Ess-a-Bagel

Large, crusty bagels with pillowy insides are hallmarks—along with notoriously long lines—at this beloved shop, which launched in 1976 on 21st Street before expanding to Midtown East. Expect 18 varieties of house-made cream cheese, from sweet (blueberry, banana nut, Oreo) to savory (sundried tomato, cheddar, jalapeño), and an entire lunch docket of bagel sandwiches (turkey club, pizza bagel).