Store: A decently sized store for Manhattan standards with good seating available. Reviews and other New York ephemera decorate the walls. Pop music from "the 80's, 90's and today" plays overhead. A lovely lox and spread display, with cream cheese names and prices on plaques inserted directly into the product. Small drink selection but an impressively large and attractive pastry offering. The exterior of the building is vintage NYC: neon signage and bold lettering overhead. A classic spot through and through. 4.25

Bagel: A medium-large bagel, served fresh but not hot. Evenly tanned and slightly bulbous with a moderate central hole. Light to moderate topping coverage double-sided and standard composition. Salt makes no major plays in the flavor but is present. With the topping distribution as is, the bagel itself gets a chance to shine through and comports itself well, communicating softness first and foremost. 4

Cream Cheese: Served deli case cool at moderate amount and slightly messy application. A very dairy forward spread, verging on overcheese but not crossing the line. A moderately sized scallion chunk worked in to the spread at equally moderate measure. A nice spread for those that like some tang to their cream cheese. 3.75