When you stop by Bagels Unlimited on West University Avenue, be prepared for good conversation along with great food. Owner John Hill loves nothing more than chatting with his customers and making sure they have the best experience possible.

Story and Photos by Mead Bowen

“It’s really a thrill to give somebody a new hot sauce or let them try something new that they really like,” John says. “It’s just the satisfaction of making people happy that’s the best part of the job.”

Even if you’re not a morning person, you’ll love this 25-year-old institution. The crew at Bagels Unlimited offers fast and friendly service, and the prices are affordable. You’ll be hard-pressed to leave the restaurant without a happy stomach and a smile on your face.

START THE DAY WITH A BANG

As it serves the most important meal of the day, Bagels Unlimited guarantees a hearty helping of morning fuel for your tank.

“Every restaurant has a niche, and our niche is that we have a heavy spoon,” John says. “Our plates are big-sized plates of food. Our omelets are three to four eggs—sometimes they get even bigger than that!”

A customer favorite is the fresh-squeezed orange juice ($2.25 for a small)—so satisfying that, according to one customer, “It’s like you can feel it going into your veins.” Also, try livening up your usual meal with a dash from John’s collection of more than 100 hot sauces.

ROLL OUT OF BED

Bagels Unlimited is within walking distance of the University of Florida, almost at the intersection of University Avenue and 13th Street—a convenient location for most residents. “You meet older people, younger people. It’s in a college town, and it’s right next to campus, so it’s kind of a one-stop place,” says John’s daughter Michelle, who works at the restaurant as a server.

Along with students, the restaurant’s regulars include professors, UF staff, athletes, police officers and visiting artists. With the stadium and lively downtown a short jaunt away, Bagels Unlimited is a great first step to your day’s agenda.

COMFORT FOOD, CREATIVE CUISINE

Whether you’re in an adventurous mood or craving an old favorite, Bagels Unlimited will have something to please your palate. Traditionalists should try a Special with Meat ($6)—an egg your way and your choice of meat, served with a bagel, toast or English muffin, and either home fries, hash browns, grits or oatmeal.

Looking for something more sophisticated? Order an omelet, like the Supreme ($9), which you can order without the same sides as the Special for $2 less. Vegetarians will delight in the Tofu Scrambles with Grilled Veggies ($4.50). Keep an eye out for a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup pancake, with delicious chocolate and peanut butter chips (two cakes for $4.50).

FAST FACTS

Address: 1222 W University Ave.
Phone number: 352-372-7006
Parking: In the rear; street parking on weekends
Hours: 6:30am-3pm daily
Price Range: $-$$ (out of $$$$)
Dress Code: Casual
Take out: Available
Outdoor seating: Available
Tip: Arrive before 10am on the weekends to avoid the rush
Daily Specials: Varies by day. Include BLT Basket, Tomato Melt, Tuna Salad Basket, Burger, Boca Burger, Patty Melt, $1 off Any Mo (two pancakes, two eggs), $1 off a Philly, $1 off a Hearty, or $1 off an Omelet.