Ferry Feature #1 Matt Andrews: Jeff’s Bagel Run

If you’ve spotted a line of people leaving with paper bags and big smiles on Clements Ferry Road lately, chances are they’ve just been to Jeff’s Bagel Run — a New York–style bagel shop with a story as fresh as the bagels themselves.

Matt Andrews, a Mount Pleasant native and College of Charleston graduate, is one of the local franchise owners bringing the brand to the Lowcountry. But this isn’t your average “big chain moves to town” story — it’s rooted in friendship, community, and a bit of pandemic-era serendipity.

From Garage to Growing Nationwide

The company started in Orlando in 2019, when founder Jeff Perera lost his job due to COVID. Encouraged by his wife, Danielle, Jeff turned his garage into a mini bakery, perfecting a bagel recipe that quickly won over the neighborhood. Orders exploded, leading to two brick-and-mortar shops almost immediately. Today, Jeff’s Bagel Run is growing coast-to-coast, with over 100 stores open or in development  in Las Vegas, Chicago, and now Charleston.

Matt’s Path to Bagels

Before stepping into the bagel game, Matt’s career looked quite different. After law school, he joined his family’s law firm and later launched a small consulting business focused on helping other small businesses secure available tax credits. That entrepreneurial spark, paired with his deep Charleston roots, eventually opened the door for something new.

Matt’s business partner, Matt Immerfall, introduced him to Jeff’s Bagel Run in early 2023.

“When he asked me what I thought about bagels, I said I love them — but I’d never run a bagel shop before,” Matt laughs. “Once I met Jeff, Danielle, and the whole team in Orlando, I was sold. They’ve been incredible about helping us get off the ground.”

The Fresh Difference

Unlike many bagel shops that bake once in the morning, Jeff’s bakes throughout the day in small batches, so customers can often grab a hot, fresh bagel straight from the oven.

Customers can pair their fresh bagels with an abundance of spread choices. 

Why doesn’t JBR apply spreads for the customers like other bagel joints?

“‘It really comes down to two things — speed and consistency,” Matt states. “By letting customers take their bagels home and spread the cream cheese or other toppings themselves, we can keep the line moving quickly, especially during the morning rush. It also ensures everyone gets exactly what they want, in the amount they prefer. Some people like it light, some people want it loaded — this way, it’s always just right for them.”

And if you’re looking for a stacked deli or breakfast sandwich, you won’t find it here — by design.“We stick to what we do best: bagels, spreads, and coffee. It keeps the line moving, the quality high, and customers in and out quickly,” Matt explains.

Why Clements Ferry?

For Matt, the decision was personal.

“I’ve lived in Charleston my whole life — grew up in Mount Pleasant — so I know how special this area is,” he says. “Clements Ferry is growing so fast. We wanted to make our mark before it continues to explode and really be part of the community as it develops.”

Looking Ahead

With new stores on Clements Ferry, Isle of Palms, Bees Ferry Road, and plans for locations to open soon in James Island and Mount Pleasant, Matt is excited to continue to bring this New York-style staple to Southern tables. He’s also quick to credit the warm welcome from locals. “It’s been awesome to see the response from the community. We just want to keep delivering the best bagel experience we can.”

Rapid Fire w/ Matt:

- Favorite beach: Sullivan’s Island

- Go-to dinner spot: Hall’s Chophouse

- Underrated Charleston Activity: Shark Tooth Hunting on Drum Island

📍 Visit Jeff’s Bagel Run – Clements Ferry

Fresh bagels. Local ownership. Community connection.