PopUp Bagels Chicago to Open in Lincoln Park

PopUp Bagels is expanding across Illinois, with the first of 25 Chicago locations set to open in Lincoln Park on April 17th. PopUp Bagels serves hot, whole bagels straight from the oven—never sliced, never toasted—designed to be torn apart and dipped into schmear.

Chicago has long been a key market for PopUp Bagels. The brand has built a presence in the city through multiple appearances, including an on-the-ground partnership with Guinness celebrating St. Patrick’s Day for two consecutive years, as well as an activation at Eats Con Chicago. To celebrate its debut, the brand is partnering with Portillo’s to introduce a limited-time Giardiniera Schmear.

“Chicago is a natural fit for where we are as a brand,” said PopUp Bagels CEO Tory Bartlett. “As we continue expanding into major food markets, we’re focused on maintaining the simplicity and quality that define PopUp Bagels. Opening our first location in Lincoln Park gives us the opportunity to do exactly that.”

"Chicago has one of the most respected food scenes in the country, and we’re proud to bring PopUp Bagels into that mix,” said Chicago partner Chris Hadermann. “There’s a real appreciation here for places that specialize and truly own their niche, and that’s exactly what PopUp delivers. We’re looking forward to serving fresh, hot bagels and becoming part of the neighborhood.”

Expanding to the Chicago area marks a major milestone for PopUp Bagels as they expand the brand’s footprint to the Midwest for the first time. The Chicago locations will deliver the same freshly baked, hot-out-of-the-oven bagels as the bagel experience in NYC, Connecticut, California, Florida, and beyond. The shops will serve bagels for walk-ins, advance orders, and catering.