IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD (Mocha Bagels)

My search for the best bagels in New York continues….

The newest tour I’ve been giving is the Neighborhood Eats Tour of the Carroll Gardens area of Brooklyn. I say “area” since we technically hit three different neighborhoods (Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, and Brooklyn Heights) and they’re all very similar in architecture, culture, and diversity of food options. Since I don’t live in any of those neighborhoods (I don’t even live in Brooklyn), I make it a point to eat at a different restaurant before or after each of my tours on Saturdays.

And so it was time for a nosh at Mocha Bagels. Except I don’t think I would have really chosen this above places like Cafe Luluc or Watty & Meg, if I wasn’t forever on my quest for the best bagel in the city. But this generic-looking shop has been recommended to me on more than one occasion, so it was well past time.

Disappointed that Mocha had nothing to do with chocolate, I trudged on and waited in the disorganized line. None of the bagels were hot, but many employees assured me they were all fresh. This place is open 24 hours (which is a bit unusual for this residential neighborhood) and the bagels are baked on premises.

My everything bagel with cream cheese was a reasonable $1.75. Pillowy and soft, the bagel was a tad flat in diameter. But the flavors were accurate with a restrained sprinkling of salt, garlic, and seeds.

This was a fine bagel and probably the best in the area (much better than nearby Court Street Bagels). And I should know, since I’m a certified neighborhood tour guide (and obsessive neighborhood eater).

Does Mocha Bagels have the best bagels in NY? They’re a little flatter than I like, but still soft and chewy and fresh. 7 out of 10.