It’s hard to find a more iconic New York food than bagels. They were first popularized after World War II among Jewish communities but have gradually become one of the most popular New York foods. Bagels are certainly a craft here, and authentic bagels will be hand-rolled, boiled, and then baked. Every shop serves classic options, but most have expanded options to include innovative flavors, spreads, and toppings. New Yorkers can get pretty passionate about their bagels (well about anything really…) but the #1 bagel rule is to never get it toasted!!
Are you in the mood for a bagel? Buckle up, we’re sharing the 9 best bagels in New York City!
1. Russ & Daughters
Russ & Daughters is a family-operated Jewish deli that has been around since 1920. For over 100 years, they’ve occupied the same location on the Lower East Side although, over the years, they’ve opened more locations. They make impeccable bagels served with spreads, lox, and caviar. They also have bialys, babkes, and other baked goods. If you’re not living in New York and want to experience a true New York bagel, Russ & Daughters ships nationwide!
2. Frankel’s
This is arguably the most popular bagel spot in Williamsburg (but deserves a trip even from other boroughs). The folks at Frankel’s get the classic Jewish deli menu down perfectly. On their menu, you’ll find classic bagels and spreads, but their sandwiches are where the magic happens. Try the #1 (pastrami salmon, dill cucumbers, and scallion cream cheese), the pastrami egg & cheese, or the whitefish on a bagel. And don’t forget a latke!
P.S. Here is Bon Appetit’s Molly Baz and Alex Delany try everything on the menu at Frankel’s.
3. Absolute Bagels
This is a simple, no-frills bagel shop, but that doesn’t matter to the line that seems to always be gathered along the sidewalk. The bagels at Absolute are straightforward but so delicious. They turn them out so quickly you’re likely to get a hot bagel straight from the oven! Grab your sandwich and enjoy it at Central Park nearby.
4. Black Seed Bagels
These came in hot on the New York food scene with some controversy. The Montreal-style bagels are boiled in water with a touch of honey and then baked in a brick oven resulting in a sweeter, lighter bagel. Paired with interesting house-made spreads like hot honey, sunflower herb, and tofu scallion, the folks at Black Seed have proven that they know what they’re doing. The textures and flavors mesh perfectly, making this a favorite bagel spot for many New Yorkers.
5. Tompkin’s Square Bagels
If you’re somebody who likes to get creative with flavors and combinations, this is the place for you. Tompkin’s Square Bagels are a favorite for East Village residents. They’ve got the basics down pat but also keep diners intrigued with unique bagels (like french toast or pumpkin) and spreads (like scallion with bacon, chocolate chip cookie dough, birthday cake, and pear). This bagel shop is conveniently located next to Tompkin’s Square Park. And, in case you haven’t heard, it’s Timothée Chalamet’s favorite spot for a bagel.
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6. Zabar’s
The original Zabar’s was a smoked fish shop opened in 1934, which is still in business and a go-to for New Yorkers for fine fish. A bagel shop was a natural step for the brand, and their bagel shops have gained a loyal fan base. Zabar’s has bagel shops dotted around the city, including Times Square, Bryant Park, and downtown areas. It’s a reliable spot for great bagels, spreads, and of course, fish.
7. Bo’s Bagels
Harlem locals asked for a good bagel shop and received Bo’s Bagels in 2017, which is the most popular bagel shop in Harlem and a strong contender for best bagel in New York City. All bagels are made in-house the old-fashioned way: fermented for 24 hours, boiled, and then baked. They’re crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Pair that with a classic spread, or let your imagination run wild with the exciting options you’ll find on the menu. The bialy is as popular as the bagel so give those a try too!
8. Best Bagel & Coffee
Best Bagel & Coffee is located right near Penn Station, making it a perfect spot for travelers to get a good New York bagel. The bagels are very large and there are lots of options to choose from. Although you really can’t go wrong with anything you choose. They have breakfast sandwiches and deli sandwiches, making it a fitting spot any time of day.
9. Murray’s Bagels
Murray’s Bagels is a West Village classic that has been in business for 25 years. They’ve mastered the chewy bagel and offer a seemingly infinite variety of spreads and toppings for a sandwich any time of day. For a breakfast sandwich, try a classic bagel with spread, a Nova Lox sandwich, or a bacon, egg & cheese. For lunch, try their pastrami, fish salad, or deli meat on a sandwich.
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That concludes this guide to the 9 best bagels in New York City. Which ones have you tried? Are there any you’d add to this list?
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