Beloved Bagel Shop Closes Amidst Health Violations
Unexpected Closure Brings Morning Routines to a Halt
Morning routines for many on Manhattan’s Upper West Side were thrown into chaos after a beloved bagel shop unexpectedly closed for good — despite having long lines extending out the front door daily.
A Long History of Noncompliance
After more than three decades in business, locals were stunned and disappointed to find Absolute Bagels on Broadway near West 108th Street had been shut down by the city’s Heath Department following a failed inspection. The shop had a history of noncompliance, having been forced to close in 2013 and 2017 for vermin infestation and unsanitary conditions.
The List of Violations
Health inspectors called the bagel stop a public health hazard, and listed some of the many violations found inside — some of which would make even the most fervent bagel fan not want to eat there. Among the violations found were:
- Rat droppings in the food prep, storage, and service areas
- Sugar packets gnawed by rats
- Dead rodents found on glue traps
- Live roaches
- Smoked salmon contaminated by condensate wastewater dripping onto food in the display case
A Disappointing Inspection
According to the Health Department’s website, the shop accrued 67 points during the Dec. 11 inspection. For reference, anything more than 28 points earns a C letter grade from the department.
A Staple of the Community
A staple since the 1990s with thousands of rave reviews, staff could be seen inside on Friday gutting the shop, dumping everything from cooking equipment to chairs in a dumpster outside. "Literally people are walking up to it, knock on the door, saying ‘what the heck is going on.’ They’re wondering why this place isn’t here," said Lorenzo Fanning.
Conclusion
The sudden closure of Absolute Bagels has left a void in the community, and a sense of disappointment and dismay among its loyal customers. While the shop may have had its issues, it was a beloved institution that will be deeply missed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Absolute Bagels close?
A: The shop was shut down by the city’s Heath Department following a failed inspection due to numerous health violations.
Q: What were the health violations?
A: The violations included rat droppings, sugar packets gnawed by rats, dead rodents, live roaches, and smoked salmon contaminated by condensate wastewater.
Q: Has Absolute Bagels been shut down before?
A: Yes, the shop was forced to close in 2013 and 2017 for vermin infestation and unsanitary conditions.
Q: Will the shop reopen?
A: The Health Department has not been contacted by the owner to begin the reopening process.
