In this episode of South End Stoop Sessions, Cate Brinch sits down with Jordan Renouf, founder of Brick Street Bagels. Jordan shares how a simple idea to meet neighbors turned into a fast-growing bagel business rooted in community. From baking in his apartment and delivering by bike to hosting pop-ups and securing kitchen space at Bar Mazzana, then planting roots at South End Buttery. Jordan walks through the steady progression of his journey. The conversation covers his approach to branding, social media, and building something without a rigid plan, as well as the role of collaboration and consistency in growing a neighborhood staple.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Introduction to Jordan Renouf and Brick Street Bagels

[00:00:48] Origins of the brand’s cardboard box aesthetic and necessity-driven design

[00:02:36] Handmade bagel process and hands-on production

[00:03:31] Early entrepreneurial experiences and background in politics

[00:06:41] Moving to Boston and identifying the lack of bagels in the South End

[00:07:42] Starting the business as a way to meet neighbors post-pandemic

[00:08:26] Using Instagram as a tool despite no prior social media experience

[00:09:15] Early delivery model using a bike to reach customers directly

[00:10:30] Product limitations and early-stage learning curve

[00:11:31] Transition to Bar Mazzana kitchen and scaling production

[00:12:37] First pop-ups at Neighborhood Wines and community response

[00:13:27] Pitching local restaurants for kitchen space and securing Bar Mazzana

[00:15:54] Hiring the first employee and building the team

[00:17:18] Early morning baking routine and experience of working overnight

[00:18:36] Folding table pop-ups and growing customer demand

[00:20:15] Managing supply limitations and selling out quickly

[00:21:24] Weather challenges and need for indoor operations

[00:22:23] Transition to The Buttery and establishing a physical space

[00:23:17] Creating a community-focused environment beyond just selling bagels

[00:24:18] Expansion to a permanent location on Clarendon Street

[00:26:09] Favorite collaboration with Little Donkey and Ken Oringer

[00:26:57] Best-selling and favorite bagel flavors

[00:28:35] Approach to Instagram and content creation philosophy

[00:31:03] Avoiding algorithm-driven content strategies in favor of authenticity

[00:33:14] Advice on social media and taking small steps toward big goals

[00:34:35] Importance of team trust, delegation, and building culture

Links:

Brick Street Bagels: https://www.brickstreetbagels.org/

Find out more about South End Business Alliance:

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.sebaboston.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Find out more about South End Local:

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