Classic Plantation Bagel Shop Files for Bankruptcy

For nearly 50 years, Marian's Bagels has been the kind of spot you have to know about to love. Tucked into a Plantation shopping center, the no-frills Jewish deli has built a loyal following with its classic bagels, schmears, and tuna salad that regulars swear by. So popular, in fact, that it was recently named one of New Times' 9 Best Bagels in Fort Lauderdale. But after half a century in business, the beloved institution is facing an uncertain future.

According to a voluntary petition submitted on August 22, L & D Cafe, Inc., which operates as Marian's Bagels, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the Southern District of Florida (Case No. 25-19748). The filing allows the restaurant to continue serving while it attempts to restructure debts that could total as much as $10 million. According to the petition, the company has fewer than 50 creditors and assets valued at less than $50,000.

Major creditors include Alan M. Winter and Robin Winter, co-trustees of the Alan M. Living Trust, who hold a $400,000 corporate guaranty claim. Other creditors range from local suppliers such as Romano's Bakery of Boca, Inc. ($28,404) and FSM Foods International ($10,780) to an $8,251 balance on the restaurant’s American Express Business Card.
While Chapter 11 is designed to help small businesses reorganize and continue operating, the filing casts a shadow over one of Plantation's longest-running restaurants. Since 1975, Marian's has been more than just a bagel shop — it's been a community gathering place, where locals head for a quick breakfast before work, retirees linger over coffee, and generations of Broward residents return for the same comfort food they grew up with.

For now, the restaurant's doors remain open at 248 S. University Dr., and fans can still get their hands on Marian's bagels piled high with lox or slathered with cream cheese with a side of their delicious tuna salad. But with liabilities far outweighing assets, the coming months will determine whether Marian's can successfully restructure or if Plantation may lose yet another piece of its dining history.

Marian's Bagels. 248 S. University Dr., Plantation; 954-370-6975; mariansbagels.com.