TLDR
Classic hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels in the UWS. Now updated with credit card acceptance while keeping the legendary, chewier, crisp-crust recipe.
The Upper West Side institution returns to its original location with the same beloved recipes and a few modern updates.
Details
Following a closure in 2024, this legendary Upper West Side bagel institution has reopened under new ownership [1], [2]. While the space has been updated and now conveniently accepts credit cards, the core method of producing hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, and oven-baked bagels remains unchanged [3], [4]. Most patrons find the quality of the new iteration to be consistent with the original's celebrated recipes [5], [6].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on traditional NYC Jewish deli-style bagels, which are described as being smaller and denser than others, yet featuring a desirable craggy texture and crisp crust [5], [10]. Customers particularly recommend the 'ultimate everything bagel' and the classic lox and schmear, often pairing their orders with coffee from nearby shops [11], [12], [13].
Sentiment is generally positive, with many visitors considering the post-reopening bagels indistinguishable from the original [5], [7]. While some reviewers noted minor inconsistencies in texture or crunch during the transition, the establishment remains highly recommended as one of the best in Manhattan [6], [8], [9].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About 2788 BAGELS
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Two Brazilians Eating Their Way Through Nyc Part 1
"Highly recommended by multiple users as the best bagel spot, despite a controversy regarding past health inspections."
PositiveFrom post: Solo Dining Recommendations In Upper West Side
"Mentioned that it went through a closure due to health code violations but is popular enough to have reopened under new ownership."
PositiveFrom post: Best Bagel And Lox I Had So Far Apollo Bagels In
"A brief, highly positive recommendation of the establishment."
PositiveFrom post: Nyc Bagel Shops With Great Coffee Please Help Ive
"The user suggested Absolute Bagels, which has reopened, as a good bagel option that pairs well with Ploughshares Coffee located on the next block."
PositiveFrom post: Best Bagel Or Slice Near Saint John The Divine
"New Absolute is suggested for a true NY experience with lox and schmear on a bagel."
Positive