TLDR
Modern sourdough-based bagels with fresh, elevated toppings. A polarizing, high-quality take on the classic New York staple.
Details
Known for its modern, sourdough-based approach to the iconic New York staple, this establishment has ignited a passionate debate among locals. While many diners celebrate the perfect balance of ingredients and high-quality additions like fresh tomatoes [1], others contend that the texture and style stray too far from traditional expectations [2]. Despite the controversy regarding its authenticity, it remains a highly popular destination for those seeking a fresh, elevated take on the classic bagel sandwich [3].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on sourdough bagels praised for their complex flavor and fresh preparation [1], with the tomato bagel being a standout favorite among fans [1]. Critics, however, frequently cite disappointment with the texture being too tough or chewy, and often remark that the cream cheese application is too light [2].
Caveats
Some customers find the bagel texture to be excessively tough or 'like leather' [1], and the open-faced presentation is a point of contention for those expecting a more traditional, generously schmear-heavy experience [2].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About APOLLO BAGELS
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Best Bagel And Lox I Had So Far Apollo Bagels In
"The user criticizes the establishment, claiming they are not authentic bagels and only popular due to hype."
NegativeFrom post: Best Bagel And Lox I Had So Far Apollo Bagels In
"The user disagrees with the popularity of this establishment."
NegativeFrom post: Best Bagel And Lox I Had So Far Apollo Bagels In
"Describes the bagel as the platonic ideal, noting that the sourdough base is easier on the stomach and the ingredient ratio is perfect."
PositiveFrom post: Best Bagel And Lox I Had So Far Apollo Bagels In
"The user was disappointed in the texture, specifically finding them too chewy compared to their usual go-to."
NegativeFrom post: Best Bagel And Lox I Had So Far Apollo Bagels In
"The user enjoys the restaurant, specifically highlighting the high quality of their tomatoes."
PositiveFrom post: Best Bagel And Lox I Had So Far Apollo Bagels In
"The user considers the restaurant to be excellent and superior to traditional options."
PositiveFrom post: Best Bagel And Lox I Had So Far Apollo Bagels In
"The user found this to be the best bagel and lox they have had in NYC, praising the freshness and the temperature/texture of the lox."
PositiveFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user pointed out that Long Island and Westchester are in NY and also have bagels."
NeutralFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user maintained that there was not one specific 'traditional' way bagels were made even historically."
NeutralFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user conceded the point about evolution and reiterated that 'traditional' was a better term than 'real'."
NeutralFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user countered that there wasn't a single 'traditional' way bagels were made even in the past, and they have evolved over time."
NeutralFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user clarified that 'real bagel' meant traditional, not to dismiss other styles, and acknowledged the importance of tradition."
NeutralFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user confirmed Courage Bagels cost $15 (as of summer) and maintained they are in a different league than Apollo."
NegativeFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user inquired about the price of Courage Bagels."
NeutralFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user acknowledged the West Village location mentioned."
NeutralFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user provided the address for the West Village/Soho area location of Apollo Bagels."
NeutralFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user explained that due to the sourdough nature of the bagel, a thin amount of cream cheese presses into the holes, making it seem like more."
NeutralFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user prefers Apollo's style over traditional NY bagels, finding them easier to eat with a better ingredient balance, and less messy than typical NY bagels."
PositiveFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user described the bagel as 'Fugazi with a schmear'."
NegativeFrom post: My Williamsburg Obsession The Apollo Bagels In
"This user asked if there was anything similar to Apollo Bagels in Midtown."
Neutral