El Bagel

- 161 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016

In a city where the bagel is a quintessential part of the culinary identity, finding a spot that truly honors the tradition while delivering on quality is a treasure. El Bagel, located on Madison Avenue, is a prime example of a bagel shop that has earned its place as a local staple. While many places may offer a bagel, El Bagel is dedicated to the craft, producing bagels that are consistently large, soft, and fresh. This commitment to quality starts with their process: they mix, shape, hand-roll, and slow-ferment their dough before baking each batch fresh daily. This meticulous approach ensures that every bagel has that perfect, chewy-but-soft texture that New Yorkers crave, distinguishing it from mass-produced alternatives.

But El Bagel is more than just a place to grab a bagel. It's a full-service experience that caters to the diverse tastes of New York's fast-paced residents. The menu extends far beyond the basic bagel and schmear, offering a variety of creative and classic sandwiches. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Bacon, Egg, and Cheese (BEC), or a more elaborate creation like the "Lox Supreme" with locally-smoked salmon, every option is made with high-quality ingredients. The care they put into their food is evident in the positive reviews from long-time patrons who praise not only the bagels but also the sandwiches, coffee, and friendly service. It’s a bright, clean, and inviting space where the staff's genuine smiles and efficient service make every visit a pleasant one.

For New Yorkers on the go, El Bagel provides a reliable and delicious option for breakfast or lunch. Its focus on traditional methods, fresh ingredients, and a wide-ranging menu makes it a standout choice. It’s a place that understands the importance of a good bagel in the city's daily rhythm and delivers on that promise consistently. From a quick coffee refill to a hearty lox sandwich, El Bagel has solidified its reputation as a go-to spot for those who appreciate a truly great bagel.

## Location and Accessibility

El Bagel is situated at 161 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016, placing it in a prime location in Midtown Manhattan. Its spot on Madison Avenue makes it an ideal stop for those working in the area, as well as for residents and visitors exploring the city. The central location provides easy access via a variety of public transportation options, including multiple subway lines and bus routes. The proximity to office buildings and residential areas ensures a steady flow of both regular customers and new faces seeking a taste of authentic New York bagels.

For those arriving by car, paid street parking is available in the vicinity, though it can be competitive during busy hours, as is typical for Midtown. The convenience of its location is complemented by its service options. El Bagel understands the New York lifestyle and offers both takeout and delivery, making it easy to get your bagel fix whether you're heading to work, grabbing a quick meal, or enjoying a lazy morning at home. The seamless ordering process, whether in-person or online, ensures that you get your food quickly and efficiently, a key feature for a fast-paced city like New York.

## Services Offered

• Takeout for convenient, on-the-go orders
• Delivery for those who prefer to enjoy their food at home or at the office
• Online ordering for same-day pickup or delivery
• Catering services for parties, meetings, and special events

## Features / Highlights

• Authentic Hand-Rolled Bagels: El Bagel is known for its traditional bagel-making process. The bagels are mixed, shaped, hand-rolled, and slow-fermented, resulting in a soft, chewy interior and a firm, flavorful crust. This authentic method sets their bagels apart and has earned them a loyal following.
• Wide Variety of Bagels and Spreads: The menu includes a diverse selection of bagels, from classic plain and everything to unique flavors like sun-dried tomato and jalapeno cheddar. They also offer a range of house-made cream cheeses, including scallion, roasted veggie, and even vegan options, ensuring there’s something for every preference.
• Delicious and Creative Sandwiches: Beyond the basic bagel and cream cheese, El Bagel excels at crafting breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Popular choices include the classic Lox Supreme, the EB Original with thick-cut bacon, scallion cream cheese, and roasted jalapeños, and the Tuna Melt. These sandwiches are known for their generous portions and fresh ingredients.
• High-Quality Coffee and Beverages: The shop also features a great coffee program, with excellent drip coffee and specialty drinks like iced lattes and chai tea. Many customers praise the coffee as a perfect complement to their bagels, with some even mentioning free refills.
• Friendly and Fast Service: A standout feature highlighted in customer reviews is the outstanding service. The staff is consistently described as friendly, efficient, and quick, making the ordering and pickup process smooth and enjoyable, even during busy periods.

## Contact Information

Address: 161 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016

Phone: (212) 679-6790

## What is Worth Choosing

For anyone in New York City seeking a truly exceptional bagel experience, El Bagel is a must-try. The most compelling reason to choose this shop is the quality of its bagels. They are a testament to the fact that the secret to a great New York bagel lies not just in the water, but in the time-honored techniques of hand-rolling, slow-fermenting, and daily baking. The result is a product that is consistently fresh, soft, and delicious—a far cry from the factory-made bagels you might find elsewhere. This dedication to craft is what gives El Bagel a significant edge in a city full of competition.

Beyond the quality of the bagels themselves, the variety and creativity of the menu are major draws. Whether you're craving a simple toasted bagel with butter or a fully-loaded sandwich, El Bagel offers a wide array of choices to satisfy any palate. Their specialty sandwiches, in particular, showcase their ability to combine fresh ingredients in a way that is both innovative and comforting. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for any time of day, whether you’re rushing for a morning bite or looking for a satisfying lunch.

Finally, the overall experience at El Bagel is worth choosing. The combination of its convenient Midtown location, fast and friendly service, and commitment to quality makes it a highly reliable and enjoyable spot. The fact that it's a local favorite, with many customers returning for years, speaks volumes about its consistency and appeal. For a taste of what a true New York bagel should be, fresh and made with care, El Bagel is a top contender that delivers on every promise.

El Bagel

161 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA