Whitestone Bagel Factory - 4.08/5

Store
A contemporary store that mixes exposed brick and showroom tiling. The interior is large with seating stashed in the corner from COVID. A newer Coldplay song plays on the radio. Good pastry selection, surprisingly small drink selection, very professional bagel and spread displays. The ordering system is notably disorganized. People wait in clumps not knowing who is next and staff randomly take orders so they have no idea who's next either. It takes awhile to be served and after I'm helped multiple staff shout "next" to a room full of people already being helped. It seems like one 'order here' sign would go a long way.
3.75/5

Bagel
A huge bagel with a tiny central hole and an off-center cut. Two-sided topping application, somewhat uneven but decent coverage overall. Salt is not a focal point of the taste experience and that's okay in this instance. The real story is the bagel itself. A very tough yet rewarding chew, with a natural malt toastiness to the shell you'll only find from NOT toasting your bagel. With each bite the bagel quality improved, an uncommon experience. A great spot for lovers of big, crackling, tough chew bagels.
4.25/5

Cream Cheese
Served cold. Slightly uneven application but good amount. A nice crispness to the scallions owing to the solid chunk size. The chill of the spread does a great job moderating the tanginess. Well balanced.
4.25/5