BAGEL INDUSTRY IMMERSION

Are you an aspiring bagel entrepreneur or industry professional looking to improve your craft? We can help.

BagelUp Consulting Services

We offer expert guidance to help you launch and grow a successful bagel business. Our consulting services include:

  • Recipe Development & Techniques – Perfecting your bagel formula, fermentation process, and baking methods.

  • Equipment & Shop Setup – Advising on essential equipment, kitchen layout, and production workflow.

  • Business Models & Strategy – Structuring your business for profitability, including pricing, revenue streams, and scaling.

  • Staffing & Training – Hiring key team members, from bakers to front-of-house staff, and implementing efficient training programs.

  • Marketing & Branding – Positioning your bagel shop for success with branding, social media, and customer engagement strategies.

Who Is This For?

  • Future Owners: Aspiring bagel shop owners.

  • Entrepreneurs: Trailblazers in the food and hospitality industry.

  • Existing Operators: Current bagel shop operators looking to innovate.

Virtual or In-person

  • Book a one-hour “Bagel Therapy” video call with award-winning baker Reva Castillenti for $150 to troubleshoot your recipe and production process. See availability here.

  • in-person trainings and education sessions start at $500 for individuals or $1,200 for small groups. Submit a form for more info.

MEET THE BAGEL PROS

Reva Castillenti: Sculptor Turned Master Baker

  • Reva Castillenti's journey into the world of bread-making is as unique as it is inspiring. Initially beginning her career as a talented sculptor, Reva's artistic skills and keen eye for detail quickly found a new canvas - the world of artisan bread-baking. It wasn't long before she discovered that her passion for creating art could be beautifully expressed through the craft of baking.

    Diving into the realm of bread-making, Reva dedicated years to mastering her craft. She developed a particular fondness for bagels and baguettes, seeing in them an opportunity to blend her artistic background with her culinary pursuits. Her approach to baking is deeply rooted in tradition, yet innovative in execution. Reva's commitment to quality saw her traveling extensively to source the finest native and heritage flours, ensuring that each bagel she baked was not just food, but a piece of art.

    Her dedication and skill were soon recognized on a global scale. Reva's bagels, known for their perfect balance of chewiness and flavor, earned her second place at the prestigious World Bread Awards in 2018 and 2019. These accolades only scratched the surface of her talent, as she became a sought-after figure in the culinary world, with both home bakers and professional chefs alike seeking her expertise.

    Beyond her baking accolades, Reva has become a beloved teacher and mentor. Her classes and workshops are more than just lessons in bread-making; they are immersive experiences where she shares her passion, techniques, and the artistry behind every loaf and bagel. Her students often speak of her infectious enthusiasm and the inspiring way she blends the precision of sculpting with the science and heart of baking.

    Today, Reva continues to inspire and innovate in the world of artisan bread-making. With her unique background as a sculptor and her undying passion for baking, she brings an artistic flair to the kitchen that transforms ordinary bread-making into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Sam Silverman: New York’s Bagel Ambassador

  • Sam Silverman, the founder of BagelUp and the creative force behind NYC Bagel Tours, is a true connoisseur and advocate of New York's iconic bagel culture. His journey in the world of bagels is a testament to his passion for this quintessential New York food and his dedication to sharing its story with the world.

    Sam brings a unique blend of business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit to the bagel industry. His transition from the corporate world to the culinary scene was driven by his love for bagels and a realization that New York lacked a platform to celebrate its most beloved food item.

    In 2017, Sam's vision came to fruition with the launch of the New York BagelFest, an event that quickly became the Mecca for bagel enthusiasts and industry professionals. His determination to create a comprehensive platform for bagel appreciation led to the birth of BagelUp, which has since become a hub for everything bagel-related — from festivals and tours to baking workshops and digital content.

    Sam's dedication to promoting and preserving bagel culture is evident in every aspect of his work. He's not just the organizer of events but an ambassador for the bagel community. He has tirelessly worked to bring bagel artisans, enthusiasts, and professionals together, creating a vibrant community that shares, learns, and celebrates the rich legacy of bagels.

    Under Sam's leadership, BagelUp has not only honored the traditional aspects of bagel-making but also embraced innovation and new trends. He has been instrumental in spotlighting small businesses and unsung heroes in the industry, aiding in their growth and recognition on New York’s gastronomic stage.

    Recognized as one of Brooklyn's 50 Most Fascinating People, Sam's influence extends beyond the bagel world. He is a visionary entrepreneur, a community builder, and most importantly, a storyteller who brings the humble bagel's tale to life for people around the globe.

Ready to elevate your bagel business?

Let us know what help you’re looking for. We’ll get back to you within 24 hrs.