ORANGE PARK -Start spreading the news: Park Avenue NY Bagels, located at 1177 Park Ave., is open and ready to bring authentic flavor from New York to their new local business in Orange Park.

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Tuesday, June 30, complete with enthusiastic customers and samples of best-selling bagels, from classic flavors like Asiago and Everything to the more unique Rainbow and Chocolate Chip.

It truly is a family affair for the Albarracins. Owners Leonardo and Claudia Albarracin celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary on the day of the ribbon cutting, alongside members of the Clay County Chamber of Commerce, fellow local business owners, their family and community members that they hope will come to their bagel shop and feel like family.

Leonardo and Claudia first opened their restaurant as Holey Moley NY Bagels in 2024. They faced all the challenges of starting a small local business, but never stopped building their dream ... together.

After much hard work, the Albarracins have transformed their space into an inviting cafe with NYC-themed decor, a wall of merchandise, a menu that boasts even more than bagels and, of course, their smiling faces.

Beyond business, Leonardo and Claudia believe in giving back to the community. They serve with Grace Ministries Without Walls to deliver over 150 meals to the homeless every week, and they work with Springs Church to prepare meals and assist with the clothing ministry.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony opened with prayer and heartfelt gratitude from the Albarracins for the opportunities God has given them and the community they have been blessed to serve.

Each guest was invited to sign the ribbon after the ceremony, to thank them for their support.

Other local business owners are also welcome to promote themselves and leave their business cards in the shop.

Park Avenue NY Bagels is open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday.

The Albarracins are living the New York spirit. If they can make it there, they can make it anywhere — that is, with faith, family and their Orange Park community.