The 24 best bagels in New York City
Bagels in New York City are a beloved culinary tradition, famous for their distinctive chewy exterior and soft interior. These rings of dough, boiled then baked, come in various flavors and varieties, satisfying locals and tourists alike. From classic plain to poppy seed, Bagels in New York City offer a unique and delicious dining experience.
- 1. Absolute Bagels
- 2. BO's Bagels
- 3. Murray's Bagels
- 4. H&H Bagels
- 5. Frankel's Delicatessen & Appetizing
- 6. Utopia Bagels
- 7. Riverdale Bagels
- 8. Bagel Oasis
- 9. Baz Bagel
- 10. Ess-a-Bagel
- 11. Zabar's
- 12. Barney Greengrass
- 13. Bagelworks
- 14. Bagel Hole
- 15. Orwashers Bakery
- 16. Dough Doughnuts
- 17. Best Bagel & Coffee
- 18. Empire Bagels
- 19. Baker’s Dozen Bagels
- 20. Court Street Bagels
- 21. Leo's Bagels
- 22. Kossar's Bagels & Bialys
- 23. Sadelle's
- 24. Ess-a-Bagel Time Out Market New York
1. Absolute Bagels
Hand-rolled bagels made fresh daily

The best bagels I've ever had can be described as having a flawless texture. These bagels have a satisfying crunch on the outside, but once you bite into them, they reveal a soft and chewy center.
In addition to their incredible texture, these bagels also have an unbeatable flavor. Every bite is packed with a rich and savory taste that is simply unmatched by any other bagel I've tried. Whether you prefer your bagels plain, toasted, or loaded with toppings, these bagels are sure to exceed your expectations.
2. BO's Bagels
Popular student and local hangout with outdoor seating

BO's Bagels, located at 235 W 116th St in New York, is a popular spot known for its affordably priced and delicious bagels. This establishment is a must-visit for anyone seeking a classic New York bagel experience. Their bagel sandwiches are generously filled with ingredients like egg, sausage, and bacon.
The photo and rating reviews for BO's Bagels reveal positive feedback from customers, highlighting the tasty bagels and the satisfying bagel sandwiches. The location's hours, phone number, address, and map are all available online, making it easy to plan your visit. Whether you're a local or a tourist, BO's Bagels is worth checking out for a satisfying meal.
3. Murray's Bagels
Iconic bagel shop serving New Yorkers since 1967

The restaurant in question is one of my favorite places to eat, known for its excellent food and service. However, during a recent visit, I was disappointed with the order I received. I had ordered a plain bagel, but instead received an everything bagel that was overly soft and difficult to eat. To make matters worse, the bacon that was supposed to be included was placed in the middle of the bagel, causing it to fall off and making the entire meal a messy and unsatisfying experience.
This was a disappointing experience, as I had expected to receive a high-quality bagel that was prepared with care. The mistake with my order and the poor execution of the meal was a waste of money, and detracted from my overall enjoyment of the restaurant. It's important for establishments to pay attention to details when taking orders, as small errors like this can have a big impact on the customer's experience. I hope that future visits to this restaurant will be more positive, and that they will take steps to ensure that orders are fulfilled accurately and with the same level of quality that I have come to expect from them.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
4. H&H Bagels
Iconic NY bagel shop, 24/7 service

The bagels we consumed were incredibly fresh and delicious. Two types were chosen: an "everything" bagel and another with classic cream cheese and salmon. The combination of freshly toasted bagels and flavorful toppings resulted in a perfect start to the day.
Despite not being as garlicky or onion-studded as ideally desired, the "everything" bagel was still enjoyable. However, the true standout was the second bagel. The freshness of the lox, combined with the tangy taste of capers, juicy tomatoes, and smooth cream cheese schmear, created a truly delightful eating experience, pleasing the taste buds in a highly satisfying manner.
5. Frankel's Delicatessen & Appetizing
Family-owned business operating since 1929

Frankel's Deli brings a modern twist to the traditional Jewish deli, offering delicious lox and pastrami sandwiches that are carefully crafted and visually appealing. Although on the pricier side, the quality of the food justifies the cost.
At noon, a medium-sized bagel is served fresh and warm, with a soft interior and a slight crackle on bite. The toppings are spread evenly on both sides, with a moderate density and a slightly bottom-heavy distribution.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
6. Utopia Bagels
Friendly service and cozy atmosphere

In this location, the bagels are a rarity, not frequently found elsewhere. They are reminiscent of the bagels from my childhood, the ones my grandparents would bring every weekend, and the standard to which I compare all other bagels. These bagels are large, soft, and doughy, and should not be toasted until they become stale.
Notably, this place is the only one known to offer exceptional French toast bagels.
7. Riverdale Bagels
Spacious seating, friendly service, and free Wi-Fi

The bagels at this establishment, while not reaching perfection, do not fail to satisfy. The prices are reasonable, and the shop is kept in pristine condition. The staff is consistently competent, displaying friendly and efficient service even when the shop is crowded.
The bagels have a delightful texture, with a crispy exterior and a chewy interior. The spreads are abundant and generously apportioned. The cream cheese options are a particular strength, featuring unique flavors such as blueberry that taste like a frozen dessert.
8. Bagel Oasis
Family-owned business since 1994

Bagel Oasis is highly regarded for its friendly, quick, and efficient service. Customers consistently praise the quality and speed of service they receive at this establishment.
Bagel Oasis is a beloved institution, renowned for its freshly baked bagels, which are especially enjoyable when served warm. The shop has a strong following among both locals and visitors, who appreciate the high-quality offerings.
9. Baz Bagel
Iconic NY bagel shop, cozy atmosphere, friendly service

The bagel, specifically the Pumpernickel Everything, was a delight with a generous serving of cream cheese. The onions in the bagel were abundant, complementing the smoked salmon which was unfortunately just average.
The quality of the everything bagel was impressive, with the right level of toasting that added to its fresh taste. It can be said to surpass the quality of Pick a Bagel and is more comparable to the esteemed Ess-a-Bagel.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
10. Ess-a-Bagel
Iconic NY bagel shop since 1976, famous for variety and quality

We placed an order for bagels to pick up early in the morning. The bagels were enjoyable, but they were served cold, which was disappointing. The service we received was less than satisfactory, as the woman who served us seemed extremely rude and unhappy with her job or life. It is important to note that it was still early in the morning, and such behavior is not acceptable towards customers.
On a more positive note, the cream cheese selection at the shop is exceptional. I particularly enjoy their chive cream cheese, which I often have with lox or nova scotia, a tomato, and red onion. Their fruit cream cheeses, including strawberry and blueberry, are also delicious. I wasn't a fan of fruit cream cheese before, but this establishment has changed my mind. Their unique and high-quality offerings make up for the lackluster service experienced during our pick-up.
11. Zabar's
Established in 1934, family-owned, traditional NY experience

Zabar's is a well-known specialty food store located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City. They are famous for their high-quality selection of lox, bagels, and coffee, which has made them a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The bagels at Zabar's are always fresh and delicious, and their coffee is excellent, making it the perfect start to the day.
The store's knowledgeable and friendly staff are always ready to help customers choose the best products to suit their tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a classic bagel with cream cheese and lox or something more adventurous, Zabar's has got you covered. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or to stock up on gourmet food and supplies. With its exceptional quality and customer service, it's no wonder that Zabar's has been a Manhattan institution for over 80 years.
12. Barney Greengrass
Established in 1908, historic New York deli

The food quality at this establishment appears to be mixed. On one hand, the salmon pastrami is described as delicious and the bagels as fresh and tasty. The potato pancakes also received positive comments. On the other hand, the overall experience was disappointing due to the high prices. A sandwich, two bagels, a latke, and two coffees cost a shocking $106.
It's clear that the standout dish is the salmon pastrami, which was singled out for its mouthwatering qualities. The freshness and taste of the bagels were also noteworthy. The potato pancakes, or latke, were likely a satisfying side dish. However, the high prices may deter some customers from fully enjoying the meal. It's unfortunate that the positive aspects of the food were overshadowed by the cost.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
13. Bagelworks
Friendly service, cozy atmosphere, local favorite

Ordering from this establishment always results in greatness. Their everything bagel is a standout, featuring a generous layer of everything seasoning on both the top and bottom of the bagel. The bagels have a consistently solid crust and soft interior, making for a satisfying texture in every bite.
In addition to their high-quality bagels, this establishment offers a excellent selection of spreads. The lox spread is a particular favorite, adding an extra layer of flavor to the bagels. Furthermore, their service is fast, ensuring that customers can enjoy their orders in a timely manner.
14. Bagel Hole
Family-owned and operated since 1985

Bagel Hole is a local bagel shop known for its small size and delicious bagels. The bagels have a distinctive crunchy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. While the shop may lack in customer service, the bagels themselves are worth the visit.
The bagels offered at Bagel Hole come in a smaller size, but they are packed with flavor. Both the plain and mixed bagels were enjoyed and were still warm when served. Overall, the quality of the bagels is excellent and makes up for any shortcomings in customer service.
15. Orwashers Bakery
Family-owned bakery since 1904, offers gluten-free and vegan options

Orwashers, a popular bakery, offers excellent bagels for breakfast that are delivered fresh and warm upon ordering. The bagels have a fresh and chewy texture that makes them a delight to eat.
I highly recommend Orwashers for their fantastic bagels that come in a fresh and chewy texture. Their homemade cream cheese is the perfect companion to the bagels, making each bite a treat.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
16. Dough Doughnuts
Collaborates with local businesses for unique flavors

The hibiscus stood out as my favorite during the journey, offering a unique tangy sweetness that delightfully coats the tongue. On the other hand, the sophomore year introduced me to a delicious dulce de leche doughnut. It was chewy with a perfect glaze, making it a memorable treat.
Both the hibiscus and the dulce de leche doughnut left a lasting impression. The hibiscus's tangy sweetness and the doughnut's chewy texture with a sweet glaze showcased the variety and delight that can be found in culinary experiences. These two memorable flavors highlight the importance of trying new things and appreciating the unique tastes they offer.
17. Best Bagel & Coffee
Iconic NYC bagel shop with a loyal following

The famous bagels at this establishment are highly reminiscent of the classic NY style, with a puffy and chewy texture, and a subtle sweetness. A variety of delicious fillings can be added, such as jalapeño cream cheese and grilled chicken with mozzarella. Unfortunately, some customers have reported issues with certain ingredients, such as cold bacon, which may detract from the overall quality of the sandwich.
In addition to their impressive bagels, this establishment also offers a variety of bagel sandwiches with different options for fillings. Customers can choose from selections such as salmon and honey turkey for their sandwich. While many reviewers have praised the freshness and quality of the ingredients, others have noted issues with additional charges for extra toppings, which may affect the overall value and satisfaction of the meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
18. Empire Bagels
Family-owned and operated since 1990

Empire Bagels is a popular local bakery, well-known for its traditional and freshly baked bagels. The flavors offered are diverse, providing a wide selection for customers. The bakery's reputation extends beyond its locality, with some customers claiming it offers the best bagels in the Bronx, if not the entirety of the five boroughs of New York City.
Two important factors that set Empire Bagels apart are the freshness of their bagels and the variety of flavors they offer. Their commitment to using traditional baking methods results in a consistently high-quality product. The bakery's reputation as one of the best in the Bronx, and possibly the five boroughs, is a testament to its popularity and the quality of its bagels.
19. Baker’s Dozen Bagels
Rotating selection of unique and seasonal bagels

I recently enjoyed a delicious tuna bagel sandwich with a great crunch and soft interior texture. The leaf lettuce was a nice touch, and the tuna salad had a perfect amount of mayo and no celery. The sandwich was absolutely delightful.
The establishment's bagel sandwiches are known for their great taste. The bagels themselves are very good, with a chewy and fresh texture and flavorful cream cheese. However, there is room for improvement when it comes to the toppings on the everything bagels. They are a bit skimpy, and by the time the bagel is cut, a good amount of the topping comes off. It's a small suggestion, but could enhance the overall experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
20. Court Street Bagels
Friendly service, cozy atmosphere

This city's bagel scene has a clear standout: a shop known for serving some of the best bagels around. The bagels are the star of the show, with their perfection making the shop a neighborhood favorite. The establishment offers a range of options, from classic cream cheese to hearty sandwich choices. Despite the popularity, the line moves quickly and efficiently. It's important to note that they only accept cash as payment.
This bagel shop is truly impressive, offering a variety of options for any time of day. Whether you're in the mood for a simple plain bagel or a more substantial lunch option loaded with meat, this shop has something for everyone. The shop's popularity is evident, with a line of customers outside even in rainy weather. This level of dedication from the neighborhood speaks volumes about the quality of the bagels and the overall experience of visiting the shop.
21. Leo's Bagels
Unique flavors, local favorite, all-day breakfast

Leo's Bagels is renowned for having some of the best bagels in the city. A standout option from their menu is the whole wheat everything bagel, which is delicious and satisfying. In addition to trying their excellent bagels, I also opted to sample their lox, and I was not disappointed.
If you're looking for a breakfast option to brighten up your mornings in FiDi, Leo’s Bagels' egg and cheese sandwich is a top choice. The high-quality ingredients and fresh taste make it a reliable and satisfying meal to start the day.
22. Kossar's Bagels & Bialys
One of the oldest bagel shops in NYC

I have a love for both bagels and bialys, but often find it challenging to locate bialys. Recently, I ordered some from Kossar's, which offers several types for shipment, with sun-dried tomato and onion being my favorites.
Kossar's is my favorite bagel shop to date, and it is conveniently located near my workplace in the Lower East Side.
23. Sadelle's
Elegant atmosphere and delicious brunch options

The bagels and lox from this establishment are delicious, although they come with a high price tag. We tried the everything 2.0 bagels, which were topped with everything seasoning and fennel, as well as the house salmon and whitefish salad. The fish was plentiful, fresh, and full of flavor, making the cost worth it for a satisfying meal. The whitefish salad, in particular, featured large chunks of fish, adding to the overall quality of the dish.
Despite the delicious flavors, the high prices of the bagels and lox might be a deterrent for some customers. The combination of two everything 2.0 bagels, house salmon, and whitefish salad added up quickly. While the food was certainly worth the cost, the prices may be out of reach for some individuals looking for a more affordable option. However, for those willing to splurge, the delightful flavors and quality of ingredients make this a recommended choice.
24. Ess-a-Bagel Time Out Market New York
Iconic NYC bagel shop located in Time Out Market

Ess-a-Bagel is a well-regarded bagel shop known for its delicious offerings. One popular choice is the everything bagel with scallion cream cheese. The high rating of 4.2 stars indicates customer satisfaction and makes it a favorite spot for breakfast or lunch. The convenience of delivery service adds to its appeal for morning meals.
I can personally vouch for the deliciousness of the everything bagel with scallion cream cheese. As someone who enjoys visiting Ess-a-Bagel, I highly recommend this combination. Regardless of whether you choose to dine in or have your meal delivered, Ess-a-Bagel is sure to satisfy your cravings for a tasty bagel.