The morning meal is said to be the most important of the day. Breakfast foods are always trying to expand their domain, and for college students, it is important to have many new options. With different styles of food, it all depends on the person. Needing something on the go like yogurt or muffins? Or maybe you like sitting in for pancakes or French toast. Whether you prefer one or the other, the Bagel Boutique should be perfect for you.
Newly opened on Aug. 22, people in Mechanicsburg have been excited about this new place. For the past week, people have waited in lines and had trouble finding parking spots just to get a piece of this appetizing new place. The parking lot is big, but when it is crowded, it is harder to find a spot.
On the day I visited, I arrived just at 9 a.m., and the parking lot was mostly filled. Luckily enough, I was able to grab a spot right in front of the entrance. When you walk in, you are greeted with bright lights. The decorative tile of the floor and the style of the walls make it fun and welcoming. There are a good number of tables, but if it is crowded then it is less likely you will get a seat. While waiting, you can take pictures of the place. One photo suggestion — a neon sign saying, “Dreams Dough Come True.”
During my visit there was a line that wrapped around the tables, which was about eight people in front of me. The line did move quickly, and the workers kept making new orders right away. By the time I ordered my food, the line got longer and probably could have been outside the door. The food did not take that long, probably five to 10 minutes, but the staff did give me the burrito and drink separately. Right in front, you can see all the crazy bagel combinations available, like the “Cookie Monster” and the “Yabba Dabba Doo.” The menu is big enough that you can try something new each time. It includes options such as breakfast sandwiches, burritos and drinks.
I ordered the “Philly Burrito” with a “Rainbow Mango” drink. The burrito was very filling, but not exactly what I expected. With Philly in front, I expected it to be like a cheesesteak breakfast burrito. It was delicious, but “Philly” does not exactly describe it correctly. The steak meat is the same but not like a cheesesteak. There is pepper and onions, which gives a favorable taste, and the eggs go well with the meat and potatoes. The Rainbow Mango drink was also not what I expected. With the ingredients being fruit and orange juice, I thought it would be more like a smoothie, but it was colder, like a slushy. It had ice in it, but I could taste the fresh mango. It was refreshing, but I probably would not get it again. The design of the drink was cool, with crazy colors and the mix between all the fruits. The Bagel Boutique does not offer too many options for drinks, unless you enjoy coffee or want tea and lemonade. With both items and a tip, I paid a total of $25.41.
Even though it has not been in business a full month, the establishment seems to be working well. The food is something that you cannot get at regular breakfast spots, and in the area, it is probably most needed for people working and students.
Hopefully in the next few months, the hype will die down, and it will become a spot to pick up easily. With a menu consisting of many things, I will definitely go back and try one of the bagels, as standing in front of the glass really lets you see how good everything looks. Being about 30 minutes from the university is not the best, but this place really makes it worth it with the quality of food.
Location
6581 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Hours
Monday-Friday
6 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday
7 a.m. – 12 p.m.
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