Better Know a Bagel: Art’s Bagels & More in Acworth
The hunt for the best bagel in Atlanta continues
By David R. Cohen | david@atljewishtimes.com
Since 1994, Art’s Bagels & More has made authentic New York-style bagels in Acworth. For the next stop in my bagel odyssey, begun last fall, I made the trek to check out this family-owned and –
operated business.
Art’s was originally a Manhattan Bagel franchise during the bagel boom of the mid-1990s. When Manhattan Bagel declared bankruptcy in 1998, Art’s went independent. The shop has crafted its own bagels, cream cheese and pastries ever since.
Atmosphere
Art’s Bagels makes its home in the Mars Hill Point shopping center off Cobb Parkway next to Johnny’s Pizza and Auto Zone. Inside, autographed pictures of local legends hang on the wall, wishing well to the bagel bakery. The collection ranges from legendary University of Georgia broadcaster Larry Munson to ageless Braves wonder Julio Franco, who played professional baseball until he was 49. His framed autograph reads, “Art’s keeps me going.” If Franco ate here, these bagels must be good.
Verdict: 4/5 Bagels
Bagels
Boiled and baked on location in the traditional New York style, these bagels are the real deal. Art’s serves over 20 varieties, including super cinnamon, spinach, and classics sesame, rye and everything. My only gripe was that my everything bagel seemed a little sparse on seasoning. Nevertheless, these bagels seriously satisfy.
Verdict: 5/5 Bagels
Spreads
Art’s makes almost everything in house, and that includes its assortment of more than 15 cream cheese varieties. I enjoyed the garlic and herb and honey-walnut, but the shop also offers cinnamon apple crunch, spinach-artichoke, and the brazenly unkosher chive and bacon. Aside from the diversity in cream cheese, the menu doesn’t offer anything exotic, just classic bagels, sandwiches and schmear. You won’t even find home fries on the menu.
Verdict: 4/5 Bagels
Overall
Art’s Bagels & More is a throwback to a simpler time: a shop that makes great bagels and spreads in a simple, casual atmosphere where everyone is welcome to have a nosh. If you find yourself in Acworth in the morning or early afternoon, stop by this family-owned restaurant for a bite.
Verdict: 4.5/5 Bagels
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