When you bite into a bagel with cream cheese and lox, you are experiencing the convergence of three distinct crafts: the baker, the dairy farmer, and the fishmonger. At Go Bagels, we handle the baking, but we rely on a trusted network of partners to provide the rest. We believe that "local" and "sustainable" aren't just buzzwords—they are the only way to ensure freshness and flavor.
The Dairy Difference Cream cheese is the soulmate of the bagel. But have you ever tasted cream cheese that felt waxy or overly gummy? That is the result of over-processing and low-quality milk. We partner with regional dairy cooperatives that prioritize animal welfare and milk quality.
Our cream cheese starts with fresh milk and cream, cultured slowly to develop that signature tang. Because we source from providers closer to home, the time from "cow to counter" is minimized. This freshness translates into a texture that is fluffy and spreadable, not stiff. We also ensure that our dairy partners pledge not to use artificial growth hormones (rBST). We want the natural richness of the cream to shine through, which is why our plain Schmear tastes so good on its own.
The Salmon Standard Sourcing seafood is a complex responsibility. Overfishing and poor farming practices are real issues in the global food supply. That is why Go Bagels is committed to sourcing our smoked salmon (lox) from sustainable fisheries.
We look for partners who adhere to strict environmental standards. Whether it is wild-caught or responsibly raised, the fish we serve must be healthy and handled with care. The smoking process is equally important. Our providers use traditional cold-smoking methods, using real wood chips (often hickory or oak) rather than liquid smoke additives. This cures the fish while keeping the texture silky and buttery.
Why Local Matters By prioritizing regional suppliers where possible, we are doing two things. First, we are reducing our "food miles"—the distance ingredients travel to get to us—which lowers our carbon footprint. Second, we are keeping money in the local economy. When you buy a bagel from us, you are supporting the truck drivers, the farmers, and the processors in our own backyard.
We are proud of the relationships we’ve built "behind the counter." We know our suppliers by name. We trust them to deliver the best, so we can deliver the best to you. Next time you enjoy a Nova lox sandwich, take a moment to appreciate the journey that fish and cheese took to get to your plate. It’s a delicious collaboration.
