Best of 16 bagels in Philadelphia
Philadelphia, a city known for its rich history and delicious food scene, boasts a thriving bagel culture. Bagels in Philadelphia are a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a wide variety of flavors and toppings that cater to every palate. From classic cream cheese to innovative spreads, the bagel scene in Philly is a must-try for any food enthusiast.
- 1. Slice & Schmear
- 2. The Bagel Place
- 3. Philly Style Bagels
- 4. Knead Bagels
- 5. Cleo Bagels
- 6. Kismet Bagels - Fishtown
- 7. Philly Bagels - South Street
- 8. Philly Style Bagels Old City
- 9. Spread Bagelry
- 10. New York Bagel Bakery
- 11. Kismet Bagels - Rittenhouse Square
- 12. Fitzwater Street Philly Bagels
- 13. Passyunk Ave Bagels
- 14. Spread Bagelry
- 15. Bart's Bagels
- 16. Manhattan Bagel
1. Slice & Schmear
Popular local bagel shop with a cozy atmosphere

Customers have raved about the light and crispy texture of the bagels, which are even more delicious when toasted. The bagels' quality is so high that they are often in high demand, which can occasionally result in a limited selection. However, some customers believe the price of the bagels is too high, with some costing over $2.00, which they consider to be excessive for a bagel. Despite this, the bagels' quality is widely acknowledged as excellent.
In summary, customers have praised the excellent texture and taste of the bagels, which are even better toasted. The bagels' high demand can sometimes lead to limited availability. However, while the quality of the bagels is highly regarded, some customers believe the price is too high, with some costing over $2.00, which they consider to be excessive for a bagel.
2. The Bagel Place
Cozy neighborhood spot with outdoor seating

The Bagel Place is, in my opinion, the top bagel spot in Philadelphia. As a New York native, I place a high value on bagels, and I believe The Bagel Place's are superior. Their toasted bagels, in particular, are absolutely delicious.
The Bagel Place is a well-known establishment in Queen Village, known for its well-balanced bagels and delicious homemade spreads. Whether you prefer your bagel plain or topped with one of their creamy spreads, you're sure to enjoy the fresh taste and quality of their bagels.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
3. Philly Style Bagels
Local favorite, community hangout, all-day breakfast

The sandwiches I had were incredibly delicious, so much so that I forgot to take a photo before diving in. I tried both the Classic Lox and the Tuna Sandwich, and while I slightly preferred the Lox, a friend's Lox #2 has also piqued my interest. The bagels were fantastic, and I appreciate their commitment to donating unsold items.
My experience with the sandwiches was overwhelmingly positive. I tried the Lox and cream cheese on an everything bagel, and it was so delicious that I am still thinking about it two weeks later. The walk-up window had no wait on a Thursday morning, making it a convenient and tasty option.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
4. Knead Bagels
Offers vegan and gluten-free bagel options

The bagels at this establishment are known for their simplicity, dense and doughy texture. One popular choice is to enjoy them with the house-made scallion lime cream cheese. Our group of people quite enjoyed the bagel sandwiches, with the exception of an 11-year-old who found the mustard to be too spicy.
Overall, the bagels are a hit amongst our group with their delicious and unique scallion lime cream cheese. However, those who are sensitive to spicy flavors may want to be cautious with the mustard used in the sandwiches. Despite this minor issue, the satisfying and hearty texture of the bagels made for a positive dining experience.
5. Cleo Bagels
Cozy neighborhood spot, popular for breakfast and lunch

Cleo, a skilled artisan, approaches baking chewy bagels and bialys with great care and creativity, transforming them into culinary masterpieces rather than merely treating them as a mundane source of sustenance. Her passion for the craft is evident in the delightful and unique sandwich options she offers, using the freshest ingredients to elevate each bite to new heights of flavor and satisfaction.
6. Kismet Bagels - Fishtown
Local favorite with unique flavors

Kismet Bagels offers a delicious vegan alternative to cream cheese called 'schmear' that is so good, customers can purchase it in tubs to use at home. When it comes to the bagels themselves, they are best enjoyed un-toasted to fully appreciate their quality.
Kismet Bagels' bagels are known for their excellent texture - they are chewy, but not tough. The everything seasoning is generously applied to both sides of the bagel, adding an extra burst of flavor to each bite.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
7. Philly Bagels - South Street
Cozy neighborhood spot with outdoor seating

Our new local bagel shop offers an extensive menu with approximately 100 different combinations to choose from. They operate a second location near 17th and JFK, which transforms into a family-friendly brunch and gaming spot on weekends.
The bagels and coffee served at this establishment have received widespread acclaim for their taste, variety, and quick service. However, some guests suggest foregoing the coffee and focusing solely on the high-quality bagels.
8. Philly Style Bagels Old City
Historic location with unique decor

The classic lox bagel is a highly recommended breakfast or lunch option, known for its fresh ingredients and great flavor. The dish features a bagel filled with smoked salmon, cream cheese, red onion, and capers, creating a delicious combination that is sure to satisfy.
As for the bagels themselves, they are absolutely delicious. With a perfectly chewy interior and a crispy exterior, these bagels are the real deal. The attention to detail in the baking process is evident, resulting in a high-quality bagel that is perfect for any sandwich or as a standalone snack.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
9. Spread Bagelry
Wood-fired bagels, vegan & gluten-free options

The bagels from this establishment are renowned for their exceptional taste and texture, surpassing thelevel of their North American competitors. Two specific elements that stood out were the sriracha smoked Gouda spread and the perfectly cooked bacon. Although whole wheat bagels were unavailable during this visit, the regular everything bagel was also highly impressive.
This establishment's bagels are widely recognized for their superior taste and texture, setting them apart from other North American competitors. The sriracha smoked Gouda spread and bacon were particularly noteworthy, although whole wheat bagels were unfortunately unavailable at the time. Despite this, the regular everything bagel continued to deliver an exceptional experience.
10. New York Bagel Bakery
Philadelphia's premier spot for New York-style bagels

New York Bagel Bakery is known for serving high-quality bagels in the Philadelphia area. Their bagels are renowned for their perfect balance of light dough and good texture. The bakery's lox is a customer favorite, with generous portions and expert preparation. In addition to their bagels and lox, New York Bagel Bakery also offers a selection of other baked goods, including cream cheese, muffins, and homemade bread.
The bakery also provides catering services, making it an excellent option for events and gatherings. Whether you're in the mood for a classic bagel with cream cheese or something more elaborate, New York Bagel Bakery has something for everyone. With their delicious baked goods and exceptional service, New York Bagel Bakery is a standout destination for anyone in the Philadelphia area looking for a great bagel.
11. Kismet Bagels - Rittenhouse Square
Unique flavors, popular spot, and cozy atmosphere

The staff at this establishment is exceptional, with a great and friendly demeanor that contributes to a warm and welcoming atmosphere. All employees are eager to help and provide excellent service.
The food offered is expensive, but the quality makes it worth the high cost. While the portions may be on the smaller side, the delicious and well-prepared dishes make for a satisfying meal.
12. Fitzwater Street Philly Bagels
Cozy neighborhood spot with friendly service

The bagels at this establishment are truly delicious, attracting customers who end up becoming regulars. The friendly service adds to the positive atmosphere, making it a place where people look forward to visiting frequently.
The bagels are freshly made, with the lox being a particular highlight. The quality of the ingredients is excellent, resulting in everything being delicious. The delivery service is also efficient, ensuring that customers receive their orders in a timely manner. As a result, the likelihood of ordering from this place again is high due to the overall satisfying experience.
13. Passyunk Ave Bagels
Known for their authentic New York-style bagels

Passyunk Ave Bagels is a must-visit for any bagel sandwich lover. Their bagels are fresh and have a perfect combination of a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior, reminiscent of classic New York-style bagels. The ingredients used in their sandwiches are also top-notch, with generous portions and careful preparation ensuring a delicious meal.
The sandwich selection at Passyunk Ave Bagels is impressive, offering a variety of options to please any palate. From classic choices like plain or everything bagels with cream cheese and lox, to more unique offerings like the "Eggzy" with bacon, egg, and cheese, there is something for everyone. The care and attention put into each sandwich is evident, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience.
14. Spread Bagelry
Hand-rolled bagels, local ingredients

The bagels at this establishment were delightful, although the lengthy 30-minute wait reduced my overall satisfaction. In contrast, the iced latte I ordered was disappointing, which has discouraged me from purchasing coffee here again.
On a more positive note, this location in University City is an excellent choice. I have visited their other establishment on 20th street and was equally impressed. The food here is delicious, and the atmosphere is enjoyable. I highly recommend giving it a try.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
15. Bart's Bagels
Small batch baking, local ingredients

The salad options at this establishment are highly regarded, featuring a variety of fresh and delicious ingredients. Popular choices include the smoked whitefish salad, chicken salad lettuce and tomato with bacon, and the everything bagel. Guests consistently comment on the freshness of the food, with no complaints recorded in this area.
In fact, the only request some guests have is for the restaurant to relocate to their basement, suggesting a strong desire to have the dining experience and delicious food always within arm's reach. This seems to be a half-joking, half-serious suggestion, reflecting the high level of satisfaction and enjoyment experienced by patrons.
16. Manhattan Bagel
Cozy atmosphere and catering service

The article describes a chain location in a neighborhood known for its excellent bakeries and the availability of popular coffee brand, La Colombe. The chain is mentioned as a dependable spot for getting an egg-on-bagel breakfast. Another breakfast option offered is an avocado on bagel, which is prepared by simply smashing the avocado on the bagel with no additional seasoning or flavorings.
In summary, the article highlights a chain location offering basic breakfast options in a neighborhood filled with bakeries and specialty coffee. Specifically, the chain's egg-on-bagel is mentioned as reliable, while the avocado on bagel is prepared in a straightforward manner with no additional seasoning.