I live nearby and have gotten many bagels here over 4 years but it’s been getting progressively worse - and after today, I’m done!They’re stingy AF with the cream cheese - barely a smear on the bagels, which feels cheap, especially when their prices are already above what you’ll find at better spots.The staff more often than not is either rude or completely fed up, which makes the experience even less worth it. Sad to say it, but there are plenty of other places that are friendlier, better priced, and actually give you a PROPER cream cheesed up bagel.The only reason this isn’t a 1 is because the bagels themselves are actually tasty.
Jun 1 · Ari TBAKERY PROFILE
Kossar's Bagels & Bialys
★ 3.09 recorded reviews
37 W End Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA
Directory information can change. Confirm current hours, prices, products, dietary needs, and custom-order requirements directly with the bakery.
PLAN THE VISIT
Essential details
- Address
- 37 W End Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA
- Phone
- (212) 767-0285
- Rating signal
- 3.0 from 9 recorded reviews
HOURS
Listed operating hours
- Monday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
About and visit notes
For many New Yorkers, a bagel is more than just a breakfast item; it's a way of life. It’s a staple that defines the city’s culinary landscape, a comforting ritual that signals the start of the day. In a city filled with countless options, finding a bagel shop that truly captures that authentic, old-school flavor can feel like a quest. That’s where a name like Kossar’s Bagels & Bialys stands out. With a history stretching back to 1936, this establishment has become a true New York institution, renowned for its commitment to tradition and quality. While it has expanded over the years to include locations beyond its historic Lower East Side roots, each outpost brings a piece of that storied heritage to a new neighborhood.
Kossar’s is most famously known for its bialys, a unique, chewy bread with a soft center and savory onion or garlic filling. The name is a shortened version of "Bialystoker Kuchen," or "little bread from Bialystok," brought to the city by Jewish immigrants from Poland. This dedication to a specific, time-honored recipe is what has cemented its reputation. Beyond the bialys, the shop’s bagels are hand-rolled and kettle-boiled, a process that creates that perfectly chewy interior and satisfyingly crisp crust that is a hallmark of a genuine New York bagel. Every item is a testament to a heritage of baking excellence that has been passed down through generations.
The menu extends well beyond just the baked goods themselves. A true New York bagel shop is defined by its accoutrements, and Kossar’s delivers with a wide selection of schmears and smoked fish. From classic plain cream cheese to more adventurous flavors like scallion, lox spread, and sun-dried tomato, there is a spread to satisfy every craving. The shop also features a full-fledged deli counter with a variety of smoked fish options, including Eastern Nova salmon, house-cured pastrami Nova, and whitefish salad. These elements combine to create a full-service experience that goes beyond a simple grab-and-go and into the realm of a traditional New York appetizing store. Whether you're in the mood for a quick breakfast or a substantial lunch, Kossar's offers a taste of authentic New York.
The commitment to quality ingredients is a cornerstone of the Kossar’s experience. They utilize high-quality natural wheat flour, fresh eggs, and premium brewer's yeast, with a not-so-secret ingredient: good old New York City tap water. This attention to detail in their process is what loyal customers believe gives their products their distinct flavor and texture. It's a dedication that has earned them praise from various food critics over the years.
Beyond the food, the atmosphere of a place like Kossar’s is what makes it a local gem. It’s a place where you can feel the history, a space that has been part of the city’s fabric for nearly a century. Even in its newer locations, the spirit of the original Lower East Side bakery is present, providing a sense of community and a familiar experience for regulars. It’s a place where patrons, in some cases, are the third generation of customers, continuing a family tradition of enjoying these classic baked goods. This type of generational loyalty speaks volumes about the quality and consistency of the product.
In the ever-changing landscape of New York City, businesses that maintain a strong connection to their roots are especially cherished. Kossar's Bagels & Bialys is one such place. It’s a link to the city's past, a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, well-made food. For those who appreciate the rich history and tradition of New York's Jewish bakeries, a visit to Kossar's is more than a meal; it's an experience. The shop is a place for neighbors to gather, for friends to grab a bite, and for anyone to enjoy a genuine New York bagel or bialy, baked with the same care and tradition since its founding.
Location and Accessibility
Kossar's Bagels & Bialys has expanded its footprint throughout Manhattan, making its classic offerings accessible to more New Yorkers. One of its locations is conveniently situated at 37 West End Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA. This area of Manhattan is well-serviced by public transportation, making it a simple stop for locals. The West Side location is a short walk from several subway stations, including the 59th Street – Columbus Circle station (served by the A, B, C, D, and 1 trains) and the 66th Street – Lincoln Center station (1 train). This ease of access ensures that whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or simply taking a stroll through the neighborhood, a fresh bagel or bialy is never far away. The neighborhood itself is vibrant, with a mix of residential buildings and cultural landmarks, making Kossar's a natural fit for the daily routines of people living and working nearby.
Services Offered
- Hand-rolled bagels and bialys baked fresh daily.
- A wide assortment of cream cheese spreads, including classic, lox, scallion, and vegetable.
- Traditional deli fare such as smoked salmon (Nova), whitefish salad, and other smoked fish options.
- Various breakfast and lunch sandwiches, including egg and cheese, tuna melt, and a variety of deli sandwiches.
- Catering services for platters of bagels, bialys, pastries, and smoked fish for events and offices.
- A selection of other baked goods, including babka, rugelach, and black-and-white cookies.
- Hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, and fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Features / Highlights
- Oldest bialy bakery in the United States, with a history dating back to 1936.
- Use of authentic, traditional recipes that have been passed down for generations.
- Hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels and brick oven-baked bialys for a distinct texture and flavor.
- Recognized by New York Times food critic Mimi Sheraton for having the "very best bialys in the city, and as it turned out, the entire country."
- A menu that honors Jewish culinary traditions while also offering modern options.
- Dedicated to giving back to the local community through support for nonprofits and educational tours.
- A reputation for high-quality, fresh ingredients, including using local New York City tap water.
Contact Information
Address: 37 W End Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA
Phone: (212) 767-0285
Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals
Kossar’s Bagels & Bialys is not just a place to grab a bite to eat; it's an essential part of the New York experience. For locals, it represents a connection to the city's rich history and its vibrant culinary traditions. The shop’s commitment to quality, from the hand-rolled bagels to the authentic bialys and fresh deli offerings, ensures that every visit is a satisfying one. The accessible location on West End Avenue makes it a convenient and reliable spot for daily breakfast or lunch runs. Whether you're a long-time resident who grew up on their bagels or a newcomer looking to discover the true taste of a New York classic, Kossar's offers a genuine and delicious experience. Its dedication to preserving old-world recipes while serving the modern needs of its community makes it an ideal spot for any New Yorker looking for an authentic and delicious meal.
VISIT FEATURES
Services and accessibility
These attributes come from the directory record and should be confirmed when essential.
Service options
- Delivery
- In-store pick-up
- Takeaway
Accessibility
Offerings
- Coffee
Amenities
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
PHOTOS
See the bakery
VISITOR FEEDBACK
Reviews and recurring themes
Read individual comments as personal experiences, not verified guarantees.
cream cheese 2breakfast 2
Stopped for some bagel and to try the bialy. The baked goods are cold and not warmed up for you and they were basically rock hard it was really difficult to finish. Went in at breakfast time and there wasn’t a crowd or a line.
May 25 · Dawn ChristonNot it.A bagel shouldn’t have to be toasted to be good. Clearly bagel wasn’t fresh :( texture felt too dry and chewy- missing the good balance between the crunchy outside and slightly fluffy inside. Wrap was also totally unsalted.
Apr 7 · Abby ReingService was fast and great- the place could be alot bigger. I rated lower due to place Bing small
May 31 · Isaul RendonGREAT classic NY bagels - dense, chewy, and full of flavor!
Mar 14 · D KaoNEARBY ALTERNATIVES
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