I want to preface this article with what may be the biggest disclaimer that possibly could be made regarding New York City food. I understand people have set-in-stone notions of what establishment makes the best bagel. There are so many factors contributing to this principal decision, such as what your go-to order is or if the bagel is merely the vessel or the star of the show. Regardless, this breakfast icon is something I have spent a lot of time trying to find the best of. I even have an Instagram account (@sexybagelsnyc, drop a follow) dedicated to my journey. But this does not make me the most qualified person to advise on bagel spots. I just have been to over 38 different bagel stores to figure it out for myself.
I am originally from Minneapolis, an area not typically known for its stellar bagels. Coming to Fordham University, the East Coast’s love of the breakfast staple was unknown to me. I was immediately hooked once I discovered the plethora of shops and delis dedicated to bagels. For the last three years, friends and family aided and participated in my love of bagels. I once was in a public restroom at Fordham and a stranger gave me a double take and asked, “Aren’t you the girl from that bagel account?” One of the prouder moments of my life, truly.
However, as I prepare to go abroad to Paris next semester, the daunting reality of a bagel-less existence gets closer and closer. Am I being dramatic? Yes. France will open up new avenues of culture and cuisine to try that are not accessible in the United States. But I feel it is my duty to leave behind the culmination of my bagel-tasting experience in New York. The order of the bagel shops cannot be considered ranked as I have come to realize that each bagel store offers something better than the next. Whether it’s the cream cheese, the airiness or the taste of the bagel, there are pros and cons to each establishment. These places are worth the trip and have left an impression on my experience living in New York. Here are five places I truly think you should go, plus a few honorable mentions.
- Brooklyn Bagels.
Brooklyn Bagels consistently delivers warm, fresh bagels filled with wonderfully executed sandwich toppings. After going to so many of the bagel shops in the city, a repeat is not unheard of for me. It’s hard not to want to fall back on Brooklyn Bagels, as my friends and I all agree that it offers an amazing bagel every time you go. A recommendation from my friend Kailee is to get their freshly made orange juice. It offers a cherry on top to the breakfast experience.
- Absolute Bagels
Would this truly be a trustworthy list if Absolute Bagels was not on it? Located on the Upper West Side, this is the definition of a no-frills establishment. It’s cash-only, and plan for a line when you go. You are going for the bagels in this instance, which are soft and not overwhelmingly huge. Nearby is the Grand Bazaar, so grab a bagel, hop on the D train and spend the morning looking through all the vendors.
- Ess-A-Bagel
I did a school project on this store for a class last year and met the owner, so I feel I have a personal connection to this spot. It helps that their bagels are amazing every time I go. This is most likely one of my top repeats and I do not think anyone could say this place is bad. I always say it’s touristy, but it’s touristy for a reason.
- Best Bagel and Coffee
The Penn Station district of Manhattan is always an overstimulating experience for me when I’m in the area. One of the only things that makes the trip worthwhile is Best Bagel and Coffee. I was thrown off by the name the first time I went but was pleasantly surprised at how good it was. If you are catching a train home or loitering in the Garment District, this hidden storefront offers huge, fluffy bagels and quick service, perfect for all.
- Shelsky’s of Brooklyn
Shelsky’s is a sentimental choice for me. I went my freshman year when I met my parents in Brooklyn during a day I did not have classes. The trip was not impromptu for them, but it was fate they came during one of my worst bouts of homesickness that year. The atmosphere was a classic Jewish deli that served up an authentic, cannot-miss bagel. A place filled with memories of good food and company that I am sure you can replicate.
Before wrapping up, I would like to give honorable mentions to Tompkins Square Bagels, David’s Bagels, Russ and Daughters as well as Knickerbocker Bagel. All good bagels, but these other spots are special in my heart. If you disagree with me, you are probably right. If you adamantly believe Simon’s Deli has the best bagels, I support you in that decision (sort of)! I just want to impart some bagel shops that have added to my experience at Fordham. There’s no right or wrong answer; just enjoy your bagel!
