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Lake Tahoe is a land of splendor. But local Jeff Kaplan saw a place where it was lacking.
Seeing a need for freshly made bagels in South Lake Tahoe, Jeff and his big brother, Justin, decided to fulfill what many knew was a needed endeavor: Tahoe Bagel Company. With a lifetime of learning the ropes through his family, the New Jersey brother-duo brought to the sandy shores of Big Blue the know how and desire to create the freshest bagel possible. Despite the woes that the pandemic has forced on business owners, Jeff and Justin prevailed, making bagels a part of the future for Tahoe.
In gratitude for this amenity that Jeff helped to bring to our community, I thought it only appropriate to get to know this recent local. Keep reading to learn more about Jeff and why Tahoe is the best place for him to call home.
How long have you lived on Lake Tahoe?
Almost six years.
Where did you grow up and live before you came here?
I'm from New Jersey. I was born and raised in central New Jersey and went to college in South Jersey at Rowan University.
Jeff and Justin signing paperwork for a second location opening in the lower Kingsbury area. Photo credit Tahoe Bagel Company
What’s your favorite Lake Tahoe town or village?
South Lake Tahoe!
What is your favorite thing about living in Lake Tahoe?
Quality of life. I can (depending the season) ski, mountain bike, play on the lake and golf in just a short drive. Sometimes all in the same day!
What’s your favorite season in Tahoe?
Winter.
What’s your favorite Lake Tahoe beach access?
I plead the 5th.
Jeff enjoying time on Lake Tahoe with his best friend. Photo credit Jeff Kaplan
Do you have a favorite trail or area to access the mountains?
In the summer, Corral or Toads. In the winter any of our amazing ski resorts or Blue Lakes when I’m snowmobiling.
What do you do for fun?
Live the Tahoe life! Ski, snowmobile, mountain bike, golf, wake surf.
Describe your perfect day off.
Never heard of a day off. But after a drama free breakfast service, getting out and doing any of things I mentioned in the previous question.
Do you see more sunsets or sunrises?
Sunsets for sure.
What’s one thing you wish more Lake Tahoe visitors knew?
How hard this community works to make this place so special to our visitors.
Where do you go on vacation?
Back to New Jersey, Florida, and international travel when work allows it.
For a celebratory dinner, would you rather order take-out, go out to eat or cook something at home?
Go out to eat around South Lake.
What’s your favorite meal of the day, and where in Lake Tahoe would you get it?
All bias aside, breakfast at Tahoe Bagel Co. (that’s one of the reasons we opened the shop as selfish as it sounds).
The beauty of Lake Tahoe and the deliciousness of Tahoe Bagel Co. go hand in hand. Photo credit Tahoe Bagel Co.
What’s your favorite thing about your job?
My amazing staff. Being the boss, it's definitely something I've always wanted and the community of Tahoe delivered.
Do you have any side hustles?
Bagels, bagels, bagels.
What’s your favorite way to unwind from a stressful day?
A walk with the dogs on the lake or maybe a couple of cocktails with some friends. Or both!
What’s one item on your bucket list?
To go helicopter skiing.
After grabbing a bite at Tahoe Bagel Company, be sure to check out one of the amazing events happening around Lake Tahoe. Learn more at our Daytime and Nightlife pages.
About the Author Shanie Matthews
A longtime Lake Tahoe local, Shanie is a freelance writer, Vinyasa Flow yoga teacher and positivity warrior. A true lover of the the gorgeous Tahoe region, she connects with the serenity of the mountains via skiing, biking and backpacking. She also believes in the gift of yoga and its way of allowing one to become his or her true best self, a passion she shares with the world with her online yoga studio.
