What started as a casual joke turned into one of the Keys’ latest family-run business ventures.
Danny and David Sandoval, owners of Marathon’s Island Tire since 2023, were talking with the then-owner of popular breakfast nook Marathon Bagel Co. when the idea of selling the business was mentioned. The comment sparked curiosity, and soon, the brothers found themselves seriously considering the opportunity.
“We started looking into it more and more and more, and ended up buying it for real,” Danny said. “We told (the previous owner) Mike (Minni) we were going to put in an offer, and he thought we were joking. That’s how we ended up getting involved.”
On Feb. 19, the deal was finalized, officially bringing both of the company’s popular breakfast spots in Marathon and Islamorada under the ownership of the Sandoval brothers.
The transition from tire repair to bagels might seem unexpected, but for the Sandovals, it makes perfect sense. Danny has been in the Keys for over 13 years, working in the restaurant industry for a decade before moving into the tire business. David, who joined him in the Keys nearly two years ago, previously owned a Mexican restaurant in California. Noe, the third brother, now handles the bagel-making. He brings three years of restaurant experience from California to the role.
Danny had frequently enjoyed the food at Marathon Bagel Co. and loved stopping by for breakfast – before the chance to take over the business presented itself.
“We’re always looking for new opportunities, trying different things, and growing the family business more,” he said.
Their experience in hospitality, combined with their passion for business, made taking on Marathon Bagel Co. a natural next step.
The Marathon morning pit stop has long been a local favorite, known for its fresh bagels and friendly atmosphere. The Sandovals are dedicated to keeping that reputation alive.
“We are going to try and run it the same way for now, just because we’re new to the business,” Danny said. “As we go, we’ll see what changes we need to make to make it better for customers and us.”
Their priorities? Maintaining the same level of cleanliness, quality and customer service that made the shop a hotspot for locals and tourists alike since 2016.
The Sandoval brothers are no strangers to working together. Two years ago, Danny and David took over Island Tire, a local spot just down the street from Marathon Bagel. Now, Noe joins them, keeping it all in the family and helping the business grow.
“Working with family is so much different than working for someone else,” Noe said. “We are always looking out for each other. Family is a big thing for us.”
Running two businesses at once comes with its challenges, but for the Sandovals, the rewards far outweigh the difficulties. As business owners, they’ve seen firsthand how their hard work has created opportunities for their family and a better life than they had a decade ago.
For the Sandoval brothers, success is best when it’s shared with family and a fresh bagel on the side.
Marathon Bagel Co.’s two locations are at 11090 Overseas Hwy. in Marathon and 86701 Overseas Hwy. in Islamorada. For pickup, call 305-517-6393 (Marathon) or 305-735-4247 (Islamorada) to order and ask about daily specials. More information is at marathonbagelco.com.
