The One & Only - Bagel Street Deli

Athens, Ohio, home of Ohio University, has many unique stores and restaurants that offer Bobcat students a number of options.  Many of these are found uptown on Court Street, which happens to be the home of the one and only Bagel Street Deli!  The tiny building that the deli resides in is the final piece to the Court Street puzzle.  A slender building that escapes the eye of those not searching offers an exciting surprise for those who find it.  Although the dull exterior deceives what waits inside, the unparalleled interior creates an atmosphere distinct to Ohio University students.  The trademark bricks of Athens make up the exterior and interior walls, ensuring its fit in the community.  To distinguish itself from other Athens’ competition, Bagel Street Deli allows its customers to cover the walls in chalk and personal art creations made of the tinfoil that their meal is served in.  The art creations express students’ interest, from music to personal designs.  Customers can admire or add to this art form while sitting on rather high stools that surround mosaic table tops.

At the front of the shop, a bulletin board covered in flyers and promotions appeals to the average customers, which tend to be students.  The majority of workers are students as well, so the interaction between people within in the deli is definitely laid-back and casual.  This is reflected in the atmosphere and customer behaviors.  Despite the expectations of a typical deli, along with the apparently dull exterior, Bagel Street Deli is typically boisterous and upbeat.  Along with the customers freely socializing around the unique tables, workers behind the counter shout out orders to one another and welcome each and every customer with enthusiasm ringing in their voices.  Do not be mistaken, however, by believing it to be complete chaos! The energetic vibes does not lead to a lack of respect amongst customers.  There is still an understood courtesy within the lively atmosphere.

Special events within the deli are a part of what makes this place attractive.  A customer favorite event is the pickle eating competition.  This comprises of students eating as many pickles as possible in ten minutes.  Another bulletin board toward the back of the store displays photos of participating customers.  Besides the fun features, Bagel Street offers food that is not only delicious but also affordable.  These reasonable prices are part of the attraction with the average customers being budget-restrained college students.  At any time of the day, customers can order a bagel to their liking from the extensive menu.  With a selection of up to 74 types of bagel sandwiches, the deli’s clientele are guaranteed to find something to satisfy their craving. Whether the need be for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, customers are always assured a fresh, made-to-order meal!  

Bagel Street Deli is a great example of how Athens community recognizes the need for the majority of its customers to be able to afford a decent meal because, let’s face it, the dining halls can only offer so much!  It also exemplifies the way in which Athens residents customize the atmospheres to fit the characteristics of Ohio University students.  Next time you are passing through Athens, Ohio be sure to stop in - It will be worth the search!