New Tuckahoe Bagel Shop

Tuckahoe has a new place for some great eats. The establishment is called The Bagel Loft, and its official grand opening just happened last weekend.

The Bagel Loft, which is located at 307 Columbus Avenue, is owned by Victor Mejia. Mejia, who has lived in Eastchester for nine years with his family, opened the shop's doors on March 7.  Sunday's official grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by Tuckahoe Mayor Steve Ecklond.

Patch got an exclusive interview with Bagel Loft Owner Victor Mejia. Here is what he had to say about opening up his new shop.

Patch: How did you get the idea for the store?

Mejia: I have been in the restaurant business for over 20 years. Having started several bagel stores and restaurants in New York City.  When I moved to Eastchester seven years ago, I started thinking about starting a business closer to home. Over the years I found there weren’t many good bagel shops in the area that also offered lunch and dinner so I decided to fill the void.

Patch: What was the hardest part about setting up your shop?

Mejia: The most difficult part of the process was deciding on a location and menu.  I wanted to offer customers a variety of foods without overwhelming them. I’m happy to have found a spot in such a central location and to have gotten great feedback on the menu from our patrons.

Patch: Why did you choose to set up shop in Tuckahoe?

Mejia: I chose Tuckahoe because I saw there was a need for a casual dining establishment in the neighborhood with a variety of choices and affordable prices.  I noticed the Village of Tuckahoe was undergoing development and thought it was the perfect place for a new business. 

Patch: What unique addition will your store bring to the Tuckahoe community?

Mejia: We are unique in that our bagels are our hand rolled and baked on premises.  We also offer “create your own” salads and panini’s, and an inviting atmosphere.  Also I’ve been lucky to find an awesome chef whose worked at some of NYC’s top restaurants.  I believe we bring the best of NYC to Tuckahoe.