Phil and Patty Santomassi, former owners of Beach Bagels and Donut Inn, are setting their sights on bringing bagels to South Wilmington.

Bagel Meister is expected to serve homemade, old-fashioned bagels as well as baked goods, coffee and breakfast and lunch sandwiches at Masonboro Commons Shopping Center. The Santomassis' longtime baker, who has worked with them for the past 20 years in various restaurants, will lead the kitchen.

While customers can expect many of the traditional bagel flavors, the Santomassis plan to put their own twist on things by incorporating some creative and unique flavor combinations. 

“We’re definitely thinking outside the box with the bagels,” Phil Santomassi said. “We’ll have bacon bagels, rainbow bagels, maybe even a bagel burger, and lots of fun options to coincide with each of the holidays.”

Dine-in and carry-out service will be available, as well as full breakfast and lunch catering. The 1,200-square-foot store will offer both indoor and outdoor seating and also has drive-thru. 

Phil Santomassi said that after researching several areas of town for his next venture, he feels that the area between Monkey Junction and Carolina Beach continues to experience growth and yet offers very little in terms of breakfast and more specifically, bagels.

“Other family-owned businesses such as PT’s have done very well in that area because they consistently put out a good product,” he said. “I really feel it’s a good location for the product we want to put out.”

The Santomassis anticipate opening in remodeled space at Masonboro Commons, 6400 Carolina Beach Road, in May. 

Two national chains, Jersey Mike's Subs and Planet Smoothie, have also signed up for space in Masonboro Commons, according to a recent announcement.