Miami used to be inundated with numerous delis such as Wolfies, Rascal House, Pumpernik’s and Jerry’s. But delis kind of fell out of favour with the younger crowd and have become relics of the past. One place that is still standing and going strong is Bagel Bar East at 1990 NE 123rd st. in North Miami at San Souci.

The Bagel Bar is only open for breakfast and lunch daily from 6:30am – 3 pm. It is not what I would call an attractive restaurant but it is more of a “joint” – what you’d think of as an old school deli. But guess what, it has delicious food and has become a neighbourhood staple for many. The place is always packed and it isn’t always easy to find a parking spot out back.

Their bagels are at the first deli counter, right when you walk in. Undoubtly some of Miami’s best handmade, they are hand rolled, boiled and baked in shop. There are 17 varieties, such as – poppy seed, onion, sesame, cinnamon raisin, garlic, oat bran, honey whole wheat, marble, seven grain, pumpernickel and blueberry. Montreal or Toronto bagels are better, in my opinion, but these are still very decent. They also make an awesome rye bread that is usually still warm when I pick one up. The deli takeout counter serves things like: chopped egg, tuna, chicken, coleslaw, potato salad, chopped herring and white fish. Some say they sell Miami’s best nova and lux too, as well as different cream cheeses. The bakery counter sells breads, cookies, babka, rugalah, danishes and muffins. And, all at half the price of Epicure … and many say better.

Or, you may choose to sit at a table or booth and order from their HUGE menu. There is an all day breakfast with pancakes, eggs, waffles, French toast, and blintzes. There is also a large selection of salads and New York style deli sandwiches such as corn beef, pastrami, turkey, roast beef, brisket, and salami as well as tuna melts and Rubens. They also have wraps, fruit salads, matzo brei and a kid’s menu too.

This is a family-owned and operated establishment with fast service, solid food and reasonable prices.

One thing I just don’t understand, why aren’t they open for dinner? They’d do gangbusters business.

Recommended.
Happy dining,
Shanea

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