Watch Disappearing NYC: Glaser's Bake Shop

Disappearing NYC: Glaser's Bake Shop is a documentary film that explores the history of a family-owned bakery in New York City, and its struggles to survive in the face of urban development and gentrification. The film focuses on the Glaser family, who have been running Glaser's Bake Shop for over a century, and the challenges they face as the neighborhood around them changes.

Herb Glaser, the current owner of the bakery, is the central figure of the film. He shares his memories of growing up in the bakery and watching the neighborhood evolve over the years. He talks about the history of the family business and its impact on the local community. He also discusses the challenges of running a small business in New York City, from rising rents to changing consumer tastes.

The film is a poignant reflection on the changing face of New York City. Through the story of Glaser's Bake Shop, we see how the city has transformed over the years, from a working-class neighborhood to a trendy destination for young professionals. We also see the toll that this transformation has taken on small businesses like Glaser's, which struggle to keep up with rising rents and competition from larger chains.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its depiction of the Glaser family. Through interviews with Herb Glaser and other family members, we get a sense of the deep roots that the family has in the community. We see how the family business has been passed down from generation to generation, and how it has become a symbol of the neighborhood itself.

The film also explores the history of Glaser's Bake Shop in the context of broader cultural trends. For example, it examines the role that Jewish bakeries like Glaser's have played in the history of New York City. It also touches on the rise of foodie culture and the changing tastes of consumers, which have made it harder for old-fashioned bakeries like Glaser's to thrive.

Throughout the film, we see the day-to-day operations of the bakery, from the early morning baking to the late-night cleanup. We see the care and attention that the bakers put into each loaf of bread and pastry, and the warmth and familiarity that they share with their customers. We also see the challenges of keeping the shop open in a rapidly changing city, from expensive equipment repairs to labor shortages.

Overall, Disappearing NYC: Glaser's Bake Shop is a powerful and moving tribute to a New York institution. It celebrates the deep roots that small businesses can have in their communities, and the struggle to keep those roots alive in the face of change. It also raises important questions about the future of New York City and the role that small businesses will play in shaping that future. For anyone who cares about the history and culture of New York City, this film is a must-see.