Lox In A Box Marrickville

Lox In A Box in Marrickville is a bagel-led deli with a retro New York feel, and it's a busy little spot for a quick bite or a slow brekky. The fit-out gets plenty of comment, along with the street-side tables out the front, which suit the kind of casual, watch-the-world-go-by meal this place does well. Seating inside is limited, so it's worth knowing before you arrive with a group.

The bagels are the main event. You pick from three bagel styles and a good run of fillings, and the Reuben, the classic lox with herby cream cheese, the brekky bagel and a peri peri chicken have all won fans. Portions are generous enough that one local often takes half home for the next meal. The brekky bagel is a favourite for first-timers, and fresh bagels are made daily. Bagels with gluten free options come up too, and there are vegetarian and vegan choices on the menu. If you've got a sweet tooth, locals rave about the chocolate and halva babka and the banana pudding.

Drinks lean towards the cold side, with iced matcha, cold brew, iced lattes and an Arnold Palmer all getting a mention, plus the usual hot coffee. Opinions on the coffee are a little split, with some happy and the odd person finding the iced lattes too sweet or a long black too hot, so the bagels are the safer bet. One visitor also felt the classic lox could do with a touch more salmon, and that prices lean a little up for the size.

What nearly everyone agrees on is the welcome. Staff are friendly and happy to walk newcomers through the concept and help choose a bagel. They do takeaway, delivery, dine-in and catering, and one local organised their Mother's Day spread here, praising the herb schmear, pickles and smoked salmon. The business is family-run, making its Jewish-style deli fare in-house with recipes handed down through the family.

Hours look fairly generous across the week, but check them before you head in if you're after a particular time.