9 Comments

I have this theory - that I made after going to Russ and Daughters and being convinced the city was gaslighting me - that any business that is heavily associated with a cool city - like NYC - is always going to be overrated because it can coast on the city’s reputation. The best food places are from, like, Cleveland because if you’re from Cleveland, your food better be good.

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I think there's merit to that. The key is when they get so big that becoming a "brand" is more important than being a really good restaurant. That's when quality always goes downhill.

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My dude. While en route on my cross country journey moving from the east coast to Seattle - one of the most surprising epiphanies was Cleveland. I called it something like the "culinary capital' of the US. Nobody believed me. You show up in Seattle gushing about Cleveland and you lose people real quick. I ate at 3 places there and they were all phenomenal. Soft spot in my heart for that place.

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This is me with St. Louis!

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Just tried R and D (Hudson Yards location) for first time - this NE Jew is in full agreement with your review - bagels are nothing special. As another commenter said, Liberty bagels are better - although avoid the midtown location which literally has a bouncer outside to manage the lines to get into the store (their bagels are good but not worth a 30-45 min wait for an online order you put in the day before) - just saying folks

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It’s amazing how long people will wait in line for okay bagels these days. But I guess I better add them to my list next time I’m in town!

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Speaking truth to yeasty power! Fun read, thanks Sean.

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Thank you!

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Thanks for the NYC bagel reviews. Next time you’re there, give a try to Liberty Bagels near the WTC. I was impressed with the chew and the scallion cream cheese, plus they have pumpernickel everything bagels!!

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