Who would have thought that a New Jersey native's quest for authentic bagels would lead to one of Utah's most beloved local businesses? After relocating to Utah with no plans to become an entrepreneur, Cheryl found herself missing the distinctive chew and flavor of East Coast bagels. Her solution at first was both practical and slightly comical – flying back to New Jersey and stuffing her carry-on with six dozen bagels at a time.
When COVID hit and travel became impossible, Cheryl faced a bagel crisis. Rather than settling for what was available locally, she rolled up her sleeves and embarked on a six-month scientific experiment to recreate the perfect bagel at high altitude. This wasn't just about satisfying a craving; it became a passion project that involved meticulous testing, family taste-tests (sometimes literally throwing sample bagels at her kids), and countless adjustments for Utah's unique climate challenges.
What began as neighbors asking to buy her bagels quickly evolved into an "accidental business," as Cheryl describes it. Despite initially resisting the idea – "I don't want a business... I just left corporate America" – she found herself drawn to the joy of creating something meaningful from scratch. From producing 25 dozen bagels in her home kitchen to signing a lease and transforming an office space into a proper bagel shop, each step was driven by necessity and a growing community of devoted customers.
Today, Cheryl's Bagels stands for more than just authentic East Coast-style bagels in Utah. It represents a philosophy about food as connection, community building, and creating experiences beyond transactions. Cheryl notices when regulars haven't visited, remembers their preferences, and creates a space where meaningful interactions happen naturally. As she puts it, "If we did all the business we did and it was all online and never saw people, I would probably be folding this business because it's not about that. I need the human interaction."
Whether you're an East Coast transplant missing a taste of home, a food enthusiast curious about what makes a truly great bagel, or someone inspired by stories of unexpected entrepreneurship, Cheryl's journey from bagel smuggler to beloved local business owner demonstrates how addressing a simple need with passion and authenticity can evolve into something truly special. Stop by Cheryl's Bagels and taste the difference that dedication makes – no toaster needed for these fresh, perfect bagels.
50% Off Minky Couture Blankets: softminkyblankets.com/SMALLLAKECITY
www.skydiveutah.com
Cache Valley Creamery Showdown
Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time
Join Small Lake City: https://www.smalllakepod.com/subscribe
Instagram: @smalllakepod
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallLakeCityPodcast
TikTok: @smalllakepod
