I have become a huge Owen's fan. This funky little spot hidden from the street inside the Pavilion in the South End is worth finding. It has amazing character, with its off beat decor and sharpie decorated tables.
But the real reason I visit Owen's is for the bagels. We transplanted New Yorkers are at a loss for real bagels - most of CLT is dominated by bagel chains that serve soft, doughy round rolls and call them bagels. Owen's has the real deal - dense, chewy, with real bite.
I have become addicted to a cream cheese I'd never have tasted prior to my CLT move. Bacon, ranch, scallion cream cheese - salty, tangy, tasty, perfect on a toasted sesame bagel. Owen's also offers sandwiches and fun, creative options for bagel based food. Try it. You won't be sorry!