Angie C.
Yelp
I spend a lot of time in New York City and regularly stash bagels from my favorite spot there in my luggage to bring home. Talking to a local NYC transplant friend recently about few Pittsburgh bagels measure up, she asked if I had tried Pigeon. She said anytime she goes, she brings home a dozen to freeze. I knew she would not steer me wrong so, before the New Year's Day holiday, I decided to set out to fill my freezer with some really good bagels.
Pigeon is a tiny spot with a few parking spots for patrons, but you will most likely find street parking around the corner. You will then wait in a short line until it's your turn to go in, as they allow five patrons in the small shop at once. The staff is so friendly, helpful and efficient. There are only about a handful of bagel types, schmears and sandwiches, so your choices should be quick. I got half a dozen to take home, a container of fig and honey cream cheese that sounded absolutely dreamy, and could not pass up a sandwich with vegan carrot lox to try. They even have a herb tofu schmear. Amazing!!
The garlic and sea salt bagel combines two of my favorite bagel flavors and is absolutely delicious. Just the right amount of crunch and chewiness; this is a true NY style bagel. My vegan carrot lox, which came with red onions and capers as well, was such a treat. I've never had actual lox since I've been a vegetarian since age 5, but this had a rich savory, smoky taste, and it was clear how much thought and care had been put into the ingredients. I was so impressed with this offering, both in the fact that it existed at all and in its execution.
I also got a delicious cold brew, and the first of my half dozen bagels at home was so delicious with the slightly sweet, creamy, fig-dotted cream cheese. I'm guessing you can't go wrong with anything you order here. I am sure I will be back far too often than is good for my waistline. Wonderful.