Known for its “grip, rip and dip” method, PopUp Bagel’s has five bagel flavors consumers can dip in heaping containers of various schmears.
PopUp Bagels has been opening locations across the United States, and now Chicagoans will get the chance see what all the fuss is about.
The grand opening of its first Chicago location, in Lincoln Park, is at 7 a.m. Friday. The shop, at 2321 N. Lincoln Ave., will feature a limited edition “Giardiniera Schmear” in partnership with Portillo’s Hot Dogs.
“Our grip, rip, and dip model is designed for batch enjoyment and flexibility, allowing guests to enjoy bagels how they want, where they want, and with whoever they want,” PopUp Bagels’ website says.
PopUp offers plain, everything, poppyseed, salt or sesame bagels and different cream cheese or butter schmears for dipping. Besides plain cream cheese, there are flavored options, such as cake batter cream cheese or vanilla berry butter. Customers also can expect limited-time special schmears weekly.
While the company’s slogan is “not famous but known,” PopUp Bagels has had its viral moments. After opening its first location in Westport, Connecticut during the pandemic, PopUp gained popularity over social media nearly one year later.
With long lines often snaking along the street outside of its shops, PopUps are nearly impossible to miss.
“Hot bagels are baked continuously throughout the day to meet demand,” the website says. “Trust us, the ‘wait’ is part of the experience.”
The Chicago shop will be open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week. Catering is available.