EverythingIsEverything

Howard Beach Bagel Cafe - 3.92/4  
  
Store  
A contemporary, straightforward interior aesthetic. Good store layout in response to COVID, chopping the space in half with shelving to create a lane for ordering. Moderate drink selection, many pastry options brought in from outside the store. Spreads displayed with intention alongside many classic deli offerings. Surprisingly slow service relative to the number of staff behind the counter but friendly nonetheless.  
3.75/5  
  
Bagel  
A large bagel with a pale brown shell and small central hole. Served fresh but not hot. Not cut through all the way. Mostly doughy on bite with some tougher chews here and there - in both instances a positive experience. Moderate topping density, two-sided. Standard everything toppings. Not many visible salt crystals but good presence on most bites. If you're here to compare with the bagel up the street, I'd say this is the better, classic option.  
4/5  
  
Cream Cheese  
Served cool. Even coverage and a fair amount. A decently silky whip. Very dairy forward from the first bite, with an immediate, tangy kick. Not much involvement from scallion on texture but good flavor and visual appeal.  
4/5