The iconic craggy, slightly sweet bagels are back, possibly indistinguishable from the original. Still a top-tier bagel experience, even with a modern refresh.
The original Absolute Bagels has found a new home, and the consensus is that it's just as good as ever. Reviewers note that despite a modern refresh, the core of what made the original so beloved remains intact, including the signature craggy, slightly sweet bagels. While some found the new bagels to be smaller and puffier, and perhaps a bit chewier with less crunch, others maintain they are indistinguishable from the original. Overall, the sentiment is that this beloved establishment continues to deliver a top-tier bagel experience.
The bagels at this establishment are the main draw, with customers noting they are craggy, slightly sweet, and have a good chew. Some feedback suggests the new bagels are smaller and puffier, with a texture that might be chewier and less crunchy than the original, though this is debated. Despite minor variations, the overall food quality is highly regarded.
"The 'ultimate everything bagel' has been specifically recommended. Customers generally find the classic bagels to be of high quality."
Customers generally feel the new iteration of this popular bagel spot lives up to the legacy of the original, with many finding the taste and quality to be consistent.
Important Note
Some customers have noted that the new bagels may be smaller and puffier, making them difficult to toast, and some have experienced less crunch and insufficient topping coverage.
"The commenter, who has visited since the ownership change, states they can't tell the difference and it's still good."
Positive"The user asks if Absolute Bagels is still worth visiting after a change in ownership."
Neutral"The commenter suggests Absolute Bagels for a lox and bagel if the food tour is going uptown."
Positive"Intrigued by the recommendation for an 'everything bagel', the user expresses a desire to try Absolute Bagels."
Positive"Absolute Bagels is recommended for its 'ultimate everything bagel', priced at $3.65."
Positive"This commenter stated that the old Absolute Bagels were good initially but became mediocre, and the new place appears almost identical, just cleaner."
Neutral"This commenter tried the new Absolute Bagels and found them to be mediocre."
Negative"This commenter expresses a preference for chewier bagels."
Positive"This commenter believes that chewiness is an essential attribute for a bagel."
Positive"This commenter noted that the new bagels are smaller and puffier, making them difficult to fit into a toaster even after halving. However, they felt the taste was still about 80% the same as the original."
Neutral"This commenter, who also lives near the new establishment, disagrees with the original poster's assessment. They believe New Absolute Bagels taste just like the original and that closing your eyes would make it indistinguishable."
Positive"Responding to a comment about the bagels being on par, this commenter stated that while they are still good, the texture is off and topping coverage was insufficient on all bagels in their dozen."
Negative"In response to a comment about the charm of the old Absolute Bagels, this user simply stated that the old place did have a certain charm."
Neutral"This commenter mentioned hearing from others that the new bagels are on par with the former Absolute Bagels."
Neutral"This commenter questions whether the old, reportedly dirty establishment with old equipment and decor had more charm than the new, modernized space."
Neutral"The original poster felt underwhelmed by the new Absolute Bagels, noting they are chewier with less crunch compared to the original. They suspect the new owners and equipment may still be finding their stride."
Negative"The new Absolute Bagel location in the UWS, which maintains the recipe of the previous popular spot, is recommended."
Positive"This commenter humorously suggested that it might be a good day to get a discount on bagels, possibly referencing the date."
Neutral