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Pick A Bagel
Master Critic Review
Pick A Bagel
8.3
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Comfort Food Classics
A classic NYC counter where the win is repeatable execution: chewy bagels, fast assembly, and a build-your-own rhythm that works for everyday breakfasts. Treat it like a precision order—one toasted bagel, one spread, one protein—and it stays clean and satisfying under steady neighborhood traffic. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Must-Try Dishes:
Everything bagel with scallion cream cheese, Bacon, egg & cheese on an everything bagel, Nova lox bagel with capers & red onion
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A no-drama neighborhood bagel counter built for repeatable daily orders.
Who should go: Bagel purists who want speed
When to visit: Weekday mornings before 9am
What to order: Everything + scallion, BEC, lox bagel
Insider tip: Order one bagel first—add a second only if you’re still hungry.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited availability on surrounding blocks, especially during weekday mornings. Public transit is the easiest option.
Dress code: Very casual — everyday streetwear, athleisure, or work commute clothes are all standard.
Noise level: Low to moderate — counter noise and foot traffic, but fine for short conversations.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — primarily a breakfast and daytime counter spot.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; brief line during peak breakfast hours (8–9am).
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — egg-and-cheese sandwiches, bagels with spreads, and vegetable add-ons.
Vegan options: Limited — plain bagels with select vegetable spreads or avocado; confirm spreads before ordering.
Gluten-free options: Limited — gluten-free bagels may be available, but cross-contamination is possible in a shared prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional date — it’s a quick, functional stop best suited for casual daytime meetups rather than lingering conversations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no reservations; seating is minimal and first-come, first-served. Most people order to-go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple menu, fast service, and flexible ordering make it easy for kids, though seating is limited.
Best For
Better for: Fast, consistent everyday bagels with customizable builds and reliable execution.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down café vibe, artisanal toppings, or a destination-style bagel experience.