Bagels Etc. — Restaurant in Washington

It may look like a tiny, humble, hole-in-the-wall store from the outside, but Bagels Etc. is truly worthy of being known as one of DC's best bagel shops. It's one of those hidden gems that only DC locals know about, with their inconspicuous storefront, vague name printed in the most standard of fonts, and cash only policy. But taking a leap of faith and stepping inside is 100% worth it. Their bagels are baked to absolute perfection, with the most incredible slightly crunchy outer crust and beautifully spongy, chewy interior. They have all of the classic flavors you could ever ask for, whether you're looking for a savory or sweet option, as well as a few unique choices like their spinach bagel (it sounds weird but I promise you, it's incredible).

As far as toppings and spreads go, they have all the classic cream cheeses and a few veggie toppings for my vegan and lactose intolerant friends, as well as a series of sandwiches that you can try. I personally love topping a savory bagel with avocado and veggies and then grabbing a little tin of their hot sauce...it's such a perfect way to start the morning! The bagels are a little bit smaller than your average bagel shop bagel, so if you prefer a larger breakfast in the morning, I would definitely go for two (or, as weird as it is, one and a half bagels...maybe come with a friend and order three so that each of you can have one and a half?).

There isn't a ton of seating available inside the shop -- just a couple of small tables by the kitchen, one by the front counter, and then a few right outside the front door -- so be prepared to have to take your order to go. I usually pass by this spot on my way to work, so it's the perfect place to stop for a...

I stopped by this store recently and had a disappointing experience that I think is worth sharing. I knew the shop is cash-only, and that they have an ATM inside, which charges a fee.

That’s inconvenient enough, but what really left a bad impression was what happened when I tried to help someone.

An elderly homeless man outside the store asked me if I could buy him two bananas. I agreed, but since I only had my card, I explained the situation to the staff: the purchase wasn’t for me but for a hungry senior, and I asked if they could make an exception and run my card just this once. They insisted that I withdraw cash from their ATM instead.

I then asked, given that the bananas on display were already very ripe, if they might consider donating even one to the man. They refused again.

I understand businesses have policies, but I was surprised at how unwilling they were to show even a small amount of flexibility or compassion—especially as a community store that sells simple foods like bagels and bananas. It was not about the money, but about a missed opportunity...

If you've been around the D.C. scene for a while, you know that people are obsessed with Call Your Mother bagels in Park View NW. Bagels Etc. is to Dupont Circle as Call Your Mother is to Park View.

Like Call Your Mother, you can expect a crowd at Bagels Etc., especially in the morning. However, the staff here move very fast and the wait isn't very long. A group of women run the operation and have it down to a science.

The bagels are phenomenal. They are usually warm from the oven, but just in case, ask for it toasted. My order is the chocolate bagel with honey walnut cream cheese for $4. It comes out warm, the cream cheese perfectly melted. The bagel itself has great texture and is quality. They also sell bagel sandwiches, coffee, and other breakfast items.

There's some seating in the front (lower tables) and high bar seating in the way back. They also have restrooms in the back.

This is a CASH ONLY cafe, but there's an ATM inside that charges you only $1.50 per...