Balsam Bagels opened on June 2nd, 2004. Balsam Bagels is owned and operated by Ron and Rebecca Malek, who can be found baking or preparing the daily specials 7 days a week.

Ron's background is in the bakery business, he and his family operated a well known bakery for 24 years. Ron got interested in the bagel business in the early 1980's when he saw a strong growing demand for great tasting water bagels as well as the long lines that could be seen at the local bagel shops. He studied the art and science of bagel baking with WIlliam Becker the original owner of Bagel Land, as well as working in other bagel shops in Rochester and New York City. Ron's passion for bagels can be seen through his delicious tasting bagels and by his extensive knowledge and love of the art of bagel baking.

Balsam Bagels is the retail operation of Bagel Central, the wholesale side of the bagel business, which got its start in 1997. Bagel Central operated out of the old Spaghetti Warehouse. Bagel Central/Balsam Bagels produces upwards of 200 dozen bagels nightly, which are then delivered in the wee hours of the morning to area colleges, coffee shops, office parks, deli's, restaurants, health clubs, the public market and even the Rochester International Airport.

Rebecca is no stranger to the food and hospitality industry, where she has worked for the former Sweet Stuff' Pastry Shop as well as the Pier House in Key West, Florida. Rebecca can be found in the kitchen whipping up the latest batch of homemade soups from scratch or a variety of fresh salads. Her offerings range from the standard potato and coleslaw to the exotics such as her Indonesian Rice Salad or Pesto Pasta Salad. She can also be found in the Store waiting on customers and creating many unique and varied sandwiches, available on bread, rolls, bagels or even as wraps. Check out our Daily Specials on the home page for the Soup of the Day and the rest of Rebecca's delicous specials.

Ron and Rebecca welcome your suggestions and comments for new menu items and try to make your experience at Balsam Bagels a pleasant one. Balsam Bagels strives to provide you with wholesome, nutritious food at a reasonable price in a relatively quick fashion. Next time the thought of a greasy burger just won't do, stop on down to Balsam Bagels, we offer a wide selection of healthy alternatives to the fast food chains. Come watch Ron and our Baking Team prepare fresh bagels while you enjoy your breakfast or lunch in our comfortable indoor seating, or when Rochester weather permits enjoy one of our outdoor tables. Come on in, sit, relax, and enjoy some great food in our friendly atmosphere. Balsam Bagels is your neighborhood bagel bakery and cafe where you can meet with friends, have some fun with the kids or meet your associates for a business lunch.