Leo’s Bagels’ Schmears, Ranked

The most important component of a good bagel is the bagel itself. On that front, local standby Leo’s Bagels (3 Hanover Square) more than delivers, but the significance of the schmear element also cannot be overstated. 

All the schmears at Leo’s are tasty, though not all tastiness is equal in measure. We rigorously conducted a comprehensive ranking of all the schmears the shop has to offer — a schmear assessment to be taken very seriously. Cream cheese is no casual matter in Lower Manhattan. 

1. Lox spread
2. Scallion
3. Plain cream cheese
4. Vegetable
5. Jalapeno
6. Sun dried tomato and roasted garlic
7. Kalamata olive
8. Strawberry
9. Low-fat cream cheese 
10. Maple raisin walnut

Note: All the cream cheese at Leo’s is Philadelphia brand, and while they do have tofu and dairy-free options, for control purposes, this ranking includes dairy only. Stay tuned for a vegan-friendly schmear analysis.