A Really Great American Bagel

Once again, my impact on the local food and beverage industry has been felt.  I could not be prouder (not to mention satiated).

The last time I left my mark on my local White Hen (now Kostner Korner).  About ten years ago, their suppliers semi-forced them to switch from fountain Coke products to that other beverage product (aka Pepsi).  I worked at Lerner Newspapers at the time and I expressed my displeasure in the form of a column in the paper.  I lead a protest which helped bring back Coke.

Several months ago, while in Oak Lawn, I stopped in the Great American Bagel (GAB) for a sandwich.  I have been a fan of the GAB since I lived next to one in Elmwood Park some 20+ years ago.  My eyes immediately clicked on a new bagel…a pretzel bagel.  I ordered a turkey sandwich on one and got an extra one for later.

This was one tasty bagel.  It was like a soft pretzel merged with a fresh bagel, complete with a little pretzel salt on top.  It was my new favorite.

On my next visit to my closest GAB in Morton Grove, I mentioned the pretzel bagel to Eric, the friendly owner, hoping he might offer them in his place.  He seemed interested.

Needing to seal the deal, the next time I was in Oak Lawn, I bought a couple extra for Eric to taste for himself.  Upon his first bite, he was as impressed as I was.

Over the next couple weeks, he gave me reports on his progress in perfecting the recipe.  Then one day, there they were, happily nestled in the display case.  Eric even offered me one free to taste.  I had to be honest and tell him that it was really good, but not quite there (and he knew it, too).  Now though, a few months into the Great Pretzel Bagel Project, I am happy and proud to report that his pretzel bagels are great!

I realize I did not bring about world peace, but it is nice to know that a local business owner cares enough to listen and is open enough to try something new.  It is also good to know I can get a pretzel bagel any time I want now!