Best Bagels NYC: Top 10 Must-Try Bakeries
Welcome to the ultimate guide for finding the best bagels in New York City! The Big Apple is renowned for its delicious bagels, and we’re here to help you navigate through the city’s vast options and find the absolute best.
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The Criteria
Before we dive into our recommendations, let’s discuss the criteria we used to determine the best bagels in NYC. We considered three key factors:
- Taste: A great bagel should have a crispy exterior and a chewy interior. It should be perfectly seasoned and have a distinct flavor.
- Freshness: The best bagels are made fresh daily, ensuring they are soft, fluffy, and have that unbeatable aroma.
- Variety: NYC is a melting pot of cultures, and its bagel offerings reflect that diversity. We looked for places that not only have classic flavors but also unique and innovative options.
Top Bagel Shops in NYC
| Bagel Shop | Location | Must-Try Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Ess-a-Bagel | Midtown East | Everything Bagel |
| Black Seed Bagels | Nolita, East Village | Truffle Bagel |
| Murray’s Bagels | Chelsea, West Village | Cinnamon Raisin Bagel |
| Tompkins Square Bagels | East Village | Buffalo Chicken Bagel |
| Absolute Bagels | Upper West Side | Sesame Bagel |
Now, let’s talk about each of these top bagel shops in more detail:
1. Ess-a-bagel
Located in Midtown East, Ess-a-Bagel is a must-visit for bagel lovers. Their flagship bagel, the Everything Bagel, is an absolute crowd-pleaser. With its combination of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic, and onion flakes, this bagel offers an explosion of flavors. Don’t forget to try their homemade cream cheese spreads as well!
2. Black Seed Bagels
If you’re in Nolita or the East Village, Black Seed Bagels is the place to go. Their Truffle Bagel is a standout choice, featuring truffle cream cheese, crispy shallots, and dill. It’s a sophisticated twist on a classic favorite that you won’t want to miss.
3. Murray’s Bagels
With locations in Chelsea and the West Village, Murray’s Bagels is a NYC institution. Their Cinnamon Raisin Bagel is a fan favorite, providing the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Toast it, add some butter or cream cheese, and you’re in for a heavenly treat.
4. Tompkins Square Bagels
For those craving unique flavors, Tompkins Square Bagels in the East Village offers a wide range of options. Their Buffalo Chicken Bagel, with its spicy chicken and blue cheese spread, is a flavor explosion that will satisfy your taste buds.
5. Absolute Bagels
Located in the Upper West Side, Absolute Bagels is a local favorite. Their Sesame Bagel is an absolute classic. Try it with lox and cream cheese for a traditional NYC experience that never disappoints.
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Conclusion
When it comes to bagels, NYC is truly in a league of its own. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the city’s bagel scene is a must-do. From Ess-a-Bagel’s Everything Bagel to Absolute Bagels’ Sesame Bagel, each of these top bagel shops offers a unique and delicious experience.
So grab a friend, plan a bagel crawl, and indulge in the best bagels NYC has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you!
