Must Try Bagels in New York City
Curated by Hypemaps Team
Synonymous with New York City, bagels are an essential part of the New York experience. Whether you prefer your bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon or piled high with deli meats, there are countless bagel shops serving up the delicious bread roll. In this list, we will explore some of the best bagel shops in New York City.
Serving Harlem the bagels for years now, Bo’s Bagels is know for its crisp crusts and chewy interiors. The textural contrast is thanks to the shop's traditional cooking method that involves a 24-hour fermentation, brief boil, and bake. All bagel variations are served with classic spreads or as part of satisfying sandwiches.
2.
Zabar's
Opened in 1934, Zabar's remains a family business that original served smoked fish along with its now beloved bagels. Amidst all the delectable offerings at Zabar's is its signature malt barley flour bagels, a favorite amongst locals. Serving the Upper West Side, Zabar's features ample seating in its 20,000 square-feet space.
A true institution, dating back to 1914, Russ & Daughters is known for its smoked fish, including Nova Scotia salmon, sturgeon, and whitefish served with fresh bagels. Enjoyed by generations in the Lower East Side, the shop has also expanded with a café and a restaurant in Manhattan.
Largely associated with contemporary bagel culture in New York City, Sadelle's is known for its modern take on traditional Jewish cuisine. Focussing on bagels, smoked fish, matzo ball soup, latkes, baked goods, and more, the restaurant is a popular location, so head early if you don't want to wait.
A popular destination for travellers, Tompkins Square Bagels, located in the East Village of Manhattan, has become known for its hand-rolled bagels. Aside from its classic plain, sesame, and everything flavors, the shop offers more unique takes like jalapeno cheddar and cinnamon raisin walnut. Not to mention a variety of cream cheese spreads, smoked fish, and sandwich options.
More of a local legend than a tourist destination, Utopia Bagel – named after its bustling Utopia Parkway location – has been the morning go-to for its Flushing/Whitestone residents for decades. Stick with the classics – toasted Everything bagel with Lox, or a good ol' sausage egg and cheese, ketchup optional.
Brooklyn Bagel & Company might be considered the "newcomer" to the neighborhoods of Manhattan and Astoria – confusingly not in Brooklyn however – but they are easily one of the better Bagels in the city, hands down. Get here early or after breakfast though, especially the 8th Ave location to avoid the 9am workforce.
Shelsky's is more of your "NY deli" than a dedicated bagel shop, but you'd be missing out if you're judging books by covers. If its your first time, definitely order your sandwich with your choice of smoked fish – it's their specialty and honestly what everyone goes to them for.
Ask any native New Yorker about bagels and inevitably someone will bring up Ess-A-Bagel, a staple for almost 50 years. Their portions are great, their staff are friendly, but don't be surprised if you end up waiting in line for longer than you'd like – it's popular for a reason.
The location of this shop on West 35th Street in New York City means its pretty touristy, but don't let that deter you from giving it a try – the service is quick and well worth it. While they serve a range of bagels, sandwiches, and breakfast options, go for the NY favorite BECSPK (bacon, egg, cheese, salt, pepper, ketchup) on an Everything or sesame bagel.