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Kossar's Bagels & Bialys
ZipPicks Awards
Best Sandwiches in Upper East Side
Master Critic Review
Kossar's Bagels & Bialys
7.8
A beloved neighborhood bagel and deli counter known for fresh bagels, bialys and breakfast‑to‑lunch sandwiches on quality breads. The spot brings a classic New York bagel house energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smoked Salmon Bagel, Egg & Cheese Sandwich, Bialy with Cream Cheese
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Classic bagel house sandwiches with NYC heritage
Who should go: Bagel and deli sandwich fans
When to visit: Morning to early afternoon
What to order: Smoked Salmon Bagel, Egg & Cheese, Bialy Cream Cheese
Insider tip: Try a fresh‑baked bialy while supplies last
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be challenging during peak hours. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual – jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate – the space can get busy, but it's generally easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: No dinner service. Expect no wait for lunch on weekends, but busy mornings.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically during weekdays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several bagel and sandwich options are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited – there are a few vegan-friendly spreads and sandwiches, but options are minimal.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free bagels are available upon request.
Best For
Better for: Better for a quick, traditional New York bagel experience with a nostalgic deli feel. Their bagels and bialys are fresh and the sandwiches are classic.
Skip if: If you're looking for a quieter or more sit-down experience, or if you prefer more variety in vegan and gluten-free options, consider alternatives.