With its opening on October 17, Salem welcomed Northwest Bagels to its small business community. Located on the southeast side of High Street in downtown Salem, this locally owned bagel bakery blends traditional baking methods with a modern approach to flavors.
Northwest Bagels features a core menu of five signature bagel flavors. This includes plain, everything and bacon jalapeño cheddar. As well as seven rotating flavors that change regularly to keep the menu fresh and exciting.
What sets Northwest Bagels apart is its dedication to handmade craftsmanship. Each bagel is hand-rolled and shaped by skilled bakers, a process that creates a stronger gluten structure. This gives the bagels a denser, chewier texture, a distinct crust and unique, irregular shapes. All goods are baked fresh daily, ensuring quality and consistency.
In addition to their baked goods, Northwest Bagels offers a selection of homemade cream cheese spreads, or “schmears.” These spreads range from classic options like original and strawberry. Yet, include bolder flavors such as garlic and caramelized onion, giving customers plenty of ways to customize each bagel.
Beyond Bagels: Sandwiches and Specialty Beverages
Northwest Bagels also offers a variety of bagel sandwiches, featuring both classic combinations and unique creations. Customers can choose from three staple sandwiches: the Lox, which includes smoked salmon, cream cheese and a selection of vegetables. The Sausage, Egg, and Cheese, is a traditional breakfast favorite; and the B.E.C., a bacon, egg, and cheese bagel sandwich. For something more distinctive, the Chouriço Melt features a Portuguese chouriço patty, egg and gouda cheese, offering a savory twist to the menu.
To complement their hearty breakfast options, Northwest Bagels serves a range of specialty drinks, including coffee, espresso-based beverages, and refreshers. Standout items include the Dirty Chai, a chai latte with a shot of espresso and the Raspberry White Mocha, a white chocolate mocha infused with a fruity hint of raspberry. For lighter options, the Blueberry Mango Green Tea and the Peach Jamaica Refresher, made with sweet peach hibiscus, have been popular choices. The bakery also serves freshly squeezed orange juice, made daily to pair perfectly with their baked goods.
A Passion for Bagels and Community
Northwest Bagels was founded by local owners Michael Leonard and Corey Davis. They share a passion for traditional bagel-making and a desire to bring high-quality, handmade bagels to the Salem community.
Our goal is to create a welcoming space where people can enjoy something made with care,” said Leonard. “We want Northwest Bagels to be a place where people come for great food and leave feeling connected to the community.
With its focus on handmade quality, creative flavors and a welcoming atmosphere, Northwest Bagels has quickly become a part of downtown Salem’s growing small business scene. Whether it is a classic bagel, a bold schmear or a hearty breakfast sandwich, the bakery offers something for everyone to enjoy.
