In a move that has garnered attention from both bagel enthusiasts and the local dining scene, Apollo Bagels, the trendy Manhattan establishment, has officially opened its doors in Hoboken, New Jersey.
The arrival of Apollo Bagels has invoked mixed feelings among New Jersey die-hards, particularly given the state’s reputation for having superior bagels compared to its New York counterpart.
Originating from the popular Williamsburg pizzeria Leo, Apollo Bagels made waves in New York when it debuted with a concept that diverges significantly from traditional bagel shops.
Notoriously known for its aesthetic presentations and small menu, the bagel shop has quickly accrued a loyal following across several locations in New York City, including the East Village, West Village, Financial District, and Williamsburg.
Upon its recent launch in Hoboken, anticipation built for those eager to try what many claim are life-altering bagels. As the writer prepared for the journey, a sense of skepticism lingered; could this New York import truly stand up to New Jersey’s legendary bagel scene?
Arriving at the Hoboken location early on a Thursday morning, I was pleasantly surprised to find almost no line and a wait time of just over ten minutes.
However, it is worth noting that weekend visits may entail longer lines.
Apollo Bagels is distinct in its offering, featuring just three varieties: plain, sesame, and everything.
In a departure from typical bagel offerings, the shop does not serve egg sandwiches or the beloved Taylor ham typical in many local establishments.
Instead, Apollo showcases meticulously crafted open-faced sandwiches, emphasizing ingredients like smoked salmon and whitefish salad, setting it apart from the standard fare found in traditional bagel shops.
Despite initial reservations regarding the artisanal approach to bagels, the first bite of an everything bagel topped with cream cheese revealed a delightful experience.
These naturally fermented bagels, characterized by their crispy exterior and bubbly texture, deliver a crunch and savoriness that is rarely encountered in New Jersey’s bagel offerings.
Expecting a default toast on the bagel may contradict traditional bagel ethics, but at Apollo, this method successfully enhances the experience, producing an audible crunch and distinctive sourdough note that is hard to resist.
Also noteworthy is the sesame bagel, adorned with smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, red onion, and dill.
While this decadent sandwich is priced at $15, the quality justifies the cost.
Many local bagel shops tend to overload their lox sandwiches, making consumption a challenging task.
However, Apollo’s open-faced arrangement provides an effective and satisfying serving method, ensuring the freshness of the lox and the right ratio of cream cheese on a sturdy, crisp bagel base.
Despite personal biases, there is an undeniable quality in what Apollo Bagels delivers.
Although it may not be for everyone—especially given the long waits and the minimalist menu—it represents a culinary innovation that successfully combines modern flair with traditional elements.
A place that thrives on a limited menu often indicates a deep understanding of their craft, and Apollo Bagels exemplifies this principle.
While this version of bagel may not be what one would choose for an everyday breakfast, the option to indulge occasionally and experience something fresh is appreciated.
New Jersey may still hold the title for better traditional bagels, but with Apollo Bagels now part of the state’s vibrant food scene, it undoubtedly ranks among the finest bagel establishments in New Jersey.
image source from：nj
