TLDR
Historic Lower East Side bakery famous for light, puffy bialys. A traditional staple for bagels and classic Jewish deli treats.
Will Hartman reviews Kossar's, a long-standing Lower East Side institution celebrated for perfecting the bialy and serving a range of traditional Jewish baked goods.
Details
A historic Lower East Side institution serving traditional Jewish baked goods since 1936, this shop is most famous for its light, puffy bialys [2]. While it remains a go-to spot for classic bagels and bialys [1], recent customer sentiment has been largely polarized, with many patrons expressing disappointment over perceived declines in quality and high prices [1], [3]. Others still fondly recall its historical significance and recommend it specifically for those seeking an authentic bialy experience [1].
Food Overview
The shop is celebrated for its signature bialys, which are light, puffy, and pair well with whitefish salad or cream cheese [2]. While the bagels are kettle-boiled and baked on stone for a rich, malty flavor [1], many customers recommend bypassing their bagels in favor of other specialized shops [1]. The black and white cookies are noted for having an excessively thick and sweet icing layer [3].
Caveats
The establishment is no longer kosher-certified, having shifted away from traditional restrictions over a decade ago [1]. Many visitors caution that the pricing for lox bagels can feel excessive compared to the quality and quantity provided [1].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About KOSSAR'S
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Where Would You Take Someone If They Could Only
"Argues it went downhill after changing ovens."
NegativeFrom post: Where Would You Take Someone If They Could Only
"Recommended specifically for amazing bialys."
PositiveFrom post: 20 At Kossars On The Lower East Side Pure Robbery
"Reacts to the price with a humorous comment about the item needing to be organic."
NeutralFrom post: 20 At Kossars On The Lower East Side Pure Robbery
"Humorously reacted to the price, suggesting the item should be organic."
NeutralFrom post: 20 At Kossars On The Lower East Side Pure Robbery
"Recommends the chicken salad with bacon on a sesame bagel (non-kosher) as 'pretty amazing'."
Positive