Simit & Smith – LOST GEM
100 William Street; 1400 Broadway; 111 Worth Street; 11 Waverly Place; New Jersey;
Simits are often referred to as “Turkish bagels” – rings of dough that are thinner than ordinary bagels, crunchier on the outside, and softer on the inside. In Turkey, they are traditionally sold as street food in stalls called “Simitci.” This is another favorite stop when friends and family visit me on 72nd Street. On a daily basis, it is difficult to resist the smell emanating from the tiny shop as I walk past, but I have made it my go-to place when I am traveling out of town and want something to eat along the way. I order either a plain Simit or the panini sandwich with mozzarella cheese, tomato and pesto. Although not a coffee drinker myself, I have certainly turned a lot of others onto their strong, rich Turkish espresso. I have had several declare it is one of the best that they have tasted.