Who we are

Stephen Schnabel, the heart and soul behind Pop’s Bagels NOLITA, grew up in Brooklyn, where his passion for food was sparked early. At just 12 years old, he began working at his father’s supermarket, slicing lox and preparing pickled herring at the deli appetizing counter. Within six months, he was promoted to the meat department, showcasing his knack for the business. By 20, Stephen spent summers working at another appetizing counter in Monticello, also owned by his father. It was there that fate intervened—Renee, his wife of nearly 60 years, walked in for a bagel and lox, and the rest is history. After a lifetime of successful ventures, Stephen was nudged out of retirement by Renee, leading to the creation of Pop’s Bagels NOLITA, where his warm personality and signature dad jokes keep the spirit of his Brooklyn roots alive.