Ess-A-Bagel Reviews: The Real Deal On Nycs Best Bagels

Ess-a-Bagel is a New York City institution, with a legacy that spans over four decades. This family-owned business has been a staple in the Big Apple's bagel scene, with a loyal following of customers who swear by their hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, and brick oven-baked bagels. But what makes Ess-a-Bagel truly special? In this comprehensive review, we'll dive into the world of Ess-a-Bagel, exploring their history, menu offerings, and what sets them apart from the competition.

History of Ess-a-Bagel

Ess-a-Bagel was founded in 1976 by Gene and Joan Herman, two passionate bakers who sought to bring the traditional bagel-making techniques of Eastern Europe to New York City. The Hermans perfected their recipe, using only the finest ingredients and time-honored methods to create a truly authentic bagel experience. Over the years, Ess-a-Bagel has expanded to multiple locations throughout the city, but their commitment to quality and tradition remains unchanged.

The Art of Bagel-Making

So, what sets Ess-a-Bagel apart from other bagel shops? For starters, their bagels are made using a time-consuming, labor-intensive process that involves hand-rolling, kettle-boiling, and brick oven-baking. This traditional method gives their bagels a unique texture and flavor that's hard to replicate. The dough is first hand-rolled into perfect circles, then kettle-boiled in water to give the bagel its signature crust. Finally, the bagels are baked in a brick oven, imparting a crispy, caramelized exterior that's simply divine.

Menu Offerings

Ess-a-Bagel's menu is a bagel lover's paradise, with a wide variety of flavors and toppings to suit every taste. From classic favorites like sesame, poppy, and salt to more adventurous options like whole wheat everything and cinnamon raisin, there's something for everyone. They also offer a range of cream cheeses, from scallion to lox, to complement their bagels perfectly.

Top Recommendations

So, what are the must-try items at Ess-a-Bagel? Here are a few of our top recommendations:

• Everything Bagel with Scallion Cream Cheese: A classic combination that's sure to please, with a perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors.
• Cinnamon Raisin Bagel with Lox Cream Cheese: A sweet and savory twist on the classic bagel, with the added richness of smoked salmon.
• Whole Wheat Everything Bagel with Avocado: A healthier take on the traditional bagel, with the added creaminess of ripe avocado.

Awards and Accolades

Ess-a-Bagel has received widespread critical acclaim, with numerous awards and accolades to their name. Some notable mentions include:

• Best Bagel in NYC by The New York Times
• Top 10 Bagels in the Country by USA Today
• Best Bagel Shop in Manhattan by Time Out New York

What the Critics Say

But don't just take our word for it – here's what some of the city's top critics have to say about Ess-a-Bagel:

• "Ess-a-Bagel is the real deal, a true New York City institution." – The New York Times
• "Their bagels are hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, and brick oven-baked to perfection." – USA Today
• "Ess-a-Bagel is a must-visit destination for any bagel lover." – Time Out New York

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ess-a-Bagel is a true New York City institution, with a legacy that spans over four decades. Their commitment to quality, tradition, and customer satisfaction has earned them a loyal following of customers who swear by their hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, and brick oven-baked bagels. Whether you're a native New Yorker or just visiting the city, Ess-a-Bagel is a must-visit destination for any bagel lover.