Vintage 1990s Footage of Kossar’s Bialys Surfaces
Photo: Bea Moss Productions
Last week, decades-old footage of Kossar’s Bialys surfaced thanks to the Museum at Eldridge Street.
The found film is a candid look at the Lower East Side institution during the morning rush. When bakers are seen rolling, baking, and stacking the classic snack.
The piece was originally filmed by Bea Moss, who had intended to produce a documentary about the Lower East Side. We obtained a full clip of the Kossar’s visit for your enjoyment.
Kossar’s first opened on Clinton Street as Mirsky and Kossar’s back in 1936, named for Isadore Mirsky and Morris Kossar. It moved to its current Grand Street perch in 1960.
Kossar’s is not what it once was, though. It’s now run by Alan Phillips, the guy behind the Friedman’s chain, which itself opened an outpost just next door at 357 Grand Street. (There have been several ownership changes over the years.) The focus has since shifted from making bagels and bialys to the brand itself. The Kossar’s name – in red and white – became the most important product to sell.
Meanwhile, the business is also amidst expansion with a new 1,200 square-foot location in Chelsea.
Video courtesy of Bea Moss Productions.
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