Two brothers who grew up in Bala Cynwyd are back where it all began. Brett and Kyle Frankel have opened the third Bart’s Bagels shop on Montgomery Avenue, the site of the former Bravo Pizza that was a popular hangout for them after school.
Family‑run and community‑focused
“It’s weird being back here 20 years later, coming into the space and having our own restaurant here now,” Brett said. The brothers, who launched the first Bart’s Bagels in West Philadelphia six years ago and later added a South Philadelphia location, say the new Main Line shop is a tribute to the neighborhood that raised them.
Bagel philosophy
Brett, a lifelong bagel enthusiast, shared a few guiding rules. “The everything bagel is king,” he explained, noting it is the top seller at all three locations. “We make sure we never run out of everything bagels.” The shop also offers a variety of house‑made spreads, from beet horseradish to a spicy long hot cream cheese, and classic deli toppings such as pastrami, smoked salmon, whitefish salad, and pickled jalapeños.
Keeping tradition alive
Beyond the daily sandwich menu, Bart’s Bagels is heavily involved in local Jewish holiday catering. “We do a lot of high‑holiday catering – Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur – with full briskets, potato dishes, round challahs, and thousands of bagels per store,” Brett said. The brothers see the new location as a way to keep those traditions thriving for younger generations.
How to build the perfect bagel sandwich
According to Brett, the secret is simple:
- Slice the bagel in half but do not toast it.
- Spread cream cheese on both halves so the layers stick.
- Add fresh greens.
- Layer your choice of protein or main vegetable.
- Finish with a garnish if desired.
- Slice and enjoy.
The shop invites locals and visitors alike to try the recipe and experience a piece of Bala Cynwyd history.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
