A buzzy Brooklyn bagel spot with a cult following for its unique sourdough creations, esp. the much-raved-about tomato bagel. Debated for its non-traditional take, but beloved by many.
Apollo Bagels is a popular bagel shop in Brooklyn, often debated for its non-traditional approach. While some appreciate its sourdough-based bagels for being lighter, doughier, and more flavorful than typical New York bagels, others find them too tough or prefer a more classic preparation. The tomato bagel, in particular, garners significant praise, with many calling it a must-try.
Apollo Bagels offers a sourdough-based bagel that some find to be larger, lighter, and more flavorful than traditional New York bagels. The tomato bagel is frequently highlighted as a must-try, with many customers praising its unique taste. However, some customers find the bagels too tough or not authentic enough, with critiques of cream cheese and topping amounts varying widely.
"The tomato bagel is frequently recommended and praised as a standout item. Some also enjoy the lox options, though opinions on topping proportions vary."
Customer sentiment is highly divided, with strong opinions both for and against its non-traditional bagel style. Many praise its unique flavors and textures, while others criticize it for not being a classic New York bagel.
Important Note
Some customers find the bagels to be too tough or not aligned with traditional New York bagel standards. There are also debates about the amount of cream cheese and toppings, with some feeling it's insufficient.
"This user pointed out that Long Island and Westchester are in NY and also have bagels."
Neutral"This user maintained that there was not one specific 'traditional' way bagels were made even historically."
Neutral"This user conceded the point about evolution and reiterated that 'traditional' was a better term than 'real'."
Neutral"This user countered that there wasn't a single 'traditional' way bagels were made even in the past, and they have evolved over time."
Neutral"This user clarified that 'real bagel' meant traditional, not to dismiss other styles, and acknowledged the importance of tradition."
Neutral"This user confirmed Courage Bagels cost $15 (as of summer) and maintained they are in a different league than Apollo."
Negative"This user inquired about the price of Courage Bagels."
Neutral"This user acknowledged the West Village location mentioned."
Neutral"This user provided the address for the West Village/Soho area location of Apollo Bagels."
Neutral"This user explained that due to the sourdough nature of the bagel, a thin amount of cream cheese presses into the holes, making it seem like more."
Neutral"This user prefers Apollo's style over traditional NY bagels, finding them easier to eat with a better ingredient balance, and less messy than typical NY bagels."
Positive"This user described the bagel as 'Fugazi with a schmear'."
Negative"This user asked if there was anything similar to Apollo Bagels in Midtown."
Neutral"This user confirmed having a similar negative experience with the bagel's texture."
Negative"This user found Apollo's bagels incredibly tough and stated they wouldn't return."
Negative"This user argued that the definition of a 'real' bagel varies by region (Montreal, Toronto, NY) and criticized the idea that only one style is authentic, stating that Apollo and Popup bagels are as real as any other."
Neutral"This user confirmed Apollo Bagels was started by Leo's chefs during COVID as a popup, and can now be obtained at Leo's, with the breakfast sandwich available from the slice shop."
Neutral"This user asked for clarification if the discussion was about Leo the restaurant."
Neutral"This user agreed with the previous comment regarding non-traditional bagels, stating that even if it's not a 'real' bagel, Popup Bagels are still enjoyable."
Positive"This user reacted with 'Wtf is that mess?' to a picture of an Apollo bagel."
Negative
