It is hardly the only bagel line in Los Angeles, but people I trust say Courage Bagels is worth the wait. When I find myself between two groups of regulars, I do what any newbie would do: I eavesdrop. Then again at the 40-minute mark — but the only thing sillier than standing here, I realize, would be to leave empty-handed. Customers settle for less to get more, at times sacrificing anything resembling ambience for the opportunity to eat well. Yes, there’s a $24 wild Alaskan salmon roe sandwich, but there’s also a $6 bagel and schmear.

---

Persons: there’s Organizations: Chefs Locations: Los Angeles, Virgil Village, East Hollywood