In this flavorful episode of The Real State Podcast, hosts Alex Norman and Jamie Blonde dive into the age-old debate of which city produces the superior bagel: New York or Montreal. The episode, titled "Bagel Wars," explores the history, cultural significance, and distinct characteristics of bagels from these two iconic cities.

Key Points:

1. Historical Context:
   • The hosts provide a brief history of bagels, tracing their origins from Central Europe to their modern-day prominence in New York and Montreal. The discussion highlights the unique evolution of bagels in each city, from the influence of Polish immigrants in New York to the distinct recipe developed in Montreal.
2. New York Bagels:
   • Known for their larger size, saltiness, and chewy texture, New York bagels are celebrated for their variety and the cultural ritual of ordering them fresh out of the oven. The hosts reminisce about classic New York bagel spots like H&H and discuss how the city’s water is believed to contribute to the bagel’s unique taste and texture.
3. Montreal Bagels:
   • Smaller, sweeter, and with a larger hole, Montreal bagels are hand-rolled, poached in honey water, and baked in wood-fired ovens. The episode discusses how these bagels are often preferred for sandwiches and how their distinct taste has made them popular beyond Montreal, with bakeries like Bross Bagels expanding into Europe.
4. Taste and Texture:
   • Alex and Jamie compare the taste and texture of the two bagel styles, noting that New York bagels are more uniform and versatile, while Montreal bagels offer a more delicate, toast-like experience with a distinctive smoky flavor.
5. Cultural Significance:
   • The hosts delve into the emotional connection between food and memory, emphasizing how our preferences for certain foods, like bagels, are often tied to childhood experiences and regional pride.
6. Regional and Global Influence:
   • While the debate centers on New York and Montreal, the episode acknowledges that great bagels can be found across the United States and the world. The hosts give shoutouts to notable bagel spots in cities like Chicago, Portland, and Los Angeles, highlighting the diverse ways in which bagels are enjoyed.

• The episode wraps up by encouraging listeners to appreciate both New York and Montreal bagels for their unique qualities and to explore how these beloved baked goods can evoke powerful memories and bring joy, no matter where they're from.