Call Your Mother Opens Second Chicago Bagel Shop in Lakeview

Bagel buyers in Lakeview have a new option at 2956 N. Sheffield Ave. The location opened on Monday, adding a second Chicago outlet to Call Your Mother, a chain that originated at a farmers market in Washington, D.C. The shop serves the same menu as its Wicker Park predecessor, featuring bagels, breakfast sandwiches, deli items, pastries, and coffee.

Co-founders Andrew Dana and Daniela Moreira launched the business in 2018. Dana grew up eating deli food, while Moreira, an Argentine chef, had never consumed a bagel prior to starting the company. Their product blends the chewy texture of New York-style bagels with the sweetness of Montreal-style ones. The dough is boiled in malt and baked daily, with a smaller hole designed to support heavier fillings.

The company’s expansion follows a period of local debate. When the Wicker Park location opened in May, residents questioned the brand's status as an independent business after it sold a majority stake to investment firm Invus the previous year. Local business owners urged customers to prioritize independent shops during that period.

Dana stated that the Lakeview site was selected based on employee and customer recommendations. He cited the residential atmosphere, the proximity to hospitals, and the ability to customize the corner building as key factors. The exterior features a wooden canoe, vintage camp pennants, and a painting of telephone wires by local muralist Kevin Garbacz.

Dana addressed the corporate structure concerns by noting that he and Moreira retain operational control. He argued that the investment has allowed the company to create leadership roles for staff. Eight employees who joined the original D.C. location have since moved into director-level positions in marketing, accounting, and operations. Dana said the expansion enables the company to offer career advancement and benefits while maintaining quality standards.

The chain plans to open four or five additional Chicago locations in the near future. The current Lakeview menu includes the Jetski sandwich, which features brisket, pastrami, sofrito, jalapeño, and cheddar and American cheeses on a cheddar bagel. The shop also sells babka muffins, cookies, and a seasonal banana bread matcha latte. Hours are 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays and 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends.