After three months of "blood, sweat and tears" B Bagel has finally opened its sixth outlet near Hampstead Heath.
Co-founders Yoav Baumgarten and Alon Kubi opened the latest shop in their bagel chain in Swain's Lane, in time for lunch on Friday (November 15).
The sun was shining as they put out the last tables and chairs on the terrace, while inside bagels were being baked, bagel crisps stacked, and fridges filled with takeaway fillings.
The cafe has space for up to 30 diners inside and up to 50 people outside, and will be open seven days a week from 7am until 6pm.
Shortly before the opening, the pair and marketing manager Neaz Bhuiyan, spoke to the Ham&High about their excitement and their nerves at finally opening.
Mr Bhuiyan said it had been "three months of blood, sweat and tears," as they demolished Roni's and rebuilt B Bagel "from the ground up".
He added: "This is our pride and joy because it's an area close to our hearts and we've taken the baton from Roni's. We're a whole different company but to be able to carry on that legacy and be part of this community is huge for us.
"We really thought this through in depth, we have a whole new range to suit the area and we're super excited, to the degree I feel nervous.
"The moment when that moment comes and the adrenaline is so high after getting it done."
The chain already has shops in Camden High Street, Tottenham Court Road and Brent Cross Shopping Centre, where it offers eat-in, take away or delivery.
"I'm very excited, I've been waiting for this for a long time," he said.
"What's amazing is the local population and the community have been knocking on our door the last few days. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly.
"We spent all the last week here which has made it clearer we're in the right place."
Yoaz said all the bagels are produced on site and most of the fillings, including tuna mayonnaise and different flavours of cream cheese are on sale individually for people to take home or create their own on Hampstead Heath.
Alon said he was "super excited".
He added: "I'm very happy with what it's going to be.
"In the last week people have been coming and asking a lot of questions, knowing what they want."
He said it was a "very nice, friendly community" adding "being part of this great place is a blessing".
With Trade next door selling sandwiches, Superette nearby, Alon said "the more the merrier," while Yoaz said it would bring more people to the area.
"You don't want to be a small shop in a small space, you want to bring more people in and create a centre," he added.
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