Our Story
Our History
The first bagel bakery in the state of Maine was established by Rick and Gail Hartglass in 1977 on Forest Ave. in Portland, Maine. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Rick saw a need to introduce Maine to the New York bagel. Through the years Mister Bagel has grown from a single neighborhood bakery to a thriving city bakery, offering wholesale and retail bagels. During the 1980’s, when the bagel explosion began, Rick broadened his market by opening satellite locations in neighboring areas of Portland and in other Maine towns. Mister Bagel created its own commissary to maintain quality. Now there are 11 locations, each servicing its own neighborhood with “The Worlds Most Flavorful Bagel”. The business was established using high quality natural ingredients and the traditional boil and bake method. We believe that the great water supply of Portland, Maine has helped produced our superb taste. That’s why we say “We Bake ’em Best”!
In August of 2010, our founding father Rick Hartglass, passed away. He is greatly missed by his adoring wife Gail, his daughter Jane and her family. Our community of friends and customers came together during this sad time and blessed us with their support and love. We are truly grateful for all of your healing support. The State of Maine has truly lost one of its pioneers and inspirations!
Our Today
All 8 of our stores have a wide variety of items to satisfy even the fussiest eater. The menu varies at the different locations according to neighborhood tastes. Our breakfast menu items include muffins, pastries, breakfast sandwiches and burritos, yogurt parfaits, and fruit salad. Mister Bagel is also a full service deli. Stores may feature in-house roasted turkey, fresh kosher style meats, deli salads, garden salads, soups and many specialty items. All of our in house items, both breakfast and lunch, can be put together to provide our customers with fantastic catering for any type or size of function.