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Secret Spots For The Best Bagels In New York City

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by Rayshell Esser

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New York City is famous for many things, but bagels top the list for food lovers. With so many options, finding the best bagels can feel overwhelming. Whether you crave a classic plain bagel with cream cheese or something more adventurous like an everything bagel with lox, NYC has it all. From hidden gems in quiet neighborhoods to bustling bakeries in the heart of Manhattan, each spot offers a unique twist on this beloved treat. Ready to discover where locals get their bagel fix? Let’s dive into the secret spots that serve the best bagels in New York City.

Secret Spots for the Best Bagels in New York City

New York City is famous for its bagels. But where do you find the best ones? Here are some hidden gems that locals swear by.

Hidden Bagel Shops in Manhattan

Manhattan is bustling with bagel shops, but some are true hidden treasures. These spots offer delicious bagels without the long lines.

  1. Ess-a-Bagel: Located in Midtown, this shop has been serving up chewy, flavorful bagels since 1976. Try their everything bagel with scallion cream cheese.

  2. Tompkins Square Bagels: Found in the East Village, this place is known for its creative bagel flavors and generous toppings. Their rainbow bagel is a must-try.

  3. Leo’s Bagels: Nestled in the Financial District, Leo’s offers a wide variety of bagels and spreads. Their lox bagel is a crowd favorite.

Brooklyn's Best Kept Bagel Secrets

Brooklyn has a rich bagel culture with many hidden spots that offer some of the best bagels in the city. Here are a few you shouldn't miss.

  1. Bagel Hole: Located in Park Slope, this tiny shop is famous for its classic New York-style bagels. Their sesame bagel with butter is simple yet perfect.

  2. Shelsky’s of Brooklyn: This Cobble Hill gem specializes in bagels and smoked fish. Their bagel with whitefish salad is a local favorite.

  3. Terrace Bagels: Found in Windsor Terrace, this shop has been serving up fresh bagels since 1991. Their egg bagel with bacon, egg, and cheese is a breakfast staple.

Queens' Quirky Bagel Spots

Queens offers a diverse range of bagel shops that reflect the borough's multicultural vibe. These spots are worth the trip.

  1. Utopia Bagels: Located in Whitestone, Utopia Bagels is known for its perfectly chewy bagels and wide selection of spreads. Their garlic bagel with veggie cream cheese is a hit.

  2. Bagel Oasis: This Fresh Meadows spot has been around since 1961, offering traditional bagels with a twist. Their pumpernickel bagel with lox spread is a must-try.

  3. Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company: Despite the name, this Astoria shop offers some of the best bagels in Queens. Their whole wheat everything bagel is a healthy yet tasty option.

The Bronx's Bagel Hideaways

The Bronx might not be the first place you think of for bagels, but these hidden spots prove otherwise.

  1. Riverdale Bagels: Located in Riverdale, this shop offers fresh, hand-rolled bagels daily. Their cinnamon raisin bagel with walnut raisin cream cheese is a sweet treat.

  2. Bagel Cafe: Found in Morris Park, Bagel Cafe is known for its fluffy bagels and friendly service. Their blueberry bagel with plain cream cheese is a local favorite.

Staten Island's Secret Bagel Spots

Staten Island has its own share of hidden bagel gems. These spots are worth the ferry ride.

  1. Bagels by the Bay: Located in Great Kills, this shop offers a variety of bagels and spreads. Their onion bagel with chive cream cheese is a standout.

  2. Everything Goes Book Cafe and Neighborhood Stage: This quirky spot in Tompkinsville offers more than just books. Their bagels are fresh and delicious, especially the poppy seed bagel with lox spread.

Savoring NYC's Best Bagels

New York City offers some of the best bagels you'll ever taste. From the classic spots like Ess-a-Bagel and Russ & Daughters to hidden gems like Tompkins Square Bagels and Absolute Bagels, there's something for everyone. Each place has its own unique twist, whether it's the perfect chewiness, a special topping, or a secret recipe. Exploring these bagel spots is a delicious way to experience the city's diverse food culture. Next time you're in NYC, make sure to visit these places and enjoy a true New York bagel. Whether you're a local or a tourist, these bagels are worth every bite. So grab a bagel, maybe some cream cheese, and enjoy the flavors that make New York City a bagel lover's paradise.