The Good Bagel debuts on Mariposa’s culinary landscape

Contributed by
Travis Blagg

On June 16, Father’s Day, a new eating establishment opened its doors. In the short amount of time it has been open, The Good Bagel has become a welcome addition to the culinary landscape of Mariposa.

Tina and Damien Pricolo are now offering delicious, fresh home-made bagels to the Mariposa community and they’ve been selling out of their in-demand creations each and every day.

The Pricolo’s purchased a home in Mariposa in 2012 and moved here permanently in 2017. Since that time, starting a bakery has been on the forefront of Tina’s mind.

Starting The Good Bagel was a challenge for Tina; one she embraced after recognizing the scarcity of quality bagels. “It’s not easy to find good bagels, so I thought I would give it a try. I had always dreamed of opening my own tiny bakery,” she explained

She says making bagels isa labor of love. “I like that about bagels; you work hard and you get a delicious bagel. I enjoy the hard work and the reward is wonderful when someone returns for more,” Tina added.

The news of their quality bagels is definitely spreading around Mariposa, with local residents rushing to get their bagel fix before the inevitable sell-out each day.

Tina’s former profession of Architectural Monument Signage is a far cry from, say, getting the perfect hydration ratio for a bagel.

The inspiration that pointed Tina toward her current life as a baker came from her grandmother. According to Tina, she was a great baker and nurturer. “Thinking of her baking brings back happy memories. When I am baking I am with her again,” Tina fondly recalled.

When asked what sets The Good Bagels’ wares apart from the bagels commonly purchased at the grocery store, the answer is simple: freshness.

Their bagels are freshly baked and they offer a wide variety of toppings. Spicy Garlic, Jalapeno Pepper Jack, Kalamata Olives and Thyme are just a sampling of the types of bagels one can find at The Good Bagel.

“Customers also have a huge impact on our toppings. Make a request and we will make it. Cinnamon Raisin and Sesame are two additions they’ve adopted because of customer input,” Tina noted.

The couple said that probably the biggest obstacle they faced with starting The Good Bagel was locating the right storefront. They both had a particular look in mind when they were searching and they found it right on Highway 140.

“We created a pop-up style store front to sell our bagels and other baked items. It’s an eclectic style, offering something fun for everyone. We hope to create an inviting and relaxing atmosphere, to pop in or stay for a bagel and coffee,” said Tina.

The bagels are $4 and plain, strawberry or jalapeno cream cheese is an additional $1. The 12-ounce house drip coffee is $2.

“Times are tough and everything is so expensive, so it’s nice to have something that is tasty and easy on the wallet. We look forward to offering a good bagel to all,” she beamed.

The Good Bagel is open from 7:30 a.m. until they’re sold out, Friday through Monday. The quaint shop is at 5010 B Highway 140 (the old Daily Real Estate building at 140 and 4th Street) and can be reached at (209) 347-9216.