Jersey Bagel Opening First Florida Location In Bradenton

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.

Popular menu favorites will include the Taylor ham, egg, and cheese bagel for breakfast and “Freddy’s Favorite,” a grilled chicken hero with balsamic dressing, roasted red peppers, and fresh mozzarella.

Family and Team

Makanast operates Jersey Bagel alongside his four brothers, Shadi, Wasim, Shirkou, and Haval. “We’ve been very close since our father passed,” he told Business Debut. “We all help one another and support each other’s stores.”

His wife, Beatrice, plays a key role in the business’s design and direction. “She’s my hero—my designer, my brain, my head, and my heart,” Makanast said. His two sons, Abe and Alan, are also heavily involved. Abe, 25, assists with operations and management, while Alan, 20, handles repairs and maintenance.

Now Hiring

Makanast said he is currently building his opening team and welcomes applications from local residents. “We can’t succeed without a good staff,” he told Business Debut. “I want to be part of this community for a very long time, and anyone who wants to grow with us is welcome.”

Opening Timeline

The Bradenton location is targeting a December 5 opening, pending final approvals.

Hours

The restaurant plans to operate daily from 6 a.m. – 3 p.m., with adjustments possible based on customer demand. Makanast emphasized that Jersey Bagel will remain open year-round, including holidays and inclement weather.

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