Iconic NYC bagel spot known for its massive, chewy bagels and a dizzying array of cream cheese options. A must-try, though some say it's overhyped.
Ess-a-Bagel is a long-standing New York institution, celebrated for its generously sized bagels that boast a satisfyingly chewy interior and a crisp crust. Patrons rave about the extensive selection of house-made cream cheese flavors, making it a go-to spot for a classic New York breakfast or lunch. Despite the frequent long lines, many believe the quality and variety offered make the wait worthwhile, solidifying its reputation as a must-try bagel destination.
Ess-a-Bagel is renowned for its large, chewy bagels with a crispy exterior and soft interior, often served with a wide variety of cream cheese flavors. While many customers highly recommend them, some feel the bagels are mid-tier or even subpar, with one user specifically noting a bagel that was as hard as a hockey puck. The lox spread bagel and vegan options have received positive mentions.
"The Lox Spread Bagel and cream cheese sandwiches are highlighted positively. Vegan bagels with savory cream cheese are also recommended."
Customers have mixed feelings about Ess-a-Bagel. While many praise the large, chewy bagels and extensive cream cheese options, some find them overrated and not worth the wait. A few also noted specific dishes like the lox spread bagel and vegan options positively, while others mentioned issues like saltiness or the bagel's texture.
Important Note
Some customers find the bagels to be overrated or not worth the wait, with one user specifically mentioning a bagel that was as hard as a hockey puck. Another noted their lox was salty. There's also a mention of a charge for toasting bagels at one location.
"This user agreed with the previous comment, adding that bagel sandwiches are a fairly modern invention and noted that bacon on a bagel is common."
Neutral"The user pointed out that for bagel sandwiches, one typically needs to request dressing like mayo or mustard, unless it was explicitly forgotten."
Neutral"Essa Bagel is listed as a place to consider for cheap eats in NYC."
Positive"A commenter recommends the Ess-a-Bagel on 50th street, stating that the other location is not good."
Positive"This user suggested Ess-a-Bagel as a place to get chicken salad, implying it is a good source for this item."
Positive"The original poster notes that Ess-a-Bagel is conveniently located within an 8-minute walk from their hotel, making it a viable option."
Neutral"The commenter recommends Ess-a-Bagel as a reliable choice for breakfast."
Positive"The commenter states that Ess-a-bagel is their favorite."
Positive"A user noted that while some people claimed Essa Bagel might have chocolate chip bagels, they could not verify this through online ordering options."
Neutral"A Redditor explicitly stated that Ess-a Bagel is not good and advised against it."
Negative"A Redditor recommended Ess-a Bagel as a bagel option if eating near Battery Park."
Neutral"A Redditor provided an update that Ess-a Bagel recently opened a new location on Broadway near Trinity Church."
Neutral"A Redditor mentioned Ess-a Bagel as a recommendation for bagels."
Neutral"A user recommends Ess-a-Bagel, noting its location in the 50s."
Positive"This user also recommends Ess-a-Bagel, mentioning a location on 1st Ave."
Positive"This user strongly dislikes Ess-a-Bagel, criticizing their soft, bland bagels that lack the typical NYC bagel crunch, and suggests trying other bagel places instead."
Negative"Despite not being a fish fan or initially excited for a NY bagel, the Lox Spread Bagel was simple and good, with the comical amount of spread working well."
Positive"A user notes that Ess-a-Bagel appears to be a popular choice for bagels."
Neutral"Ess a Bagel is listed as a favorite place to get bagels, which are noted to travel well."
Positive"Selected Ess-A-Bagel from the original poster's list."
Positive