There are certain gimmicks that I don't subscribe to, which is any kind of fusion in bagel form…read more (#1) Between The Bagel proved me wrong, in a way that I haven't fully yet recovered and as a result has become a go-to destination for me whenever I'm back in Astoria. They've done such an outstanding job across the board (customer service, price, food, etc.) that I am constantly thinking about going back.
Located on the constantly busy (#2) 30th Ave, one wouldn't notice this place as being any different from any other bagel shop. There's hardly any seating but a steady stream of customers all throughout the day. The NSFW signage (#3) keeps the place fresh and interesting, if not extremely memorable.
The first thing that is offered (and often complimentary) is their fried rice balls, dubbed "Ben's Balls" that are mixed with seasoned rice, kimchi, topped with a gochujang mayo that would wake up any sleepyhead. Each bite had a nice crunch, but the lingering effect of the kimchi makes it addicting. It is the ultimate complementary snack, a desired, potluck item, and frankly genius. This is not something I would ever consider getting out a bagel shop, but having had them I would gladly buy them by the dozens.
Most folks are here for the Seoul Meets Bagel (SMB) and rightfully so: it's layered with chopped bulgogi meat, cheese, egg, kimchi, topped with gochujang mayo and is packed with flavor. While the dank ass pork sandwich is a crude name, but it's not hard to see why it's one of their best sellers.
Their regular bagels are also excellent. Folks who are expecting a large variety of cream cheese may find it disappointing that there's only a handful in the display, but they do have lox, bacon scallion, tofu cream cheese, and some flavored cream cheese. For what it's worth, my toasted everything bagel with lox was fabulous. It was pillowy soft, nicely toasted, and extremely filling.
Offering Korean savory bagels wouldn't be complete without actual Korean fare, which is also a part of their larger than expected menu. It includes items such as Korean fried chicken, kimbap, pajeon (various), bibimbap, kalbi, ramyum, and mandoo. This is in addition to the burgers, breakfast platters and sandwiches, and a number of pastries.
The staff is mostly Spanish and English speaking, in addition to the owner Ben who brings Korean to the table. Prices are very reasonable for Astoria and I'm hoping they continue to stay that way. This spot is the ultimate neighborhood spot and I'm insanely jealous of all the residents in the area that get to enjoy this on the regular.
___________
(#1) Why mess with something that doesn't need changing? Oh, because palate + innovation.
(#2) And incredibly gentrified.
(#3) One sign reads: "My happy place is when I tell people to .... FU, KMA, MF, STFU, SOB, SMD." Oh how New York.