Lamar's Bagel Express Introduce
When it comes to the quintessential New York City experience, few things are as iconic as the local bagel shop. In the heart of the Two Bridges neighborhood, nestled between the historic Lower East Side and the bustling waterfront, Lamar's Bagel Express stands as a testament to the city's enduring love for quick, delicious, and reliable comfort food. This establishment has carved out a unique niche for itself, serving not just as a morning destination for a caffeine fix and a schmear, but as a community hub that caters to the diverse cravings of New Yorkers at almost any hour of the day.
Lamar's Bagel Express embodies the "no-nonsense" quality that locals appreciate. In a city where trendy spots often prioritize aesthetics over substance, this shop focuses on what truly matters: high-quality ingredients, generous portions, and a staff that treats every customer like a neighbor. Whether you are a lifelong resident of the 10002 zip code or a visitor exploring the vibrant streets of Lower Manhattan, Lamar's provides a welcoming atmosphere that feels authentically New York. The shop has gained a reputation for its reliability, famously remaining a warm sanctuary for hungry patrons even during the city’s harshest snowstorms, proving that their commitment to service is as solid as their bagels.
Location and Accessibility
Conveniently located at 197 Madison St, New York, NY 10002, Lamar's Bagel Express is perfectly positioned to serve a wide array of customers. The shop is situated in a historically rich area of Manhattan, making it an easy stop for those commuting toward the Financial District or those spending a day exploring the nearby East River Park. Its location on Madison Street places it right in the flow of a residential and commercial mix, providing a convenient pit stop for locals heading to work or school.
Accessibility is a key advantage for this neighborhood spot. It is well-served by several transit options, including the F train at the East Broadway station, which is just a short walk away. Additionally, several bus lines frequent the area, ensuring that even those coming from slightly further afield can easily reach the shop. For those who prefer to navigate the city on two wheels, there are numerous bike racks and Citi Bike stations in the vicinity. The shop’s street-level entrance is welcoming and easy to navigate, maintaining the fast-paced efficiency that New York commuters expect when they are looking to grab a quick bite before starting their day.
Services Offered
Lamar's Bagel Express is more than just a place to grab a round piece of bread; it is a full-service deli and grill that understands the varied schedule of the modern New Yorker. They offer a comprehensive range of services designed to make your dining experience as seamless as possible.
- Custom Breakfast Sandwiches: From the classic bacon, egg, and cheese to more specialized combinations, every sandwich is made to order on your choice of fresh bagel or bread.
- Full Grill Menu: Beyond breakfast, the shop features a robust grill menu including highly-rated burgers, cheesesteaks, and hot sandwiches.
- Expert Recommendations: For those overwhelmed by the variety, the staff is known for providing helpful suggestions based on your taste preferences.
- Late-Night Dining: Recognizing that New York is the city that never sleeps, Lamar's serves as a reliable late-night destination for hot, fresh meals.
- Takeout and Quick Service: The shop is optimized for speed, ensuring that even during the morning rush, you can get your food and be on your way without unnecessary delays.
- Beverage Program: A wide selection of hot and cold drinks, including coffee, tea, and sodas, are available to complement any meal.
Features / Highlights
What truly sets Lamar's Bagel Express apart from the hundreds of other options in Manhattan is the combination of its diverse menu and its exceptional staff. Here are a few highlights that keep customers coming back:
- Exceptional Staff: Patrons frequently highlight the warmth and helpfulness of the team, including standout staff members like Peter Mo, who go above and beyond to ensure a positive experience.
- Resilience in All Weather: The shop is known for staying open and welcoming during extreme weather, providing a literal "warm and friendly" refuge during New York winters.
- Quality Across Categories: While "Bagel" is in the name, the shop excels at non-bagel items as well, with many customers citing their burgers as some of the best in the local area.
- Speed and Efficiency: The "Express" in their name is well-earned. The kitchen staff is trained to handle high volumes quickly without compromising the quality of the food.
- Everything Bagel Perfection: Their "everything" seasoning is a fan favorite, providing the perfect savory crunch for their signature breakfast sandwiches.
- Community Atmosphere: The shop maintains a local, neighborhood feel where regular customers are recognized and new visitors are treated with genuine hospitality.
Contact Information
If you are looking to place an order or have questions about their current menu, you can reach out to Lamar's Bagel Express directly. They are always ready to help you find your next favorite meal.
Address: 197 Madison St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Phone: (212) 571-7381
Mobile Phone: +1 212-571-7381
What is worth choosing
If it is your first time visiting Lamar's Bagel Express, the menu offers a few "must-try" items that have garnered significant praise from the local community. For the traditionalist looking for the ultimate New York breakfast, the turkey bacon, egg, and cheese on an everything bagel is a top-tier choice. The turkey bacon is prepared to a perfect crisp, and when paired with the fluffy eggs and the flavorful, seeded bagel, it creates a balanced and satisfying start to any morning. The staff is always happy to recommend their favorite spreads or additions if you want to customize your sandwich further.
However, do not let the morning hours limit your experience. If you find yourself in the neighborhood later in the day, or even late at night, their burgers are a standout selection. Many regulars argue that the burgers at Lamar's rival those of dedicated burger joints in Manhattan, offering a juicy, well-seasoned patty that hits the spot when you need a hearty meal. Whether you are stopping in for a quick coffee and a bagel or sitting down for a late-night burger during a snowstorm, you can expect consistent quality and a friendly smile. In the competitive world of New York delis, Lamar's Bagel Express proves that great food and even better service are the keys to becoming a neighborhood institution.
Lamar's Bagel Express Photos










Lamar's Bagel Express Location
Lamar's Bagel Express
197 Madison St, New York, NY 10002, USA
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Lamar's Bagel Express
197 Madison St
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Lamar's Bagel Express Reviews
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Came in on a late night during a snowstorm, one of the best burgers I got around town, and a very warm and friendly staff Peter Mo were super helpful. Definitely a place to check out at any time of the day !
Feb 23, 2026 · Brendan Lunn -
Friendly and fast. Made recommendations when I wasn’t sure what to get. Got a turkey bacon, egg and cheese on an everything bagel. Food was delicious! Will definitely be back.
Feb 21, 2026 · Chelsea Drumgoole -
I went to this establishment Tuesday morning and ordered a breakfast platter. My platter consists of 2 eggs fried, bacon and home fries. I also bought the tea with lemon. The staff are kind, courteous, respectful and the food is delicious. It's a good location because it's by the f train station; it's convenient to pickup food before heading to work. Highly recommend this place.
Feb 12, 2026 · under the milkyway -
I come here for simple things such as fried egg and cheese on a roll or butter and jelly on a bagel. I can't complain there open at 5:30 in the morning on my commute to work and it's always packed. The bagels and roll are fresh and on rotation due to it always being crowded however they move very quickly. I like a regular customer as long as I'm working in the area.
Mar 05, 2026 · Kaity Rodriguez -
We stumbled upon this place before taking the subway, and SO glad we did, delicious and huge portions for a cheap price! We travelled from Canada in May and still talk about it to this day! Somehow the best place we ate in NYC
Aug 23, 2025 · May
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