Taking over the former premises of what was formerly Stirling Steaks at 43 East Coast Road (also the same shophouse which used to house now-defunct Carvers & Co.), Firewood Chicken and Bagel is a new F&B establishment which serves up bagels in the day, whilst also serving up a completely different menu featuring Korean fried chicken for dinner service.

The Cowboy Bagel here comes served on a familiar pink plate that seems to be similar to that used at Fluff Stack at Suntec City (the Northpoint City outlet uses a slightly different plate); features elements such as Iceberg Lettuce, Cucumber, Gherkins, Caramelised Onions, Tomato, Guacamole, Mozzarella and Beef — patrons can get to choose between Plain, Blueberry or Onion & Sesame Bagel (which we opted for the Onion & Sesame variant), while all orders come with a side of curly fries. Felt that the Cowboy Bagel was pretty decent; well-portioned given the size of the meat served with the bagel, the Onion & Sesame bagel was pretty satisfying given the firm bite it carries, while the beef was not particularly gamey — pretty tender without having any veiny or fatty bits that are difficult to chew on. The other elements such as the caramalised onions provides a hint of sweetness that compliments the entire package, while the iceberg lettuce helps to add a refreshing crunch; the bagel also comes slathered with mustard sauce which seems to cut through the meatiness of the bagel, whilst also providing moisture to the dish. The curly fries served on the side comes satisfyingly crisp; a crowd-pleaser which is good to have.

A pretty unique establishment given how the menu seems to go through a 180 degree change between brunch/lunch service and dinner service; from classic bagels to Korean fried chicken — two rather separate themes considering that the bagels offered here do not really come with Korean-inspired elements. That being said, the bagels are pretty satisfying; quite a spot worth dropping by for brunch though with pretty limited seating due to restrictions in place to curb COVID-19 — a spot that is worth keeping a look out for!