After 18 years, Mister Bagel, a popular breakfast stop in Gorham, is changing hands. Heather Moody has operated the Gorham location of the statewide francaise, and built a dedicated following at the downtown business. Over the many years, Moody and Mr. Bagel have been consistent supporters of community fundraising and other activities to benefit Gorham citizens.
On June 1, Moody will hand over the keys to another longtime Gorham resident and a familiar face behind the counter at Mr. Bagel. Kristen Fitz will take over ownership, a natural transition from her years of filling in at the business during school vacations and summers, while she was on break from her full time job as an administrative assistant in the front office of Gorham Middle School. The arrangement allowed Moody time off with her children, and sparked a love and understanding of the business in Fitz.
Fitz noted that she was drawn to the customers, and the presence that Mister Bagel has in the community; she is eager to carry on the legacy. “I can’t say enough about what Heather has done on behalf of the Gorham community over the years,” said Fitz. “She has not only built a business, she has made Mr. Bagel an institution. I am honored to carry on her generous and entrepreneurial spirit and to serve the people of Gorham.”
In preparation for the transition, Fitz has actively been working with the Town of Gorham’s Economic Development Office, noting the important role new economic development specialist Lea Duffy has played. “Lea has been very supportive throughout the process, helping with occupancy permits, arranging inspections, and guiding me through the process.”
The business will be closed until June 15 to ensure a seamless transition and that all required steps are completed. Fitz intends to make the Saturday reopening a celebratory affair.
While much will stay the same, Fitz looks forward to building upon the well established success of Mr. Bagel. She plans to enhance some of the lunch options and hours by staying open until 1:30 on weekdays and offering special lunch sandwiches Tuesday thru Friday that will be announced on the business’s Facebook page. She also plans to create a “Travel Mug Club” for the coffee drinkers, of which Fitz ironically is not. Customers will be able to purchase a travel mug that can be infinitely refilled for $1.
Fitz says. “I hope Mr. Bagel is a place for people to come, sit down, and relax in a friendlyenvironment.”ShewantsMr.Bagelto have that old school diner feel, and to continue being a bedrock business in the community.