When it comes to bagels, Winnipeggers are about to experience something entirely new. Opening November 15 at 692 St. Anne’s Road, The Forge Bagel Co. is ready to redefine what a bagel can be.
Behind the venture is a passionate father-daughter team, Glen and Rachelle Demetrioff, who have spent nearly two years perfecting what they call the world’s first “Polishire” bagel — a unique fusion of Polish and British traditions inspired by their global travels and obsession with craftsmanship.
From Europe to St. Anne’s Road
“Our Polishire bagels revisit old-world craftsmanship where time was less of a commodity,” says Rachelle Demetrioff, co-founder and Director of Operations. “Each bagel is hand-stretched, boiled in malted barley, and baked until golden. We wanted to bring that depth of flavour and texture back to something so simple, yet so loved.”
The Forge Bagel Co. isn’t a franchise or a concept imported from elsewhere — it’s a homegrown Winnipeg brand born from the idea that food made with time, care, and purpose can spark connection. Their recipes evolved through countless experiments and conversations with master bakers across Europe before being perfected here at home.
Old-World Method Meets Bold New Flavour
Every bagel at The Forge is shaped using a traditional poke-and-stretch method and made from locally sourced ingredients. Their flavour-infused doughs ensure that every bite — not just the crust — delivers full taste and texture.
The lineup includes timeless favourites like Everything In and Old-World Sesame Seed, alongside inventive creations such as Double Blueberry, Jalapeño & Old Cheddar, and Banana Bread Chocolate Chip.
To complete the experience, The Forge offers an assortment of “lifts” — small-batch, house-made cream cheeses, butter creams, and jams designed to complement each bagel.
And because a good bagel deserves great coffee, The Forge has developed its own custom Anvil Espresso blend, locally roasted and fine-tuned through months of tastings. “Every detail is about elevating the experience for our guests,” says Rachelle.
A Warm Welcome to the Community
For Glen Demetrioff, co-founder and President, the vision behind The Forge extends beyond baking.
“Our mission is to make someone smile and brighten their day,” he says. “With quality, craft, and kindness at our core, we want everyone to leave The Forge feeling better than when they arrived.”
That philosophy has already resonated with locals. Even before opening day, The Forge drew over 1,200 volunteer taste testers, a clear sign of Winnipeg’s enthusiasm for local, handcrafted food and the excitement surrounding this fresh take on a classic staple.
The Forge Opens November 15
The Forge Bagel Co. officially opens Saturday, November 15, welcoming Winnipeggers to taste their one-of-a-kind Polishire bagels and meet the team that forged them. Whether you’re a lifelong bagel lover or a curious foodie, this is one launch worth lining up for.
📍 Location: 692 St. Anne’s Road, Winnipeg, MB
🌐 Website: theforgebagel.com
📞 Contact: gdemetrioff5@theforgebagel.com | (204) 294-0547
Story provided in collaboration with The Show and Tell Agency on behalf of The Forge Bagel Co.
Did You Know?
Did you know that The Forge’s Polishire style is believed to be the first of its kind in the world? The name blends “Polish” and “Shire,” reflecting both Eastern European tradition and British baking influence — a nod to the father-daughter duo’s roots and travels.
