Happy Thoughts with Kaylee

Food can carry memories and emotions with them. Starting with that first bite, holidays, special events, dates, and everything in between that brings some kind of reaction inside you wells up. For me, it’s bagels, and I believe bagels are meant to be shared. Sunday mornings, my bagel of choice is plain, lightly toasted golden, with melted butter, paired with a mimosa amongst my family in our backyard, enjoying the rays of the California sun. 

For me, picking up bagels parallels memories of another family routine. Years ago, Sundays after church, my parents would take me and my siblings to pick out a donut from the nearby donut shop. I would get a cake donut with glaze and sprinkles on top. It was quickly consumed as soon as we got home, making the anticipation worth it in the end. 

The transition to bagels wasn’t until the pandemic started, when it became a regular goodie. There was nothing happening that first year, everyone was online (some still are) , events were canceled or postponed, and friends were hanging out at a distance or using Zoom as a venue. Bagels became something to look forward to, a special treat for the family to spend time together and enjoy a simple culinary staple. So simple, but can turn complicated in a blink. A canvas of grain, it is yours to create an edible work of art as you alone desire. 

That first bite is what does it for me, the subtle crunch as the butter swirls in my mouth. It is not a meal to rush, the density paces you to enjoy. I recommend not to have this be a meal in your morning if you are in a rush. The savory of the bagel with the sweet and bubbly of the mimosa, what a pair. Not a sparkling wine drinker? Not a problem, mix some orange juice, limeade and sprite, similar taste, super yummy. What I appreciate about bagels is they can be enjoyed amongst company, or solo in a quiet corner that brings you peace.

My personal favorite shops, Regal Bagel located along Bernal Rd in San Jose, and Saratoga Bagels in Saratoga along, you guessed it, Saratoga/Sunnyvale Rd. Why? For me, they are family run, they’re personable, and have had nothing but positive experiences especially having to adapt in the last two years. I used to pick up lunch from Regal on a regular basis when I was working nearby, they would recognize me when I walked in. If you are feeling extra, order the marinara cheese bagel with ham, cheese, and the garlic and herb spread (fun fact: you can tell you’re from the west coast when you call cream cheese spread, its “schmear” on the east coast). 

For Saratoga, their breakfast sandwich will keep me full without feeling bloated. I always order the ice chai latte to go along with it, and ask for the ice to be blended. Feel like sharing? They offer cocktail sized bagels that are a fun addition to any gathering.

So what’s your bagel or that physical (and emotional) nourishment that brings a memory to mind?