BRADENTON, FL — Jersey Bagel, a new concept from veteran bagel maker Fadi “Freddy” Makanast, is set to open its first Florida location at 2111 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34207 in early December. Makanast told Business Debut the team is targeting a December 5 opening pending final inspections.
What to Expect
The fast-casual cafe will serve breakfast and lunch seven days a week, offering counter service with dine-in seating for about 14 guests. The 1,600-square-foot space is designed for efficiency and community connection, with potential for additional seating as zoning allows.
Guests can expect an extensive lineup of 23 to 24 bagel varieties, more than 20 cream cheese flavors, and several chicken salad options. The menu will also include breakfast wraps, paninis, salads and more.
Menu and Vision
Makanast, who began his bagel-making career in Brooklyn in 1991, said Jersey Bagel carries forward his long-standing commitment to authentic quality. “It’s not the water—it’s the soul,” he told Business Debut. “I love what I do. I would never give this up for anything.”
Jersey Bagel builds on Makanast’s successful Five Brothers Bagels brand in New Jersey. His move to Florida follows years of exploring the Tampa Bay and Sarasota markets with family. “Bradenton is my first Florida location to get the feel of the area and to be part of the community,” he said…