It started in my freshman year of college. I was a commuter since where I was attending was only 15 minutes away from my house. I happened to never have a Friday morning class, and my dad was off from work on Fridays as well. We hadn’t been to Eli’s Hot Bagels in Aberdeen for a while, and decided to give it a try. Nearly seven years later, a Friday morning bagel at Eli’s has become a tradition. There are times during the year such as when I am substitute teaching or working a summer camp where this is not possible, but for the most part, I can’t do without it. A simple toasted everything bagel with butter, black French vanilla coffee, and a copy of the New York Post to read through a Larry Brooks column. Yes, it all tastes much better after a Rangers’ win, but it’s all good just the same.

Their bagels are fantastic. I always order mine double-toasted because I like them darker than normal. A crispy, hot bagel dripping with butter. Do you want to start your morning any other way? I don’t even usually eat breakfast during the week except for when I am here. In recent years, we’ve gone for lunch too. Their deli sandwiches are also very well constructed, and they make a killer BLT on a bagel. This is just a shout-out to a place which has become a part of my life, albeit in a small way. For me, it sets my day right and caps off the end of the week. Eli’s is legendary in the Aberdeen area, and worth a visit even if you’re not in the neighborhood. I live about 10 minutes away, but it’s so worth it. 3.5 out of 5 stars (review #32).