By Lori Fredrich Senior Food Writer, Dining Editor, Podcast Host Published Dec 04, 2019 at 7:30 PM Photography: Lori Fredrich

Making bagels is an art. It's also a science.  And when the two come together, the result is a near work of art. The ideal bagel possesses  a glossy caramelized exterior, a distinctive crispness and a soft, chewy interior that has a mellow, yet complex flavor. 

Among the passionate bakers who've embarked on the quest to create perfectly chewy finely flavored bagels is Daniela Ruby Varela, the owner of Ruby’s Bagels.

During this week's podcast, Varela shares the story of her serendipitous journey to business ownership and her experience as the inaugural incubator truck at the Zócalo Food Park.  She also reveals (some of) the secrets behind her delicious bagels and gives us a peek at her plans for the future. Along the way, we chat about the Milwaukee food scene, the "Great British Baking Show" and the power of community and collaboration.

Listen in!

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Lori Fredrich Senior Food Writer, Dining Editor, Podcast Host

Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with each and every dish. She’s had the privilege of chronicling these tales via numerous media, including OnMilwaukee and in her book “Milwaukee Food.” Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.

When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or recording the FoodCrush podcast, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.