Dining Out in New York City - H&H Midtown Bagels East

Whole Wheat Everything Bagel with Tofutti Scallion Cream Cheese
H&H Midtown Bagels East

The Array of Bagels - All Vegan (Except for Egg)
H&H Midtown Bagels East

I have a love-hate relationship with bagels. They have become the all too common and too readily available breakfast food in the office. People usually get excited for bagel mornings, but I'm always conflicted. To me they are a useless food - high in calories, carbohydrates, sodium, sometimes sugar, and relatively low in fiber and other nutrients. They rarely fill me up to the point that it's a satisfying meal, but they are tasty, especially smothered in a creamy spread or peanut butter.

As abundant and delicious as they are in New York City, it's a danger zone. I knew I had to try a few to see what all the fuss was about. Based on reviews online I gave H&H a shot and it lives up to the hype. I've since brought my boyfriend, friends and family there, who have all enjoyed them with the traditional dairy cream cheese and lox toppings. It's common to see a long line here, always a good sign, but no less annoying. Thankfully it moves fast. They have multiple cashiers and men working to fix you your bagel one after another. You can even order online for catering and ship them nationwide. In addition to bagels the store sells some prepared side dishes and baked goods, none of which are vegan unfortunately. 

For vegan options, all bagels are vegan-friendly except for egg. I've even tried the mini bagel for fewer calories, but they didn't have any wheat options sadly, so I had the mini Sesame - still great! The cream cheese alternatives are Tofutti Plain, Scallion, and Vegetable, and peanut butter. As bagels can be bland (especially plain with plain cream cheese!), a more flavorful and savory combo that I like to order is a toasted Whole Wheat Everything Bagel with Scallion Tofutti cream cheese. Yum yum yum... until the guilt sets in :) Every once in a while it's worth it, and H&H is the place to get your bagel fix.

H&H Midtown Bagels*

1551 2nd Avenue
(between 80th & 81st St)

New York, NY 10028

H&H Midtown Bagels Website

*Not in Midtown! Location is in Upper East Side