Ugly Bagel, a Nashville, Tenn., brand known for its hand-rolled bagels, has opened its first brick-and-mortar location inside the newly renovated historic landmark, The Arcade Nashville.
In what was known as Overton Alley at the time of its 1903 opening, The Arcade was the city’s first enclosed shopping area. The interior space is two stories high, open to the gabled glass roof and was modeled after the famous Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele in Milan, Italy, according to the Nashville History and Architecture Tour. Nashville-based Dryden Architecture was tapped for the renovation of The Arcade, which is slated to finish renovations in early 2025.
Founded by longtime Nashville residents and hospitality veterans Jeff Crabiel and Jake Strang, Ugly Bagel’s inaugural brick-and-mortar shop seeks to immerse guests in the bagel-making experience in an engaging and energetic environment. A bright color palette and playful murals help Ugly Bagel stand out against the vintage backdrop of The Arcade.
Ugly Bagel partnered with Franklin, Tenn.-based Design and Engineering Inc. for the interior. Upon entering the space guests see freshly made bagels hanging on the wall to display monthly specials. Nearby sits the schmear station, which highlights various cream cheese options including bacon chive and Funfetti.
After placing an order at self-checkout kiosks, guests are invited to watch the bagel-making action through a rolling window. As you turn to leave, a merch section highlights t-shirts with cheeky phrases like “get toasted,” and tote bags that read, “I like ‘em ugly.”
Images courtesy of Digital Love
