Henry Higgins Boiled Bagels Opens Retail Cafe

Leah Orndoff, former general manager of the revered Kettleman's bagel chain, started Henry Higgins Boiled Bagels with two other Kettleman's alums two years ago, after the infamous Einstein Bagel Co. takeover. Their goal was to bring "proper" bagels back to Portland (hence the reference to the professor in the film "My Fair Lady"). They succeeded, and the fast-growing company is touted as making some of the city's best bagels, mostly sold through wholesale accounts.

But today the bagelry made the leap into retail, opening its first cafe and bagel shop at SE 64th Avenue and Foster Road. In addition to its 11 bagel flavors and cream cheese spreads, the 14-seat space, decorated with works from local artists, will offer breakfast and lunch bagel sandwiches. Coffee comes from Mudd Works, and is served in mugs handmade by Orndoff's friend, ceramicist Cooper Jeppesen.

Henry Higgins Boiled Bagels Cafe: 6420 SE Foster Road, Portland. Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.