PopUp Bagels Launches First Chicago Store in Lincoln Park with New Giardiniera Schmear

PopUp Bagels, a fast-growing bagel chain known for its signature "grip, rip and dip" eating style, is set to open its first Chicago location in Lincoln Park on Friday morning. The store, located at 2321 N. Lincoln Ave., will begin serving customers at 7 a.m., expanding the company’s footprint into the Windy City after a viral rise in popularity across the East Coast.

The bagel shop brings its distinct approach to bagels, offering classic flavors including plain, everything, poppyseed, salt, and sesame. Customers can pair their bagels with a variety of cream cheese and butter schmears for dipping, with both regular and creative weekly rotating options. For the Chicago opening, PopUp Bagels has partnered with Portillo’s Hot Dogs to introduce a limited edition “Giardiniera Schmear,” available only at the Lincoln Park location.

PopUp Bagels originated in Westport, Connecticut during the pandemic and has since grown a devoted following, driven largely by social media buzz and the brand’s emphasis on freshly baked bagels. According to the company, hot bagels are baked throughout the day to meet ongoing demand, and lines out the door have become a common feature at many locations.

The Chicago store will operate daily from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will also offer catering services for group events. With this latest opening, PopUp Bagels continues its national expansion, capitalizing on a broader consumer trend favoring elevated bagel experiences with unique and shareable options.

The launch is scheduled for Friday, with special menu features and regular bakery hours in place from day one.