Louisville, October 22, 2025
Selim’s Bagels is set to open a second location in the Highlands neighborhood of Louisville, responding to strong customer demand from its East End spot. The new site will feature 2,000 square feet of space, expanded seating, and a coffee bar, while hiring 20 new staff members. Construction begins next month with plans for an early 2026 opening. This expansion enhances the local breakfast scene and highlights the city’s appetite for quality dining options.
Selim’s Bagels Announces Second Louisville Location in Highlands
Louisville – A popular New York-style bagel shop is expanding its presence in the city with plans for a second location in the Highlands neighborhood. Selim’s Bagels, celebrated for its authentic boiled bagels and schmears, made the announcement today, highlighting the strong customer demand that has driven success at its existing East End spot. This development signals continued growth in the local food scene, where quality breakfast options are increasingly sought after.
The new site will span 2,000 square feet, providing expanded seating to accommodate more patrons and a dedicated coffee bar to enhance the dining experience. Owner Selim Kaya emphasized the thriving performance of the first location as a key factor in this expansion. Construction on the project is scheduled to begin next month, with the shop aiming for an opening in early 2026. In preparation, the business plans to hire 20 staff members, contributing to local employment opportunities in the area.
This move comes amid a competitive breakfast market in Louisville, where diverse and high-quality options have gained popularity. Community leaders in the Highlands have expressed support for the addition, viewing it as a positive boost to the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere. The expansion reflects broader trends in the city’s culinary landscape, where establishments offering unique, authentic flavors are drawing steady crowds.
Details of the Expansion
Selim’s Bagels first opened its doors in the East End of Louisville, quickly establishing a reputation for delivering traditional New York-style bagels. These bagels undergo a classic boiling process before baking, resulting in the chewy texture and crisp exterior that fans appreciate. The menu features a variety of schmears, from classic cream cheese varieties to more inventive spreads, paired with fresh toppings and sandwiches.
The decision to open in the Highlands neighborhood aligns with the area’s reputation as a hub for eclectic dining and shopping. This bustling district attracts residents and visitors alike, making it an ideal spot for a second outlet. The new location’s 2,000-square-foot footprint will allow for indoor and possibly outdoor seating, addressing the demand for comfortable spaces to enjoy meals. The inclusion of a coffee bar aims to create a more relaxed environment, encouraging longer stays for breakfast or casual meetups.
Hiring 20 staff members underscores the shop’s commitment to supporting the local workforce. Positions will likely include bakers, baristas, and front-of-house roles, providing entry-level opportunities in a growing sector. The construction timeline, starting next month, involves outfitting the space with commercial kitchen equipment and aesthetic touches that nod to the brand’s New York roots while fitting the Highlands vibe.
Impact on Louisville’s Food Scene
Louisville‘s breakfast and brunch culture has evolved rapidly in recent years, with bagel shops joining cafes, diners, and bakeries in meeting consumer preferences for fresh, artisanal foods. Selim’s Bagels enters this competitive environment with a focus on authenticity, differentiating itself through its boiling technique and schmear selection. The success of the East End location demonstrates that locals appreciate these elements, fueling the push for expansion.
The Highlands neighborhood already hosts a mix of international and comfort-food eateries, but Selim’s arrival adds a specific New York flair that has been underrepresented. This could draw bagel enthusiasts from across the city, potentially increasing foot traffic for nearby businesses. Community leaders see the shop as an enhancement to the district’s diversity, promoting a sense of place that celebrates varied culinary traditions.
Broader economic factors, such as rising interest in local hiring and neighborhood revitalization, play into this expansion. By targeting early 2026 for the opening, Selim’s Bagels positions itself to capitalize on post-holiday momentum, when diners often seek out new spots. The project’s progress will be watched closely, as it exemplifies how small businesses are adapting to demand in Louisville‘s dynamic market.
Background on Selim’s Bagels
Since its inception, Selim’s Bagels has prioritized quality ingredients and traditional methods to recreate the New York bagel experience. The East End store has become a go-to for morning routines, offering not just bagels but a sense of nostalgia for East Coast transplants and curious locals. Owner Selim Kaya, drawing from personal passion for the craft, has overseen operations that emphasize fresh daily production.
In Louisville, where Southern staples dominate, the introduction of boiled bagels represents a fusion of influences. The shop’s growth mirrors a citywide trend toward embracing global flavors in everyday dining. As construction ramps up next month, anticipation builds for how this second location will integrate into the Highlands fabric, further enriching options for residents and visitors.
The expansion also highlights the resilience of independent food ventures in a post-pandemic era, where customer loyalty drives decisions. With 20 new jobs on the horizon and a focus on community integration, Selim’s Bagels continues to build its footprint in Louisville.
FAQ
What is the new location for Selim’s Bagels?
The new location is in the Highlands neighborhood.
What is Selim’s Bagels known for?
Selim’s Bagels is known for authentic boiled bagels and schmears.
Why is Selim’s Bagels expanding?
Selim’s Bagels is expanding due to strong customer demand after its first East End spot thrived.
What are the details of the new site?
The new 2,000-square-foot site will offer expanded seating and a coffee bar.
How many staff members will the new location hire?
The new location aims to hire 20 staff members.
When does construction begin, and what is the target opening?
Construction begins next month, with an early 2026 opening targeted.
What does this expansion reflect about Louisville?
This move reflects Louisville’s growing appetite for diverse, quality breakfast options amid a competitive food scene.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Highlands neighborhood in Louisville |
| Specialty | Authentic boiled bagels and schmears |
| Size | 2,000 square feet |
| Amenities | Expanded seating and coffee bar |
| Hiring | 20 staff members |
| Timeline | Construction starts next month; opens early 2026 |
| Reason for Expansion | Strong customer demand from first East End spot |
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