Photo by Micheal Branscom
Penis Bagel
Want some bread that puts the "man" back in manna? Look no further than an anatomically-correct penis bagel. Yes, it's shaped like a man, but made for anyone who loves bagels with a thick outer crust and soft chewy center. Traditionalists, have no fear, this version of the Jewish delicacy is circumcised.
About 10 years ago, a customer asked Joe Gilbert of South Street Bagels if he could create the manly morsel for his upcoming bachelor party. Gilbert obliged, making a penis bagel that was used for the party's place settings. Recently, he was talking about the titillating treat with Fran Price, owner of Franny's Place coffee shop. She was so taken with the novelty that Gilbert now makes a few dozen every week to sell in the shop. The response has been almost all positive, attracting customers from as far away as Delaware.
"One man told me he was offended by them," recalls Price, "and the guy standing next to him asked 'Why, does it look like yours?'"
Exactly whose member has been commemorated by the bagel? "No one's in particular," assures Gilbert, who's surprised at the item's success.
"I just love to see people's faces when they realize what they're cutting into," laughs Price, adding that they've been nicknamed the "Lorena Bobbitt" bagel.
Gilbert has also made breast bagels, but there are no plans to sell them on a regular basis. Penis bagels are available fresh on the weekends at Franny's Place for $1.50. Twenty-five cent day-olds are available on Monday, for those who like it a little harder.
Franny's Place, 203 S. 13th St., 985-2344.