A: Bialys are large, yeast-based onion rolls somewhat similar to bagels in texture but lighter, with a depression in the center where a hole would normally be; they come topped with finely chopped onion bits that have been browned slightly and then baked on. They're named for the Polish city of Bialystok and are Jewish in origin. I know of only one place in town that carries them: The Bagel Store (942 South Monaco Parkway, 303-388-2648). The bialys are made on the premises and cost 60 cents each; the Bagel Store is open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
As for tofu-scallion cream cheese, the closest I can come is the spreadable Soya Kaas soy-based cream cheese sold at any of the Wild Oats or Alfalfa's markets in the Denver metro area. Eight-ounce tubs of plain or garlic-and-herb sell for $3.29 each, and vegetable goes for $3.89. Whole Foods in Boulder (2301 30th; 303-545-6611) carries both the plain and the garlic-and-herb for $3.19 each.
