PopUp Bagels opening first-ever Minnesota location in Minneapolis

In the bustling heart of Minneapolis’ North Loop, a new culinary chapter is set to unfold. On November 6, residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to experience a fresh take on a beloved American staple. PopUp Bagels, a rapidly growing brand known for its distinctive style and social media buzz, is opening its first Minnesota location at 107 3rd Avenue North, signaling a broader Midwest expansion. This opening is more than just a new shop; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of authentic, community-centered food experiences rooted in good faith and family values.

What Happened

PopUp Bagels, branded as "Not Famous but Known," is poised to make a significant mark in Minneapolis’s vibrant North Loop neighborhood. This area, renowned for its mix of modern apartments, historic warehouses, and a thriving arts scene, has become a hub for innovative local businesses. The North Loop’s proximity to downtown and its reputation as a foodie destination make it an ideal location for a brand that emphasizes quality, community, and a fun, shareable experience. The store’s opening on Nov. 6 will introduce residents to their unique "Grip, Rip and Dip" style of bagels—bagels that are not pre-sliced or made into sandwiches but are instead meant to be torn apart and dipped into a variety of schmears, including regionally inspired flavors.

This approach resonates with the community’s desire for authentic, customizable food experiences. The North Loop has historically been a neighborhood that values local entrepreneurs and innovative culinary concepts. The arrival of PopUp Bagels aligns with this ethos, offering a new kind of casual, communal eating experience that encourages social interaction and shared enjoyment. It’s a place where friends, coworkers, and families can gather over a simple yet satisfying food that’s designed to be interactive and fun.

Community Impact and Local Context

Minneapolis has long been known for its vibrant food scene, which includes a mix of traditional Midwestern comfort foods and innovative culinary startups. The North Loop, in particular, has become a hotspot for trendy eateries, breweries, and boutique shops, making it a perfect setting for PopUp Bagels’ debut. The city’s diverse population, including a large number of young professionals and creatives, is likely to embrace the brand’s social media-driven hype and interactive style.

Dan Daquisto, one of the local partners leading the Minneapolis store, is a well-known figure in the community. His background in hospitality and entrepreneurship has helped shape the store’s vision of creating a fun, inclusive environment. Daquisto, who is also involved with Hustle & Dough, a local bakery and café, has emphasized that the goal is to bring people together over great bagels in a way that’s both casual and memorable. “It’s all about community and connection,” Daquisto explains. “We want to be a place where people can come as they are, enjoy a unique bagel experience, and maybe even make some new friends.”

The local impact extends beyond just the food. The store’s opening is expected to generate new jobs and support local suppliers, especially as the brand plans to source ingredients regionally where possible. The inclusion of a regionally inspired, location-exclusive Schmear—Old Dutch Spicy Cheddar and Sour Cream—celebrates Minnesota’s rich potato chip heritage, further rooting the brand in local culture and flavors.

Profiles of the People Behind the Brand

Adam Goldberg: The Founder

Adam Goldberg, the founder of PopUp Bagels, started his journey in 2021 in his backyard in Westport, Connecticut. His passion for high-quality, innovative bagels stemmed from a desire to create a product that was fun, shareable, and different from the typical bagel shop. Goldberg’s vision was to challenge the traditional bagel market by emphasizing fresh, hot bagels served straight from the oven, and by encouraging a social, interactive experience. His approach quickly gained traction on social media, where the brand’s quirky, visually appealing offerings attracted a dedicated following.

Goldberg’s background in food entrepreneurship and his understanding of digital marketing have been crucial to the brand’s rapid growth. His ability to leverage social media buzz has helped PopUp Bagels expand beyond Connecticut into Chicago and now into Minnesota. Goldberg remains actively involved in the brand’s development, ensuring that each new location maintains the core values of community, quality, and fun.

Local Partners and Their Vision

In Minneapolis, Daquisto and Alex Smereczniak of Hustle & Dough serve as local partners. Hustle & Dough is known for its innovative approach to baked goods and its commitment to community engagement. Their collaboration with Goldberg’s brand aims to bring a fresh, neighborhood-oriented vibe to the North Loop store. Daquisto, a Minneapolis native, has expressed excitement about bringing a new type of bagel experience to his hometown. “We’re not just opening a store,” he says. “We’re building a community space where people can enjoy something different, have fun, and feel connected.”

What’s Next for PopUp Bagels in Minnesota

The Minneapolis location is just the beginning. The company holds development rights for up to 10 stores across Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and parts of Western Wisconsin. The initial focus will be on establishing a strong presence in the Twin Cities, with plans to expand into other communities as the brand gains footholds.

Beyond the North Loop, the brand envisions a future where PopUp Bagels becomes a staple in neighborhood centers, college towns, and business districts. Each store is expected to have a community-oriented feel, with local flavors and partnerships integrated into the menu and ambiance. The company also plans to introduce catering services and online ordering to accommodate busy schedules and event needs.

Why It Matters to Minneapolis and the Region

For Minneapolis, the arrival of PopUp Bagels underscores the city’s reputation as a hub for innovative, community-focused businesses. It reflects a broader trend of local entrepreneurs creating vibrant, interactive food experiences that foster social connection. The brand’s emphasis on fresh, hot bagels served in a playful manner aligns with the city’s values of authenticity and inclusivity.

Furthermore, the expansion supports local economic growth, creating jobs and opportunities for regional suppliers. It also adds to Minneapolis’s reputation as a city that embraces new culinary concepts, attracting visitors and residents looking for unique, memorable dining experiences. The North Loop’s transformation into a lively, diverse neighborhood makes it an ideal setting for PopUp Bagels’ playful and community-oriented approach.

What Happens Next

After the grand opening on Nov. 6, the store will operate with walk-in, pickup, and catering options, aiming to serve the community’s varied needs. The company will monitor customer feedback closely to refine their offerings and service model. As the brand establishes itself locally, plans are underway to open additional stores, potentially including pop-up events and collaborations with local artists and businesses to deepen community ties.

The success of the Minneapolis location could serve as a blueprint for future expansions across the Midwest, emphasizing local engagement and innovative food experiences. Goldberg and his partners remain committed to maintaining the brand’s core values of fun, quality, and community, ensuring that each new store will reflect the spirit of the neighborhood it serves.