It’s Bagel

It's Bagel is a bagel shop in Melbourne, Victoria, and the word around town is that the bagels come out fresh and generously filled. You can eat in, take away or get it delivered, and the coffee gets a mention too, along with an all-day breakfast crowd.

The menu gives you two ways to go. There are set bagels, or you can build your own and choose the bagel, the bread and the fillings to suit. Locals keep pointing to the "Brekky Time" as the one to order: bacon, egg, cheese and a crunchy hash brown in a chewy bagel. The "Fig" is another favourite, with sweet fig compote against mortadella and ham. Salmon and cream cheese is a popular pick, a black pepper cheese bagel has its fans, and there's a fried chicken option for something heartier. There's even a blueberry bagel and a matcha for those after something different.

Portions are the other thing people mention. The bagels don't always look huge when they arrive, but they're packed full without being skimpy, and most call it good value for what you get. We've also heard the staff are friendly and welcoming, and the food tends to come out quickly, although it can slow down when the place is crowded.

The atmosphere is relaxed and a bit hip, with open windows, good music and plenty of seating at the Queen Street store. One honest note: someone who dined there found the open kitchen filled the seating area with a grilled bacon smell, and a couple of the richer fillings were a touch greasy or salty for some tastes. Eating one is also a bit messy, so grab extra napkins.

Early weekend mornings are quieter, and it gets busy at other times. You can pay by card or phone, and it's smart to look up the hours.