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Pop's Bagels Arts District
Master Critic Review
Pop's Bagels Arts District
8.7
Pop's Bagels brings its crusty, well-fermented rounds to a bright Arts District corner shop where bagel sandwiches and housemade schmears are the clear focus. The menu leans West Coast—think lox on seeded bagels and egg-and-cheese builds—while still scratching a classic New York itch for chew and snap. It’s the most well-rounded option in 90013 when you want a full bagel breakfast or lunch rather than just a pastry on the side.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Lox Bagel Sandwich, Egg & Cheese on Sesame Bagel, House Schmear on Everything Bagel
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Artisanal, West Coast–leaning bagels with serious chew and schmears.
Who should go: Bagel fans wanting a full cafe experience in Arts District.
When to visit: Early mornings or late breakfast to dodge peak lines.
What to order: Classic lox, egg-and-cheese, everything bagel with house schmear.
Insider tip: Order online first, then grab a sidewalk table facing Traction.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Traction Ave and adjacent blocks; meters can fill quickly on weekends but early mornings are easy. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual — gym clothes, jeans, and weekend wear all fit in fine.
Noise level: Moderate — counter service bustle inside, quieter at the sidewalk tables.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — breakfast/lunch-focused; morning rush can run 15–25 minutes.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes depending on line; typically quick turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong — multiple builds with eggs, cheese, and veggie schmears.
Vegan options: Limited — plain bagels available but spreads and sandwiches skew dairy-heavy.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free bagels; not suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual, daytime dates — outdoor seating and quick service make it low-pressure, though it’s not ideal if you want a long, lingering meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — no reservations here. Tables are first-come, first-served, but turnover is fast and outdoor seats usually open up.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — counter service, quick food, and simple bagel builds work well for families, though stroller space inside is limited during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Best for high-quality bagel sandwiches with West Coast freshness and consistently balanced schmears.
Skip if: Skip if you need gluten-free options, a full brunch menu with plated entrées, or a quiet indoor dining room.