Meshuggah Bagels Rolling Into Downtown Soon

(Editor’s note: Meshuggah’s new downtown location will have its grand opening Aug. 9)

By Kevin Collison

Meshuggah Bagels is on the verge of opening downtown, almost five months after it’s original target date in March.

The popular bagel place, which has been a hit since it opened its first shop at 1208 W. 39th St. in early 2016, plans to start operating in its new space at 40 E. 13th St. soon.

“It’s been a large task for us, but it’s worth it,” said co-owner Janna Linde.

Two challenges combined to setback the opening several months: the raw condition of the space where the new shop is located on the first floor of One Light apartments, and required city approvals.

“At one time, One Light was going to use the space for a lobby wine bar for residents,” Linde said, “but they put the bar on the fourth floor and decided to develop it.

“When we started, nothing had been done. It was just cinder block walls and a dirt floor. The address didn’t even exist.”

This week, when Meshuggah thought it was ready to roll, a city inspector said the electrical wiring was not up to standards. That delayed the opening further.

The shop is now awaiting final approval from the City Health Department.

When it opens, Meshuggah plans to operated Tuesdays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to to 2 p.m. It’s closed Mondays.

Linde said those hours eventually may expand on weekend evenings, particularly if there’s an event occurring downtown.

The downtown Meshuggah is expected to employ three full-time people and five or six part-time.

In addition to their bagels, it will offer a variety of schmears including rosemary and garlic, jalapeño, dirty martini, Oreo cheesecake and German chocolate. Other menu items will include salty lox, Nova salmon and signature whitefish salad.

Linde and her partner and husband Pete also plan to introduce deli items on their bagels at the new downtown location including smoked turkey and pesto-parmesan ham.