Store: A contemporary store in the aged wood and Edison bulb fashion. Modern pop music plays on internet radio. Nice custom bagel hoppers, a wide variety of pastries including cake, and a moderate drink selection of interesting varieties. Gluten-free bagel options available. Unfortunately the service side of things holds the score back from being in the upper tier. Long wait times resulted in multiple frustrated customers pacing the open floor plan and demanding the status of their order. The strict division of labor between cashier and prep staff seemed to their undoing here. 4

Bagel: A large, tall bagel with tearing and fissures on the initial bite and a tough chew resolution. In this instance, the toughness suggests a late day bagel rather than a targeted expression. Still good fundamentals, including dual-sided toppings at moderate-to-high density and a corresponding high salt ratio. 3.75

Cream Cheese: Served cool. A dairy forward spread that never ventures into over ripeness. Some scallion texture at play. Even coverage and adequate quantity. 3.75