It seems ridiculous to mention the word “terroir” and “bagel” in the same sentence, and yet in understanding a New York bagel, the two words must be inexplicably paired. The working theory of what gives a New York-style bagel its signature taste is the tap water with which it is made. Apparently, tap water in New York City contains a certain balance of minerals that work to soften the water while other trace minerals are believed to strengthen the gluten. The water, then, plays the same role in the bagel as a grape’s terroir does in the final flavor profile of a wine. There you have it: “terroir” and “bagel” in the same sentence.

At 99 Bottles, which has found a unique niche for itself as a purveyor of diverse and inspired cuisine, a weekend brunch menu includes an assortment of authentic New York-style bagels that have been flash-frozen and overnighted to sunny Sarasota. Featuring all manner of breakfast sandwiches to go along with mimosas, beers and wines, the bagels are finished in-house to order. Wrapped in butcher paper, the sandwiches pack all the big city pride of our nation’s financial capital but are paired with our more laid back environs. For a bright and healthy option, go for the bagel with traditional hummus, lettuce, tomato, cucumber and pickled red onion. While an everything bagel adds a nice pop of flavor, the sesame seed bagel offers a more complementary dose of sesame nuttiness that goes well with the hummus.

99 Bottles, 1445 2nd Street, Sarasota. 941-487-7874. info@99bottles.net