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Star Bagel
Master Critic Review
Star Bagel
8.2
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Compact Polk Street counter spot focused on bagels and bagel sandwiches with speedy service. Expect classic combos done right and prices that make it an easy weekday habit.
Must-Try Dishes:
Everything with chive schmear, Lox bagel (capers, onion), Bacon, egg & cheese
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Straightforward, well-priced bagels with quick turnaround on Polk.
Who should go: Bagel traditionalists on a budget
When to visit: Weekday mornings before commuter rush
What to order: Everything + chive; Lox bagel; BEC on plain
Insider tip: Order ahead online to skip the peak a.m. line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking only; spots turn over fairly often in the mornings but get tight after 9am.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are, no dress code enforced.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy for quick conversation while ordering or eating.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—shop closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, 5–10 minutes at peak midday.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plain bagels, cream cheeses, and several veggie sandwich builds are available.
Vegan options: Limited—plain bagels with hummus or avocado are possible, but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free bagels are offered.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it's a compact counter spot better for quick solo or casual visits than lingering dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are a few counter seats, and no reservations are accepted or needed.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick stops—simple menu and casual setup work for kids, but there are limited seats and no high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable bagels and sandwiches at true grab-and-go speed.
Skip if: You want gluten-free options, spacious seating, or a sit-down brunch atmosphere.