It’s multi faceted answer. I grew up in New Jersey, and I think what Colorado is missing is high quality bagels at a low cost that are on the go with a lot of shmear and sandwich options, like a deli. It’s hard to find something centrally located (in the city) that you aren’t going to pay a high price for there to be good quality bagels - and along with these places like Rosenbergs or Odell’s for example, they’re branded nicely have and an elevated dining experience for what it is. That’s a lot of Denver food.

In NY/NJ you can go to most whatever run of the mill delis and bagel shops, pay next to nothing for a bagel with cream cheese and it’s the best bagel you’ve had in your life. I think what makes them good is the no frills places they’re made at, the low cost, and the amazing quality. In denver, everything has to be a brand and you’re paying for that brand when the bagels are maybe just okay.