New Jersey has lost another longtime neighborhood food institution as familiar restaurants continue disappearing across the state. Beyond the Bagel in Upper Montclair closed after 30 years in business, ending a daily routine for generations of local customers.
The Bellevue Avenue shop served its final customers on September 13. Owner Tina Ganan had worked there for a decade before taking ownership 20 years ago, meaning much of her adult life was tied to the counter, the ovens and the people walking through the door. The Montclair Girl reported that Ganan said high rent, rising expenses and insufficient income had made it impossible to keep going.
More than a morning bagel stop
Beyond the Bagel offered the staples its name suggested, including bagels and breakfast sandwiches, but the menu grew well beyond that. Customers could also order omelets, deli-style sandwiches, smoothies and coffee, and the shop even added pizza during its final year…