A Bagel at Terrace Bagels

Terrace Bagels easily makes the best bagels in the neighborhood.

Though I know I run the risk of starting a small war with such a declaration, at least in my opinion, it’s absolutely true.

To be fair, I will disclose my two bagel biases up front: first off, located on Prospect Park West between 16th and Windsor Place, Terrace Bagels a mere two blocks from my apartment, making it an inherently attractive option. That, and I have a soft spot for a super salty everything bagel, an area where  most certainly excels.

But convenience and saltiness aside, this longtime neighborhood staple consistently churns out what I think of as the ideal bagel – hand-rolled and boiled then baked with a chewy exterior and soft, doughy interior.

If you opt for flavors you can’t go wrong (though sesame and everything are my favorites). If you’re a plain bagel lover, well those are good, too. And just recently I discovered the “flagel” – while a little unorthodox, the "flagel" or flat bagel is the perfect companion to bagel toppings more substantial cream cheese.

Often in the mornings, I’m even lucky enough to score bagels so fresh that they’re still warm from the oven.

Of course, Terrace Bagels is also not without its shortcomings. I always take my bagels home where I slice them, toast them and cream cheese them myself – pay the extra dollar or so to have Terrace Bagels perform the task and it is likely that you’ll end up with an over-toasted bagel slathered in an insurmountable mass of cream cheese (like pretty much any other bagel shop in town).

The service is often just a tad too brisk and on weekend mornings, the chaotic lines often stretch almost all the way out the door.

But even when the line is long, it moves quickly. And while you’re waiting, you can always dream about the tasty bagel you’re about to eat.