TLDR
Famous for massive, chewy, hole-less bagels and generous cream cheese smears. A classic NYC deli institution that's been a breakfast staple since 1976.
Instagram Posts References
The post showcases generous and delicious-looking egg and cheese bagel sandwiches from Ess-a-Bagel. The image captures the texture and ingredients of the bagels, highlighting the melted cheese and sausage patties. The overall presentation, along with the presence of iced coffee, suggests a satisfying breakfast or brunch experience.
This establishment is recommended as part of the GoCity New York Mini Guide for its casual dining and bagels.
Details
Since opening in 1976, this institution has become world-famous for its signature, oversized bagels featuring a thick, crusty exterior and a dense, chewy center [1], [2]. While many patrons consider it an essential NYC food experience, recent feedback highlights a polarizing divide between loyalists who cherish the classic deli tradition and critics who point toward inconsistent quality or perceived tourist-trap status [3]. Whether enjoyed with a generous smear of cream cheese or as a substantial breakfast sandwich, it remains a heavily frequented staple of the Manhattan bagel scene [1], [4].
Food Overview
Known for enormous, dense, and chewy bagels that lack a traditional hole, they are highly regarded for their generous portions [1], [5]. Customers often recommend the wide variety of house-made cream cheeses [1], though some diners caution against the hot food items, specifically noting the use of microwaved eggs in sandwiches [6].
Customer Sentiment
Sentiment is split between long-time fans who praise the bagels as a quintessential NYC tradition and critics who argue the quality has declined or that the establishment has become an overpriced tourist trap [3]. Service is generally efficient, with quick-moving lines despite occasional crowds [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About ESS-A-BAGEL
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Searching For An Uws Manhattan Replacement For
"Mentioned as a bagel spot."
NeutralFrom post: Affordable Coffee With Larger Size Options 20
"The user suggests bagel shops like Essa as good spots for larger iced coffees."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Dad Daughter Food Recommendations In
"Great spot for many different types of bagels."
PositiveFrom post: Any Musteat Restaurants In This General Vicinity
"Mentioned as a restaurant in the area."
NeutralFrom post: Eaters World Fare In Nyc Quick Review 18 July 2026
"The user complained about high pricing at the event booth compared to what is available at the restaurant's permanent locations."
NegativeFrom post: Best Bagel And Lox I Had So Far Apollo Bagels In
"The user notes a decline in quality, referencing the NYT dropping them from a best-of list."
NegativeFrom post: Best Bagel And Lox I Had So Far Apollo Bagels In
"The user enjoys the bagels, though notes they are physically enormous and lack a hole."
PositiveFrom post: Would You Recommend Zuckers Or Utopia Bagels In
"This commenter recommends ESSA at 831 3rd Ave as the best bagel option within walking distance."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Get Some Sort Of Good Chocolate Bread
"This user mentions receiving a complimentary slice of marble cake from Ess-a-Bagel, describing it as somewhat bready and quite good."
PositiveFrom post: Visiting From Seattle With A Group Critique My
"This user recommended dropping Ess-a-Bagel from the itinerary."
NegativeFrom post: Visiting From Seattle With A Group Critique My
"This commenter advised skipping Ess-a-Bagel."
NegativeFrom post: Visiting From Seattle With A Group Critique My
"The user is planning a trip to NYC and included Ess-a-Bagel on their list of potential restaurants to visit."
NeutralFrom post: Visiting From Seattle With A Group Critique My
"This user advised skipping Ess-a-Bagel and suggested Tal Bagel as an alternative if in the area, or consulting a bagel list otherwise."
NegativeFrom post: Bagel And Coffee Spots With Minimal Lines Around
"The user added Ess-a-bagel to their list after receiving a recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Bagel And Coffee Spots With Minimal Lines Around
"This user finds the lines at Ess-a-bagel to be trustworthy in terms of moving quickly."
NeutralFrom post: Bagel And Coffee Spots With Minimal Lines Around
"The commenter states that the longest they have ever waited at Ess-a-bagel was 10 minutes and considers it their favorite bagel spot in NYC."
PositiveFrom post: Bagel And Coffee Spots With Minimal Lines Around
"This user indicated that pre-ordering online is the preferred method for Ess-a-bagel."
NeutralFrom post: Bagel And Coffee Spots With Minimal Lines Around
"The commenter points out that online pre-ordering is an option at Ess-a-bagel."
NeutralFrom post: Bagel And Coffee Spots With Minimal Lines Around
"Ess-a-bagel can have lines, especially on weekends, but the commenter finds it worth the wait and considers them their favorite bagels."
PositiveFrom post: Bagel And Coffee Spots With Minimal Lines Around
"Ess-a-bagel is praised for its good bagels, variety of cream cheese flavors, sandwich options, and even egg creams. The commenter notes that while there might be a short line at peak times, it moves quickly due to sufficient staff."
Positive