Bagel-buffs of the capital city, I come bearing some brilliant news. The beloved Brick Lane Beigel Shop is set to reopen this week, after the east London landmark was forced to close its doors earlier this year.
The circumstances behind its closure have previously been kept under wraps, but the family owners made a statement today (June 24) to set the record straight. The store announced that its February closure was down to a combination of financial problems, familial disputes and health issues.
Before its sudden closure, the historic beigel shop had been serving up delicious bagels to hungry Londoners for over a century. One of two famous beigel shops on Brick Lane, the iconic yellow-fronted store was much-loved by locals and tourists alike, and – as you can imagine – left quite the hole (no pun intended) in Brick Lane with its closure. But fret no more, carb-lovers – Brick Lane Beigel Shop is set to be making its comeback this Wednesday (June 26) – and we are so (b)ready for it.
In their statement, Brick Lane Beigel Shop said: “In recent times, we’ve faced trials, including complex family dynamics and health setbacks, common in many extended-family businesses. Our recent hiatus came as a culmination of a long-standing family dispute over the building’s ownership and subsequent rents, alongside the health struggles of our beloved father and uncle, Aron, who remains in recovery from a heart attack and multiple strokes. Amidst these difficulties, we are determined to move forward with renewed vigour and optimism.”
The statement goes on to explain that younger generation of the family will be stepping up to continue the beigel shop’s legacy, but they are aware of the ‘financial hurdles’ that lie ahead. Brick Lane Beigel Shop then announced that they will be launching a GoFundMe page to help ease some of the financial burdens they are facing. They’ve set a goal of £50,000 to help towards machinery upgrades, vital renovations, and their doubled rent prices.
Despite the issues they are still dealing with, the return of the 24/7 beigel spot is sure to be met with open arms (and mouths). Welcome back Brick Lane Beigel Shop, we’re dough-lighted to see you again.