LOS ANGELES — Since its inception in 2019, BagelFest has become a hub for bagel makers and lovers alike to gather and celebrate the boiled-and-baked goods. This year, the annual event, normally held in New York City, is heading to the opposite coast for the very first time.
In partnership with the Jewish Food Lab of Wilshire Boulevard Temple, the inaugural BagelFest West will be held April 12 at the Audrey Irmas Pavilion in Los Angeles’ Koreatown neighborhood.
“A global bagel boom is underway, and the West Coast has fully arrived,” said Sam Silverman, founder of BagelUp and creator of BagelFest. “BagelFest West is to celebrate the artisans who are breaking the outdated idea that world-class bagels can only be made with New York water.”
The day before, BagelFest will host an Industry Mixer April 11 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Wilshire Boulevard Temple. The networking event encourages bakers, bagel makers and leaders in the industry to connect prior to the event.
Day of, BagelFest West will be broken into two distinct sessions. The industry-exclusive session, taking place 10 a.m.-1 p.m., is designed for chefs, buyers and brands aligned with the bagel industry to network, engage in education and explore curated tastings. In the afternoon session, taking place from 1-5 p.m., bagel lovers of all ages will convene to try the assortment of bagel and schmear samples on display.
“BagelFest West aligns beautifully with the Jewish Food Lab’s mission to use food as a gateway to culture and connection,” said Toby L. Neiman, associate executive director and head of strategic programming for Wilshire Boulevard Temple. “By welcoming families into the experience, the festival turns culinary exploration into a multigenerational conversation.”
Similar to its East Coast counterpart, BagelFest West will also bestow honors across several categories, such as Best of the West, Best Bagel, Best Sandwich, Most Creative, Rising Star, and Schmear of the Year.
King Arthur Baking Co. is maintaining its sponsorship of the event in its new location.
“King Arthur Baking is excited to follow BagelFest West as the presenting sponsor for the inaugural west coast edition, celebrating bagels, bagel makers and fans of the iconic bread,” said Jeff Yankellow, director of bakery food service for King Arthur Baking. “Our participation aligns with our vision to bring people together, inspire and share the joy of baking to build stronger communities. There’s no better example of this happening than at local bagel shops in communities around the country and world.”
Visit the BagelFest website for more information on the event.
