Local Food Finds

Bustling Bagel Shop With a Cause Set for Expansion in AACO

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Walk into this hidden gem in Gambrills and you’ll immediately be struck by the bustling atmosphere and top-notch customer service.

To call Nico’s Bagels & Brunch just another bagel shop would be a serious understatement.

Of course, they have amazing bagels and bagel sandwiches for breakfast, but they also serve lunchtime favorites like chopped ribeye cheesesteaks and Italianos. What really sets them apart from other bagel shops is their selection of fresh salads, flavorful side dishes and pastries, and gelato bar. To top it off, they offer a wide range of drinks, including coffee, energy drinks, and smoothies.

While there’s no shortage of great bagel spots in the Annapolis area and across Anne Arundel County, Nico’s stands out, not just for what they do, but for why they do it.

Nico’s Bagels and Brunch opened in Gambrills in October 2024, inspired by the vision of Nico Osuna, a hospitality management student at Florida International University. During his freshman year, Nico dreamed of launching a bagel food truck. After losing his mental health battle in 2018, his father, Jerry Osuna, decided to bring that dream to life. Partnering with co-owners Dan and Joy Shields, they were able to create a space filled with good vibes, positive energy, and purpose.

More than just a restaurant, Nico’s actively supports mental health awareness and suicide prevention through community outreach and fundraising. The shop is a tribute to Nico’s spirit—welcoming, joyful, and committed to making people feel seen and supported.

Already becoming a staple in the Gambrills area, it was recently announced they will be opening another shop in the Edgewater area.

To learn more about their mission or support the cause, visit NicosHopeforLifeFoundation.org.