Santa Monica’s longtime favorite, New York Bagel Deli & Bakery, located at 2216 Wilshire Boulevard, is entering a new era under the leadership of husband-and-wife team Adaeze Nwanonyiri and Lenny Rosenberg.
The Nigerian and Jewish duo officially took ownership of the iconic shop on February 28, 2025, bringing with them a fresh multicultural perspective, an expanded dessert menu, and an eye for thoughtful design. Established in 1992, NYBD & Bakery has been renowned for its authentic East Coast-style bagels, house-cured deli meats, and classic sandwiches. Now, it is also home to an international bakery program that reflects the couple’s backgrounds and shared passion for global cuisine.
Under Rosenberg’s direction, who brings more than 30 years of baking experience, the menu now includes an expanded multicultural dessert lineup that is as diverse as it is delicious. Bakery highlights include almond horns, chocolate chip rugelach, New York black & whites, flourless chocolate cake, and bagel donuts. The full dessert case is rounded out with classic New York-style offerings alongside international inspirations. For bagel enthusiasts, the shop continues to offer hand-rolled, freshly baked bagels in flavors such as plain, sesame, poppy, everything, cinnamon raisin, and wheat.
In response to growing dietary needs, they have added a comprehensive gluten-free bagel selection catering to customers with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Beyond the kitchen, Adaeze has overseen a detailed redesign of the space. Interior updates feature crystal glass bakery cases showcasing the vibrant dessert offerings, while the exterior has been refreshed with tropical elements, including tarp-covered seating, ebony black plush chairs and tables, and three pine trees, which bring a touch of Los Angeles’ breezy atmosphere to the traditional East Coast-style deli.
The couple’s work is also featured in their international baking and design book, It’s A Sweet World: International Recipes Around the Globe at Bea’s Bakery, available at both NYBD & Bakery and online through Amazon and Target. Their culinary journey is also the focus of the television show “It’s a Sweet World” on Jewish Life Television. New York Bagel Deli & Bakery continues to serve up fresh, hand-rolled bagels daily alongside an ever-growing selection of international pastries.
The deli remains committed to quality, community, and creativity, honoring its New York roots while embracing a global culinary future. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. To view the full menu or learn more, visit nybdbakery.com. With its reimagined look, globally inspired offerings, and dedicated new ownership, New York Bagel Deli & Bakery is carving out a vibrant new niche in the heart of Santa Monica.
