I recently visited one of the most talked about bagel shops in NYC, Apollo Bagels. In a city where bagels are practically an experience, Apollo Bagels takes you on a full flavored journey. Are these the best bagels in New York City? Let’s dig into this Apollo Bagels review and find out.
Table of Contents
Ambience
From across the street, I spotted the notable red signage Apollo Bagels as well as a long line of foodie tourists, regulars, and hype followers snapping photos of one of the most hyped bagel shops around. Inside, Apollo Bagels keeps things minimal. The space is small with no indoor seating, so don’t be surprised to see people eating their bagels right outside the storefront for me it’s part of the experience. A stripped down menu board, a fresh orange juice machine humming with sky high stacks of oranges piled add just the right touch of charm.
What I Ordered at Apollo Bagels
Known for their hand spun, boiled bagels made fresh every morning, Apollo Bagels sets the bar high and I was ready to taste the crisp crunch of their well balanced everything bagel. The Apollo Bagels wait time isn’t too bad, depending on when you go. Late morning weekdays tend to move faster, but honestly, the wait is always worth it. Especially when you have a spot close by to enjoy your order.
The Apollo Bagels Lox on an everything bagel is hands down my go-to order. The bagel has that special crispiness, and the salty, buttery richness of the lox is enough to make me smile every time. Topped with capers, red onion, and dill which hits the right balance of tangy, savory, and fresh. Honestly, it might be the best bagel I’ve ever had and I will keep ordering it every time I come back.
The Apollo Bagels Whitefish bagel comes in as a close second to the lox. The whitefish itself is fresh, creamy, and subtly smoky, exactly what you’d hope for. Paired with crisp cucumber slices and a touch of dill, it delivers a beautifully balanced, savory flavor that’s hard to forget.
Where to Eat
Once your name is called and bagel in hand, you might wonder: where do I actually eat this? Inside, there are two small standing counters near the window which can fit about two people each, and if it’s not too crowded, they’re a solid option (I’ve eaten there before). Most people tend to head outside and eat on the curb or nearby ledges, which adds to the NYC charm. But if you’re like me and want to truly savor that $15 bagel in peace, I’ve found a better option: Matcha House.
Located right across the street on the same block. It’s a quiet, aesthetically pleasing café with great drinks and a calm vibe. You can check out their menu here.
The Takeaway
Apollo Bagels exceeded my expectations and it’s 100% worth the hype. Even though it’s a bit out of the way for me, I’ll still make the trip for that unforgettable lox and whitefish bagel. In my humble opinion, Apollo deserves to be ranked among the very best bagels in NYC, if not the best. With six locations and counting, it’s clear this shop is only getting bigger. I highly recommend you try it for yourself and see what the buzz is all about.
Must-Go rating 4.8 out 5 ⭐
Looking for more things to do in Manhattan? Be sure to checkout our reviews of Bar Orai in Midtown and Coqodaq which is not too far from Apollo Bagels.
@theblot.org Bagel lovers, add Apollo Bagels to your must-visit list 🥯✨ One of the top places to go NYC for fresh bagels! Food reviews NYC — crispy outside, chewy inside, and packed with flavor. Don’t miss this bagel gem in the city! #apollobagels #bagel #nycbagels #nycfood #foodtok ♬ Toms diner 1987 and 1990 – 2000s90sMusicLover
