Bagel Express III
Kips Bay, Manhattan
Total Score
Ranks & Awards
Store: A long, rectangular store with a snaking service line. Up against the back wall is a large poster of the new World Trade Center. Music faintly plays but it's hard to hear over kitchen prep noises. Somewhat slow service but the staff is clearly working hard. Awesome branded store shirts. Standard drink selection, smallish pastry selection. Very utilitarian spread display. Had to come back a second time to get an everything bagel, as they were all out just after noon on a Saturday. 3.75
Bagel: Large bagel, fresh but not hot, with pleasing, bulbous irregularities to the shape. Chewier than I might expect from a new bagel; ultimately a wash for review purposes. The real story here is the excellent salt ratio. Strong crystal presence on either side of the shell and apparent on every bite. Toppings also include sunflower and oat, a rare breed. 4.25
Cream Cheese: Served room temperature. A smooth constitution evenly applied, on the thinner side amount-wise. Scallions don't play much visually or in the texture but support the flavor well. No dairy ripeness at play. Hits all the notes of a quality bagel store spread. 4