New Bagel Shop a 'Few Months' From Opening

For 16 years, Attia Darwish has been working in the food industry as a cook, but has wanted more; something to call his own. 

Now, the opportunity of available retail space in Long Valley – a place Darwish says he’s had his eye on for quite some time – and his love for cooking has come to a meeting point.

Darwish spoke briefly with Patch Wednesday morning about his new endeavor, Long Valley Bagel, which will open on East Mill Road at the old Spartan Mart location, aside Cottage Treasures.

The new entrepreneur is a former resident of Chester and said he’s always dreamed of opening his own business in the neighboring town.

“I’ve always loved Long Valley,” Darwish said. “It’s a nice town, and a nice place with nice people.”

When Darwish learned of the building’s availability, he said it was the right time and right place to embark on his dream, and the reality can’t come soon enough.

“I hope to open tomorrow,” he said. “But to get everything in order and finish preparing, it will be a few months.”

The retail space is currently empty with small signs on the windows announcing the coming of a new business. Darwish will be leasing the space from the Philhower family, which has owned the building for decades.

Long Valley Bagel will be a full-service “boil and bake” operation and offer customers breakfast and lunch foods, Darwish said. Deli meats, coffee and other beverages, along with assorted soups will be available as well.

Patch will check back with Long Valley Bagel in the coming months as the business’s opening draws near.