When it comes to breakfast perfection, nothing compares to the best bagels in New York City. Known for their crispy outside and chewy inside, the best bagels in New York City have become an essential part of the local culture and morning routine. Whether you visit Manhattan or Brooklyn, you’ll find countless bakeries serving up the best bagels in New York City, topped with fresh cream cheese, smoked salmon, or classic butter. Tourists and locals alike line up early in the morning to sample the best bagels in New York City, where every bite tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship. From iconic delis to hidden neighborhood gems, discovering the best bagels in New York City is a delicious journey you won’t forget.
Best Bagels in New York City
New York City is known for a lot of things, and bagels are definitely up there. Growing up in New Jersey, I was always surrounded by great bagel shops. I definitely took it lightly. For a long time, I had no idea that this incredible carbohydrate was so hard to find outside of my little bubble, i.e. the tri-state area. I think New York City has better bagels than New Jersey—sorry for my family and my city’s bagel shops.
One of my first major food quests in this city was finding the best bagels. Despite having hundreds of shops all over the borough, I did my best to try as many as I could. I’m still on my journey to try them all, but so far, I’ve been to over 70 shops. One of the most common questions I get is what my favorite bagel is, so I thought I’d type up some of my favorites for you all. ;)
Side note- I think everyone should get more than one bagel. At least 1 savory and 1 sweet. Eat with friends, family or alone, no one is judging you!!!!! You shouldn't even toast your New York City bagel. A fresh bagel will be crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. And yes, I make the rules, this is my food blog. Okay, let's discuss.
01. Tompkins
I love Tompkins! The thing they do really well is their French toast bagel and mixed berry cream cheese (if they have any). Their other bagels are always strong overall! I’ve seen some inconsistencies between their stores so be careful. Oh! And they have a sandwich called the Caitlin???? It’s not just named after me and I’ll probably never play it? But the funny thing is it’s spelled the same as my name haha.
What to get: Any bagel but definitely a French toast bagel for something sweet!
Price: $5+
Locations: 2 East Village and 1 Union Square location
02. Utopia
A quintessential NYC bagel shop since the 80s! They only had 1 store in Whitestone, Queens but recently expanded into Manhattan. After going to both stores multiple times I can confirm that this is a solid place to get a bagel. Their cream cheese is delicious too. Please have the Oreo cream cheese. You will definitely have to wait but in my experience it goes by quickly.
1 of the two stores in Manhattan I think is a must-see when visiting!
What to get: Literally anything.
Price: $5+
Location: Whitestone, Queens and Midtown, Manhattan
03. Shelsky's
I admit that the reason Shelsky's is on this list is because it's a bagel. Soft. Pretzel. Bagel. I don't know what magic they use in this but it's one of my favorite carbs in the world. I love bagels and soft pretzels so it's a match made.
What to get: Pretzel bagel and I'll probably get some smoked fish too if you like that.
Price: $5+
Location: Cobble Hill, Brooklyn
04. Liberty
Besides Utopia, there’s another bagel shop I’d always recommend to anyone visiting! I think they do a great job of providing a classic NYC bagel experience. The outside is crunchy but the inside is soft and fluffy. If that appeals to you, the OG Rainbow Bagel is also here. It’s literally just food coloring, but I swear it tastes sweet.
What you’ll get: A classic bagel, a rainbow bagel, and some fun cream cheese.
Price: $5+
Location: Midtown + a few others around town.
05. Baker’s Dozen Bagel
One of my favorite classic bagels. Really great place for a simple order. No frills here!! Just quality bagels. I think they might have my favorite everything bagel in town?
What you’ll get: Everything bagel!!!!!
Price: $5+
Location: Ridgewood, Queens
06. Absolute
The King of Bagels on UWS!!! Absolute is a well-known shop that has been around since the 90s. It’s the perfect bagel spot for anyone who lives or has lived in the suburbs. The bagels are fresh and the whole experience is absolutely no-frills. Every time I’ve been there, the line has wrapped around the block.
What to get: Any classic bagel and sizzle combo.
Price: $3+
Location: UWS
07. Pop Up
Oh so viral and popular pop up! People can hate all they want, say it’s not a classic NYC bagel shop, but to me, I’m just worried about the carb flavor. Pop Up has never let me down. They have a different model than other shops so be prepared. You have to order their whole bagels in bulk and the rotating sherbet flavors come on the side. You won't find sandwiches either, but I don't think they're missed here.
What to get: Their bagel and special CC mix. If you're feeling fancy, get some trout roe.
Price: $12+ but probably more depending on how many smears or extras you want.
Locations: West Village (OG), UES, and UWS.
08. Brooklyn Bagel
I wish there was more to say about this place, but they do everything right. They season all of their bagels really well, which I really like. If they have them, get the cannoli cream cheese. They have multiple locations in both Manhattan and Queens, so I don't think you can go wrong here.
What to get: Anything
Price: $5+
Location: Greenwich, Chelsea, Astoria
09. Inside the Bagels
Come here for the big fluffy bagels and Korean breakfast sandwiches. The owner is a gem and his creations are even better. I recommend the beef bulgogi egg and cheese or the DAP (Dank as Pork) sandwich. Kimchi, spicy mayo, bagel, everything is delicious!!!!! And if you're feeling fancy, get the Ben's balls (arancini).
What to get: Their Korean breakfast sammies!!! SMB or DAP.
Price: $5+
Location: Astoria
10. Middle Village Bagels
While I was deep into my bagel review I was getting messages from people who were super excited about Middle Village Bagels. Once I got there I realized why!! Full of locals only. Take it to a nearby park and enjoy.
What you get: Everything and cinnamon raisin.
Price: $4+
Location: Middle Village, Queens
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FAQ – Best Bagels in New York City
Question 1: Where can you find the best bagels in New York City?
Answer 1: You can find the best bagels in New York City at famous places like Ess-a-Bagel, Russ & Daughters, Absolute Bagels, Tompkins Square Bagels, and Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company - each offering their own unique flavor and texture.
Question 2: What sets New York bagels apart from other bagels?
Answer 2: The best bagels in New York City are known for their dense, chewy interior and slightly crispy crust. This texture comes from boiling the dough before baking and using New York’s mineral-rich water, which gives them a distinct flavor.
Question 3: What are the most popular bagel flavors in New York City?
Answer 3: Among the best bagels in New York City, the most popular flavors include plain, everything, sesame, poppy seed, onion, and cinnamon raisin. The “Everything Bagel” is particularly beloved for its delicious blend of spices.
Question 4: What are the best toppings for a New York bagel?
Answer 4: Classic toppings for the best bagels in New York City include cream cheese, smoked salmon (lox), capers, onion, tomato, and even egg or avocado for a modern twist.
Question 5: Can I find vegan or gluten-free bagels in New York City?
Answer 5: Yes! Many bakeries that serve the best bagels in New York City now include vegan spreads and gluten-free options that cater to all dietary preferences.
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