by Caroline Gabsewics
Staff Writer
The Hyatt had hopes of filling a void Downtown when they decided to add Einstein Bros. Bagels to its list of restaurant options three months ago.
Wednesday, Einstein Bros. Bagels celebrated its official grand opening with hopes of continuing to be Downtown’s exclusive bagel shop.
“It is doing very well with the limited exposure that we have given it so far,” said Dan Busillo, assistant food and beverage director for the Hyatt. “Einstein’s has been a great help for us. The brand is well-known and well-established.”
The grand opening celebration featured free bagels and schmear. Einstein Bros. Bagels’ mascots Melvin and Elmo were also on hand.
Einstein Bagels has been catering to Downtown employees and Hyatt guests. But, Busillo hopes they can reach out to the Southbank and Riverside as well as Downtown residents.
“It has given our guests another option for the morning and afternoon,” said Busillo. “It helps to have several options for the hotel especially when we have 2,000-3,000 people in house.”
He added the Hyatt has gotten “very favorable” feedback from guests over the past few months.
“Our regular guests who are here a lot on business have commented on how much they enjoy the additional option,” he said. “It is an opportunity for a quick grab-and-go meal.”
Before the Hyatt chose Einstein Bros. Bagels, Busillo said the Hyatt did research on the leading bagel franchises in the country.
“We wanted to gear towards grab-and-go,” he said. “And the area was in need of a good bagel shop.”
Another reason the Hyatt chose Einstein Bros. Bagels was because of the variety of foods they have to offer over and above bagels. They offer breakfast and lunch and all menu items are offered all day, said Busillo. Some menu items include:
• Omelet sandwiches
• Hot sandwiches
• Cold sandwiches
• Make your own deli sandwich
• Variety of bagels and shmears
• Soups
• Salads
• Smoothies
• Desserts
Einstein Bros. Bagels is located on the north side of the Hyatt, along the walk way between the Hyatt and City Hall Annex. For those who drive, the Hyatt offers free 30-minute parking in its parking garage when you show the parking attendant your receipt.
Einstein Bros. Bagels is open every day from 6 a.m.-3 p.m.