Working to bring real bagels to the Midwest, NYC Bagel Deli is the only place in Chicago whose bagels are kettle-boiled, not baked. And the results are mouthwatering (one native New Yorker said these are the only bagels in the city that she'll eat).

Though it shares its real estate with mass-marketed chains Starbucks and Omaha Steaks, this one-of-a-kind shop has clung onto the traditional deli feel. Enter and you are swept into a New York reality: the service is quick but personalized, even the New York accent is detectable. Bagel varieties include plain, poppyseed, onion, egg, sesame, rye, everything, garlic and cranberry walnut; they're sold for 75 cents a pop.

While bagels are NYC Bagel Deli's specialty, you'll find the deli norms, such as tall corned beef sandwiches, aged hard salami and chicken salad. With a focus on carry-out, corporate drones can pass on too-sugary donuts with lox and bagel, fresh fruit, meat and cheese and fresh veggies and dip trays.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Corrie Driebusch