Known for its exceptional bagels, Bagels on Fire has become a cherished spot in The Beach. Since 2013, this local favourite has been delighting residents with unique artisan bagels and delicatessen sandwiches. Located in the heart of the neighbourhood, Bagels on Fire was born from a dream to create a bagel shop that truly resonates with the local community. Committed to using only the finest quality ingredients, they craft Montreal-style bagels from scratch every day in custom-built wood-fired ovens. Their dedication to supporting locally sourced products and their strong ties to The Beach have been pivotal to their success, fostering a loyal customer base that values quality, service, and community.
Crafting the Perfect Bagel
What sets Bagels on Fire apart is their dedication to preserving the tradition of authentic Montreal-style bagels while adding their unique twist. The secret lies in their carefully developed dough—a recipe designed to enhance flavor and texture. Enriched with natural, wholesome ingredients, each bagel is skillfully hand-rolled, showcasing the care and craftsmanship involved in its creation.
The wood-fired baking process begins with preparing the brick oven, starting with a 30-minute preheat to create optimal baking conditions. The bagels are then skillfully baked in this wood-burning oven. The precise rotation and placement of each bagel ensure consistent, perfect results with every batch.
They use a traditional, distinctive tool called “Sheeba,” made from hardwood planks, to maneuver the freshly baked bagels. Precise timing for turning and removal is crucial; missing the timing could disrupt the process and outcome. The skill involved truly highlights their expertise in crafting the perfect bagel.
One of their newest bagel sandwiches is the Pesto Turkey Bagel Sandwich. This sandwich features a flavorful blend of smoked turkey, creamy mayo, and melted cheese, complemented by the fresh crunch of lettuce and tomato. The basil pesto adds aromatic, nutty richness, while a touch of salt and pepper enhances the savoury profile. The slightly toasted, chewy bagel brings everything together in a satisfying bite. They also offer a selection of bagels to choose from, including plain, sesame, whole wheat, pumpernickel, and everything bagel. Their most popular choice is the Twister bagel.
How Bagels on Fire Found Its Home
Hazel and Julio who are the founders, have previously worked together at The Bagel House, the couple brought their combined expertise and passion to perfecting their bagels. They have always been confident in their product and believed it would be well-received.
Hazel has always admired the serene charm of The Beaches, which she first discovered during her early working days in the Gerrard Street and Fallingbrook areas. According to her, understanding the local community makes all the difference when choosing a target market. For Hazel and her husband, Julio, focusing on the residents of The Beaches was a strategic decision, as they are the primary consumers of their bagels. Additionally, the couple learned that the Beaches community has a strong appreciation for high-quality, locally-made products.
Visit Bagels On Fire Today
If you haven’t yet had the chance to experience the delectable offerings of Bagels on Fire, now is the perfect time to visit. Located at 2248 Queen Street East, their shop is not just a place to grab a bite but a welcoming spot to enjoy exceptional bagels and a sense of community. Come see why Bagels on Fire is a local favourite!
