Taking over another fast-casual spot, Italiano, I hope the Brooklyn Water Bagel does better though my experience today was not a good sign. It started off fine with an enthusiastic greeting from both people behind the counter of which one was a working manager, a rarity.

I ordered a turkey on an everything bagel with a slice of onion ($9.99). Possibly my fault not ordering the bagel toasted but whoever made it should have asked if I would like it toasted as they could tell from cutting it how hard it was. Had the bagel been sitting too long? It certainly wasn't fresh. It came with Cole Slaw, too 'wet' and a good sour pickle. I also ordered a small soda which was $1.99 on the menu but $2.49 on the receipt. (A personal peeve--why order the larger 32 ounce size soda when you can refill the 24 ounce small one as much as you want and 24 ounces isn't 'small'?)

Anthony had the Chicken salad melt on Sourdough bread (($8.99) and an Iced Tea ($2.49) He didn’t comment on the salad but he did say the tea wasn't good.

After you give your order you get your drinks and condiments and go to a table where you place a placard with a number and you eventually are served your food.

By the way, this was new to me--a dispenser of individual plastic utensils.

When we walked in the first display you see is of huge muffins and cookies so how could I say no? I ordered the Banana nut chocolate muffin ($2.99) and after one bite I decided to take it home, heat and eat it later. Whether eating it in the restaurant or at home it was dry, with a very (not good) chocolaty taste. I should have said no.

The check, with tax, came to $27.96--Anthony paid and put a tip in the jar.

I had really been looking forward to eating at the Brooklyn Water Bagel restaurant whenever I passed their first one every Thursday in Fort Lauderdale downtown and when this one opened I was ready. The former one has already closed

Sorry but I guess I like Bronx bagels better!