TAMPA, Fla. (BLOOM) — New York bagel lovers, your time is now! The Big Apple’s legendary H&H Bagels is bringing its chewy, perfectly boiled, and world-renowned bagels to the Sunshine State, and Tampa is on the list. This news is courtesy of a recent announcement from the bagel giant, who is embarking on a nationwide expansion—marking a new era for breakfast lovers and former New Yorkers in the Bay area.
Founded in 1972, H&H Bagels has been the go-to for New Yorkers craving the perfect bagel, boiled in that oh-so-famous New York water. You might recognize H&H from its iconic cameos on Seinfeld and Sex and the City, where characters stopped in for a nosh. Now, after half a century of feeding the Upper West Side, Tampa’s residents will soon be able to do the same without hopping on a plane.
So, what makes these bagels so special? Let’s just say it’s in the water—literally. The minerals found in New York City’s tap water create a bagel with a one-of-a-kind chew. H&H’s said their bagels will be made with the same dough, hand-rolled and kettle-boiled in NYC before being shipped down for the finishing touch in Tampa. It’s a process that guarantees the only real New York bagel you can get outside of Manhattan.
Tampa Bagel Lovers, Unite!
As much as we love our local bagel heroes—shoutout to Pete’s Bagels, New York Bagel, Bagels Plus, and Zio’s NY Bagels—we have to admit, the arrival of H&H Bagels is something worth schmearing about. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the classic “everything” bagel or prefer a cinnamon raisin with cream cheese, this expansion is set to add to Tampa’s bagel game.
The first H&H location in Florida opened in Boca Raton this summer, but now, Tampa’s on deck. While we don’t have an exact opening date yet, rest assured the wait will be worth it. In the meantime, locals can start mentally preparing for those weekend brunch lines. After all, what’s more comforting than a bagel with schmear and a hot coffee to kickstart your day?
Tampa has long prided itself on blending local flair with global influences. Now, we can add “bagel capital” to our growing list of accolades, right next to our Cuban sandwiches and craft breweries. So, whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker transplanted to Florida or a Tampa local curious to see what the fuss is all about, it’s time to prepare your taste buds for the iconic chew of H&H Bagels.
Bring your appetite, Tampa. Bagel season is coming!
