TLDR
Legendary bialys and stone-baked bagels on the LES. Though famous for history, recent visitors often find them overpriced and lacking the charm of yesteryear.
Details
A historic Lower East Side institution, this bakery is renowned for its traditional bialys and specialized bagels, which are kettle-boiled and baked on stone for a signature malt-syrup sweetness [1]. However, recent sentiment has shifted sharply, with many patrons lamenting that the shop has lost its authentic, kosher roots in favor of commercialization [2]. Modern visitors frequently express frustration over high prices and what they perceive as disappointing portion sizes for lox bagels [3].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on traditional Jewish bakery staples, specifically bialys and kettle-boiled bagels [1]. While some customers still highly recommend the bialys [4], others advise avoiding their bagels or lox sandwiches, suggesting superior quality can be found at alternative spots like Russ & Daughters or Apollo Bagels [3].
Customer Sentiment
Customer feedback is largely negative, with many diners expressing deep dissatisfaction regarding the high price points and declining quality [3]. While some long-time patrons maintain a nostalgic appreciation for the bialys, many feel the establishment has shifted toward a generic, commercialized experience [2].
Caveats
The establishment is no longer kosher, a shift that occurred over a decade ago when the business transitioned to operating on Saturdays and serving hot food [2].
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