In a not so surprising move, 101 Bagel Cafe has closed its location in Akers Mill Square (2955 Cobb Parkway #240) near Cumberland Mall. The bagel shop occupied a more than 3,300 square foot space, likely larger than it truly needed, and far larger than the franchised locations the locally owned company has opened in recent years. The eatery reportedly closed as of July 30.
In 2018, owner Tony Yang ditched the franchise and launched "101 Bagel Cafe" in its place. Yang along with business partner Rob Miller later opened another outpost in Duluth in early 2019 followed by more recent expansion into East Cobb, Dunwoody and Milton.
ToNeTo Atlanta observed the Akers Mill Space marked as "available" several months ago hinting at the shop nearing the end of their lease without the intention to renew. Their closure seems to confirm our earlier assessment but it's unclear if a replacement tenant has been found.
Signage at the shop announces it has "moved," but in reality, the message directs would-be customers to the four other existing locations around metro Atlanta: Dunwoody, Milton, East Cobb and Duluth, none of which are "new" or all that close to the shuttered shop.
Back at Akers Mill Square, Snooze an A.M. Eatery is opening August 16 in the former Corner Bakery with Whataburger opening in the former Joella's (Pollo Tropical), in an outparcel of the center. ToNeTo Atlanta reported in June that the Akers Mill Bed Bath & Beyond location was one of several that retailer Burlington won at auction to open new stores. KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot is also opening in the center in a space previously occupied by chain Tex-Mex restaurant Chuy's.
Across from Akers Mill, Original ChopShop opened its second Atlanta area location August 9 in the former Schlotzsky's in Cumberland Festival.
Are you surprised to see 101 Bagel Cafe close in Akers Mill Square? Who in Atlanta do you think makes the best bagel? What would you like to see open in place of the former 101 Bagel Cafe at Akers Mill Square?
Please share your thoughts below.