Union Bagel Company

For us Mainers, a truly great bagel can be the perfect start to any day, whether it's a quick breakfast on the go or a leisurely weekend treat. In a state celebrated for its independent spirit and appreciation for quality craftsmanship, finding a local establishment that consistently delivers on both taste and experience is always a win. Union Bagel Company, with its dedicated following and reputation for exceptional bagels, has certainly carved out a special place in the hearts of many South Portland and greater Portland residents.

This article is crafted specifically for you, our fellow Maine locals, to provide a comprehensive and engaging look at Union Bagel Company. We'll explore what makes this bagel shop a standout in our vibrant food scene, from the quality of its bagels and house-made spreads to the convenience of its online ordering system and the warmth of its staff. While some might debate which spot truly holds the crown for "best bagel" in the area (and Portland certainly has some strong contenders like Scratch, Rose Foods, or Forage), Union Bagel Company consistently garners high praise and a loyal customer base, making it a must-know for any bagel enthusiast in the region. We'll cover its location, what you can expect from their menu, its unique features, contact information, and ultimately, why it’s so well-suited for our local community here in Maine.

Union Bagel Company is located at 97 Darling Ave, South Portland, ME 04106, USA. This address places it in a convenient and accessible part of South Portland, making it an easy stop for residents of the city and those commuting through the area. Darling Avenue itself is a well-traveled route, providing straightforward access for drivers.

For those traveling by car, the location typically offers convenient parking, which is a significant advantage in busy urban areas. Its position in South Portland makes it particularly accessible for individuals living in or regularly passing through neighborhoods like Thornton Heights, Knightville, or even those coming from across the Casco Bay Bridge from Portland. While some businesses can be unpredictable with hours, Union Bagel Company aims to serve its local clientele consistently, though it is a small, take-out focused counter. The general area around Darling Avenue typically has a mix of residential and commercial establishments, contributing to its ease of access for daily errands. This prime location allows Union Bagel Company to serve a broad segment of the local Maine population seeking fresh, high-quality bagels without the need to venture into the often-congested downtown areas of Portland.

Union Bagel Company focuses on a core offering of freshly made, high-quality bagels and complementary items, designed for both individual enjoyment and convenient bulk purchases.

• Freshly Baked Bagels: At the heart of their service are their hand-rolled, organic, and kettle-boiled bagels. Customers consistently praise their quality, describing them as "fresh," "chewy," and having an excellent texture. Varieties include classic options like plain, sesame, onion, salt, and poppy, with specialty options often available.
• House-Made Cream Cheeses: A significant highlight of their offerings are the various house-made cream cheese flavors. These are designed to perfectly complement their bagels, with customers often recommending specific pairings for an "out-of-body experience." Flavors can range from traditional plain and veggie to more unique options like scallion, jalapeño, bacon cheddar, strawberry, walnut raisin, and even avocado cream cheese.
• Breakfast Sandwiches: For a more substantial meal, Union Bagel Company offers a selection of breakfast sandwiches. Common options include bacon, egg, and cheese on a bagel, allowing customers to choose their preferred bagel flavor.
• Vegan Options: They cater to various dietary preferences, with all their bagels being vegan. They also offer vegan topping choices such as vegan cream cheese (though reviews on its taste vary), hummus, and Earth Balance. The "Avo Cruncho" bagel sandwich can also be made vegan.
• Coffee and Beverages: To complete the breakfast experience, they offer a selection of coffee and other beverages, often praised for their quality.
• Online Pre-Ordering: A key service for their dedicated customers is the online pre-order system for Friday pickups. This makes it "super easy" to secure your desired bagels and cream cheeses, especially for larger orders or specific popular items that might sell out quickly.
• Wholesale Opportunities: Union Bagel Company also engages in wholesale distribution, with their bagels being served at other local establishments.

Union Bagel Company distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that contribute to its strong local following and reputation.

• Exceptional Bagel Quality: The consistent praise for their bagels being "the best bagels in town," "fresh," and "perfectly chewy and crunchy" is a major highlight. The commitment to hand-rolled and kettle-boiled methods ensures an authentic and superior product.
• Diverse and Unique Cream Cheese Flavors: Their range of house-made cream cheeses, particularly the "everything bagel" paired with a house-made cream cheese, elevates the experience, offering creative and delicious combinations beyond standard options.
• Efficient Online Pre-Order System: The structured online pre-order for Friday pickup is a significant convenience for customers. It reduces wait times and ensures availability, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to customer service, especially for popular weekend rushes.
• Dedicated and Friendly Staff: Numerous reviews highlight the "incredible staff" who are described as "friendly, fast," and "super sweet." This positive customer service enhances the overall experience and fosters a welcoming atmosphere.
• "Worth the Wait" Reputation: Despite potential lines or the need for pre-ordering, customers consistently affirm that the bagels are "worth the wait," a testament to the high quality and satisfaction they provide.
• Focus on Quality Ingredients: Their emphasis on "freshly made, organic bagels" and a commitment to "only the finest ingredients" underscores their dedication to producing a superior product.
• Small, Take-Out Focused Operation: Union Bagel Company operates as a "small take-out counter." While this means limited seating, it allows them to focus intensely on the quality and efficiency of their product, making it ideal for a quick grab-and-go.

For those looking to get their bagel fix from Union Bagel Company, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 97 Darling Ave, South Portland, ME 04106, USA

Phone: (207) 699-8264

Mobile Phone: +1 207-699-8264

Union Bagel Company is exceptionally well-suited for us Mainers, particularly those in the South Portland and greater Portland area, for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, their commitment to producing truly high-quality, authentic bagels resonates deeply with our local appreciation for well-crafted food. In a region where discerning palates seek out the best, Union Bagel Company consistently delivers on taste and texture, with many proclaiming them "the best bagels in town." This makes it a reliable and satisfying choice for anyone craving a genuine bagel experience.

Secondly, the convenience offered by their online pre-order system for Friday pickups is a huge benefit for our busy lives. We Mainers appreciate efficiency, and the ability to secure our weekend bagels without uncertainty or extensive waiting lines makes Union Bagel Company an incredibly practical and user-friendly option. This forward-thinking approach to customer service demonstrates an understanding of local needs and habits.

Finally, the friendly and efficient staff contribute significantly to the overall positive experience, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. Supporting a local business that prides itself on both product excellence and customer satisfaction aligns perfectly with Maine's community-focused values. Whether you're grabbing a single bagel and coffee on your way to work, or stocking up for the family weekend, Union Bagel Company offers a consistent, delicious, and convenient solution that makes it a true local treasure for bagel lovers across Maine.

Union Bagel Company

97 Darling Ave, South Portland, ME 04106, USA