Einstein Bros. Bagels in Hixson recently upgraded its sunny patio, and now, it features furniture nicer than I have in my home. There are a cushioned loveseat and armchair, an assortment of café tables and a chimney-like fireplace that will be perfect when the weather cools down – which, I know, is impossible to imagine right now.
“It’s actually much cooler out there than you’d think,” said shift manager Amber Randall, nodding to the patio.
In addition to its furniture upgrade, Einstein also added new “shade sails,” stretched taut over the patio and treated with special ultraviolet stabilizers, so they not only look cool but provide optimal shade protection – even during the hottest stretch of the day, aka lunchtime.
EINSTEIN BROS. BAGELS
Address: 7737 E. Brainerd Road and 5237 Hixson Pike Hours: Monday-Friday from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Phone: Brainerd location at 423-355-5380 Hixson location at 423-777-5802.
Einstein’s new Lunch Combo special might be the reprieve you need. The deal lets diners choose one of its deli sandwiches, a side and a fountain drink or coffee, all for $5.99. Sandwich options are turkey and cheddar, ham and Swiss, tuna salad and chicken salad. Sides are fresh fruit, potato salad or Kettle chips.