Mensch Bagels

Mensch Bagels was founded by Mike Samaha in July 2020. Our store opened it’s doors in March 2021. Mike conceived of Mensch Bagels on a trip to New York in January 2018. While there he and his friend, Brittany, sampled bagel sandwiches at Russ & Daughters. It was like nothing he’d ever tasted and he couldn’t understand why a good bagel sandwich was so difficult to come by in Sydney. Something had to be done. However, shortly after returning home, Mike commenced his job as a consultant at a professional services firm and his bagel dream was put on hold. Over the next three years, in his spare time, he taught himself how to make bagels and refined his recipe. In June 2020, COVID-19 resulted in an economic recession and Mike’s position was made redundant. He knew that this was his opportunity to make Mensch happen, and he has never looked back. Our menu is inspired by the food that Mike likes to eat. He was lucky enough to grow up with two grandmothers, a mother and two sisters who know a thing or two about good food. Thanks to them, Mike developed a sense of what worked. The flavours are punchy but comforting and we aim to nail the simple things. Please join us in our store at 475 Crown Street, Surry Hills to sample the fruits of our story.