has closed its East Evans location and will soon open in the former Bruegger’s space. “We’re planning for next Tuesday, February 17, if all goes as planned,” says Gabe Washburn, Bagel Brands manager of PR and social media. “Following that initial opening, we’ll have a grand opening event on Saturday, March 7.”…