From Montreal to Vancouver: A Bagel Dream Comes True
When Joel Siegel moved from Montreal to Vancouver in 1974, he quickly noticed a glaring absence-authentic Montreal-style bagels. Determined to bring a true taste of his hometown westward, he launched Siegel’s Bagels in Kitsilano, starting modestly by handing out bagels and cream cheese to passersby. Today, 35 years later, Siegel’s has become a beloved Vancouver institution, known for its wood-fired ovens and time-honored recipes.
The Art of Montreal Bagel Making: Tradition Meets Craftsmanship
Unlike New York bagels, Montreal-style bagels are denser, sweeter, and baked in a wood-burning brick oven-a process Siegel describes as “baking by the seat of your pants.” The dough is hand-rolled to remove air pockets, then boiled in honey water before being flipped on a long wooden paddle and baked to perfection. This meticulous method ensures the signature shine and texture that fans crave.
A Life Beyond Bagels: Racing, Trucking, and Resilience
Joel Siegel’s journey to bagel mastery wasn’t linear. Before opening his bakery, he raced sports cars across the U.S. and Europe, winning six championships despite a near-fatal crash that broke his neck. He also spent years driving semi-trucks and working in the clothing industry. Yet, his passion for authentic Montreal bagels ultimately brought him back to his roots.
Montreal Smoked Meat and More: A True Taste of Quebec
Siegel’s isn’t just about bagels. The shop also offers Montreal-style smoked meat, cured and brined over weeks, distinct from typical deli corned beef or pastrami. Alongside rugelach pastries, lox, and cream cheese, it’s a full celebration of Quebec’s culinary heritage in the heart of Vancouver.
Passing the Torch: Family Legacy and Community Love
Now 89, Joel Siegel’s daughter Parise runs the business, continuing the family tradition. The original Cornwall Avenue location will host a special celebration to mark both the shop’s 35th anniversary and Joel’s birthday. Despite retiring from daily baking, Joel remains a familiar face, known for his iconic moustache and warm presence.
Insight:
Siegel’s Bagels is more than a bakery-it’s a bridge between Montreal and Vancouver, blending tradition, passion, and community. For a true taste of Montreal in B.C., Siegel’s remains unmatched after 35 years.
