New Yorkers love debating bagels, and this list of 19 top spots reflects evolving tastes alongside tradition. From century-old institutions to modern innovators, the selections range from classic hand-rolled varieties to sourdough hybrids. Some shops stick to time-honored methods, while others experiment with bold flavors and toppings. The article acknowledges that preferences are subjective, noting that what one New Yorker considers the best another might reject. Whether you seek a dense, chewy interior or a taut crust with a honeycomb crumb, the city offers diverse options. Many establishments are neighborhood staples, while others have citywide followings. The list includes spots famous for their cream cheese pairings and those celebrated for stand-alone bagel quality. From the Upper West Side to Queens and Brooklyn, these bagel shops represent the current landscape of New York's beloved bready staple.
Bagel Oasis, operating since 1961 near the Long Island Expressway in Queens, continues to produce distinctive bagels with a nearly shattering crust. Best Bagel and Coffee in Midtown caters to office workers and commuters with notably large bagels featuring a chewy exterior. 2788 Bagels, the revival of the former Absolute Bagels on the Upper West Side, now accepts credit cards while maintaining its golden crust and honeycomb crumb. Apollo Bagels in Greenpoint distinguishes itself with sourdough-based bagels and a larger hole, offering plain, sesame, and everything flavors. Bagel Joint, also in Greenpoint, pushes boundaries with miso, gochujang, and duck egg flavors alongside traditional hand-rolled options.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing