Phat Bagel piles it on with giant creations

Dig in: I ordered a toasted everything bagel ($3) with candied jalapeño cream cheese ($3).

• The huge bagel had a crispy crust and doughy middle, and the spread was a perfect combo of rich, sweet and just a tad spicy.
• Phat Bagel offers even fatter breakfast sandwiches with a variety of toppings like egg, avocado, goat cheese, ricotta and more. Vegan options are available. They range from $5.50–$15.50.

The intrigue: Starting earlier this year as a food stand selling at farmers markets and breweries, Phat Bagel's new shop in the growing Liberty Avenue culinary scene was an instant hit, selling out of bagels during its first weekend.

• When I visited last Thursday at midday, customers were constant and employees worked quickly.
• My order only took a couple of minutes, and two in-store kiosks made it easy to pay.

Context: Phat Bagel took over the space from Baby Loves Tacos, which moved to a slightly larger restaurant next door.

If you go: 4508 Liberty Ave. in Bloomfield.

• Monday–Friday 5:30am–2pm, Saturday–Sunday 7:30am–2pm