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Interesting Bagel Spots in New York

You are looking for a bagel shop that offers something a little more interesting than the usual routine.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
C as in Charlie image 1
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Korean restaurant

Tables sit close together in a warm, eclectic space filled with loud energy and interactive experiences like dessert painting. The vibe blends Korean jeong with Southern hospitality, creating a fun atmosphere suited for small groups. An open kitchen adds warmth, while music keeps the mood lively.

Popcorn Chicken and Charlie's Deli Bagel stand out as must-tries. The chili shrimp bagel offers a unique twist, reminiscent of ‘Mian Bao Xia’ but with more flavor. The bagel dessert surprises with its taste, recommended despite initial doubts.

Meals feature big, bold flavors that balance interesting and familiar tastes. The menu offers a variety of unique drinks, including nemome soju.

People are saying

"The toast roll and banana pudding dessert were my favorite dishes."

"I found the Korean fusion concept here really interesting."

"I loved their awesome popcorn chicken."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the crowd.

2

The restaurant offers a 22:30 dinner slot on Saturdays.

3

The place gets fun at the end of the night Thursday to Saturday nights.

02
Sailor image 1
Restaurant

Cozy, intimate storefront with nautical decor and thoughtful design creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The space buzzes with a great vibe and features an enjoyable playlist alongside a people-watching corner. Limited seating encourages a lively, close-knit experience.

Everything bagels come with lox and a balanced amount of cream cheese. Salmon bagels pair well with Turkish eggs and flatbread for a solid meal.

Green toast features unusual herbs that pair well with cocktails. Appetizers include gentleman’s relish, adding to the interesting flavors throughout.

People are saying

"I thought the French toast was amazing, the best I've ever had."

"I thought the French toast was the best I had ever had."

"The burger here is fantastic, among the very best."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation as soon as possible to secure a table.

2

The wait time can be up to 3 hours during peak hours.

3

The restaurant sold out of burgers by 2 PM, so arrive early.

03
Bagel Joint image 1
Bagel shop

Bagel shop offers a trendy vibe with a cozy, classic decor and a lively, inviting atmosphere. Unique bagel flavors and pastries stand out, including gluten-free options and creative combinations. Indoor seating provides a cute, comfortable space to enjoy fresh, hot bagels.

Bagels here have a crispy exterior and a good chew with excellent flavor. Freshness stands out, and they offer gluten-free options along with raw dough to bake at home.

Bagels come in classic and unusual flavors with an interesting and inclusive twist. Quality stays solid across the range.

People are saying

"These bagels are inventive, with creative flavors and no shortcuts."

"The sandwiches here have amazing and unique flavors."

"The bagels here are interesting, with a great twist on classic flavors."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait at least 15 minutes on weekends due to high demand.

2

The business often runs out of popular items by noon.

3

Bagel Joint offers unique items like egg creams and babka.

04
Librae Bakery image 1

Open kitchen with glass viewing showcases bakers at work, creating a modern, natural decor atmosphere. Space includes indoor and outdoor seating but often feels crowded and competitive for seats. Aromatic scents of za'atar and pistachio fill the air, adding to the sensory experience.

Jerusalem bagels stand out with their unique texture and sweet and salty flavor. Large size makes one enough, often paired with labne for dipping or spreading.

Big airy focaccia comes with interesting toppings and flavor. Middle eastern flavors add a unique and interesting twist. The kitchen display looks beautiful and engaging.

People are saying

"I found the pistachio croissant crispy, creamy, and delicious."

"The Jerusalem Bagel with labneh is amazing."

"The baked goods here are interesting and baked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Seating is quite limited if it’s busy, especially during the day.

2

Get here early because the place gets packed.

3

You should avoid the lines by visiting during the week.

05
Russ & Daughters Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Interior mimics an old-school diner with retro vibe and classy servers in white lab coats. Atmosphere feels warm and homey yet somewhat sterile and quiet while ordering. Known for classic bagel and lox, it draws those seeking a historic Jewish deli experience.

Bagels come out hot and crispy on the outside with a chewy, soft inside. Classic options like the everything bagel with lox stand out, and unique toppings like tuna and roe add variety.

Food options offer interesting flavors and include a side of sour cream that adds a pleasant twist. The atmosphere and location create an engaging setting for conversations and meeting new people.

People are saying

"The bagels here are awesome, especially with the smoked salmon."

"I enjoyed the matzo ball soup; it tasted like chicken gomtang."

"The food options here are interesting and delicious."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is necessary to avoid a wait of over an hour.

2

Expect to wait on busy weekend mornings; arrive early to get on the list.

3

No reservations are accepted, so expect long waits on weekends.

06
Liberty Bagels Wall Street image 1

Bagel shop offers limited indoor seating mostly at the back, with a layout separating order and pickup areas. Atmosphere is busy and chaotic, often crowded with a loud, fast-paced vibe. Creative touches include a gelato-style cream cheese display featuring unique flavors and rows of bagels showcased at the entrance.

Rainbow bagels stand out as a unique offering. Bagels here rank among the best in NYC, with options including gluten free varieties to accommodate allergies.

A wide selection of homemade cream cheese and colorful bagels stands out here. The rainbow cake bagel offers an interesting twist worth trying.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were the best in the world."

"The Bronx Bomber sandwich was enormous and delicious."

"The colorful bagels are really interesting and worth trying."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so plan accordingly.

2

They will charge a fee for credit card payments.

3

Liberty Bagels is open from 7 AM to 6 PM daily.

07
Russ & Daughters image 1

Narrow, small shop with no indoor seating and often crowded atmosphere. The vibe is old school, evoking a sense of history and tradition with a calm, unhurried pace despite the crowd. Outdoor benches offer brief respite while enjoying classic bagel and lox combinations.

Everything bagel with cream cheese, lox, and caviar stands out as a signature offering. Bagels come fresh and well-crafted, often paired with salmon and cream cheese for a classic taste.

Offers an interesting atmosphere and stands as an institution with a rich history. Unique items like pastrami salmon and Turkish Delight add to its distinct character.

People are saying

"I thought the salmon bagel was the best I ever had."

"The pastrami-cured salmon on an everything bagel was stupid good."

"I found the sandwiches and bagels here pretty interesting."

Good to know

1

You must take a number when you first enter to be served.

2

There is no dine-in option; it's takeout only.

3

Expect long wait times, often over an hour, especially after 10am.

08
Best Bagel & Coffee image 1

Small bagel shop offers wide variety of cream cheese flavors and customizable bagels with an impressive assembly line. Seating includes indoor and outdoor tables, though space can feel crowded and loud with a hectic atmosphere. Menus hang from the ceiling, adding a unique visual element to the space.

Bagels here have a distinctive texture and come with toppings like salmon, red onion, and scallion cream cheese. The garlic bagel with pepperjack and steak and cheese stands out as a flavorful option.

Nutella and banana bagel stands out as an interesting choice and gets positive attention. The overall vibe feels unique and engaging.

People are saying

"The bagels here are soft and delicious."

"These bagel sandwiches are huge and loaded with delicious goodness."

"I found the bagels to be unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of up to 30 minutes during rush hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

2

Seating is limited, and it gets crowded at peak times.

3

The shop closes at 4 p.m., so plan your visit accordingly.

09
PopUp Bagels image 1
Bagel shop

Small shop with stylish interior and Instagramable wall creates a vibrant, chill atmosphere. Bagels come in unique, eclectic flavors and are fresh, crispy outside and soft inside. Limited seating means mostly standing or quick visits.

Bagels come out fresh and hot all day long, with a crispy outside and soft middle. The everything bagel stands out for its seasoning, and plain bagels pair well with cream cheese.

The bagels come as rip and dip style with no cutting involved. Orders require a minimum of three bagels, making the approach quite unique.

People are saying

"These bagels are so fluffy and fresh."

"I found their rip and dip bagel concept interesting."

"I thought the drip coffee was excellent."

Good to know

1

You must order a minimum of three bagels, as they don't sell individual ones.

2

It costs $13 for three bagels and cream cheese.

3

The bagels are made fresh throughout the day and come in unique flavors.

10
Chelsea Market image 1

Large covered market inside a restored industrial factory blends historic architecture with modern culinary culture. Vibrant atmosphere fills the space with diverse shops and food stalls, attracting many visitors. Outdoor heated booths offer comfortable spots to eat despite the busy, sometimes warm environment.

Bagel buns often feature almost whole wheat flavor. Options include a typical American bagel sandwich with ham and cheese and a salmon bagel. Staff at the bagel station customize orders carefully.

Structure based on a former Oreo factory creates a unique backdrop. Shops run by traders from different countries offer diverse and interesting finds alongside quality cuisines and a notable cheese plate at CorkBuzz.

People are saying

"This market has endless food options and great shopping."

"It's an interesting place with many different shops and restaurants."

"I had a breakfast bagel, and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half price on oysters and beers/wine.

2

Chelsea Market hosts various events, including cooking classes and pop-up shops.

3

Expect a 20-minute queue outside every restaurant during peak hours.

11
Time Out Market New York image 1

Multi-story food court inside an old harbor warehouse offers a rooftop terrace with free views of Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge, and downtown skyline. Atmosphere shifts from serene and spacious to crowded and loud during busy times. Outdoor seating and a small rooftop bar provide a relaxed spot for drinks and city views.

Bagels stand out for their quality and flavor with options like a turkey bagel and a signature bagel that draw attention. Some places offer bagels tailored to different tastes, including Korean preferences and vegan options.

Warehouse conversion reveals interesting architecture with art installations around the building. Food options include varied restaurants, bars, and desserts alongside shops and views.

People are saying

"The rooftop offers a great view of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan."

"The food options here are so interesting, I couldn't decide what to choose."

"I thought the bagels were delicious."

Good to know

1

Most food vendors do not open until 09:00.

2

Reservations are recommended for the bottomless brunch on weekends.

3

Salsa Night happens every Thursday from 6:30 to 9:30 pm on the rooftop.

12
Zabar's image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Gourmet grocery store with old-world charm and an edgy omni-deli ambiance filled with the aroma of specialty cheeses and coffee. Crowded with serious shoppers, the atmosphere can feel tense but remains a local institution known for its unique bakery and extensive gourmet cookwear upstairs.

Bagels with salmon and cream cheese stand out for their rich flavor and fresh quality. The bagels have a New York market vibe and pair well with specialty coffee.

An expansive store packed from top to bottom with tons of interesting goods and a diverse selection of delicious food from around the world. The place has a fun ambiance and friendly staff, making it a joyful spot to explore.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were the greatest ever."

"The grocery store has a huge variety of specialty items and fresh food."

"I found the place to be expansive and filled with interesting goods."

Good to know

1

Parking is abysmal, so plan accordingly.

2

There is no restroom available for customers.

3

The #1 subway stop is right next to Zabar's for easy access.

13
Liberty Bagels Midtown image 1

Small bagel shop with limited indoor seating and a few outdoor tables on a busy sidewalk creates a crowded, hectic atmosphere. Loud, energetic staff and constant foot traffic contribute to a classic New York vibe. The space feels tight and chaotic, reflecting its popularity.

Bagels here have a classic New York style with a chewy texture and fresh taste. Options include everything and rainbow bagels, and the bagel sandwiches stand out for their flavor and quality.

Bagels come with lots of filling and interesting flavors like Nutella and peanut butter cream cheese. Toppings include sweet tofu cream cheese in cinnamon, raspberry, or blueberry, plus a colorful bagel option.

People are saying

"These bagels are super good and delicious."

"Mustafa treated us like family while explaining the sandwich menu."

"I found the bagels interesting with flavors like Oreo and Nutella cream cheese."

Good to know

1

Get there early because they sell out of some bagel varieties.

2

Be prepared to queue as lines are often out the door.

3

There is very limited seating; it's primarily take-out.

14
Papa d’Amour image 1

Small bakery blends classic French techniques with Asian fusion flavors in a modern, bright space featuring eclectic art like a giant toast sculpture. Crowds create a bustling, hot atmosphere with limited seating that discourages lingering. Free coffee and playful decor add to the lively, inventive vibe.

Salted bagels come out airy with a subtle salty flavor. Salt bread bagels pair well with cream cheese and unique toppings like Kurobuta hot dog spirals. Pricing is on the higher side around $8 per bagel.

Choco-Paille offers an interesting take on desserts. Other pastries also show unique flavors and creative presentations.

People are saying

"These pastries are so creative and innovative."

"The Kurobuta hot dog spiral had a nice flaky pastry."

"The salt bread bagels with cream cheese were pretty good."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines on weekends, but they move quickly.

2

The bakery runs out of ice cream by 3pm, so arrive early.

3

Prices are high, with a small loaf costing over $20.

15
UT47 Kitchen & Bar image 1

Tiny restaurant with few tables and an intimate, cozy atmosphere in a residential setting. Offers a small outdoor space surrounded by potted plants, creating a friendly vibe. Known for excellent vegan and vegetarian breakfast options and rich, flavorful cocktails.

Bagels come with vegan options like tofu bacon and vegan egg, plus avocado and salmon varieties. Gluten free bagels are also available and well made.

Breakfast features a vegan egg with runny yolk on eggs Benedict. Food shows a fantastic Asian fusion influence and arrives in an interesting presentation.

People are saying

"The vegetarian eggs Benedict was wonderful and incredible."

"I loved the vegan breakfast bagel sandwich."

"The food here has an interesting mix of flavors and textures."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for groups of 3 or more due to limited seating.

2

Expect long wait times during busy weekend brunch hours.

3

The restaurant only serves bottled water for dine-in customers.

16
SHMONÉ image 1
Israeli restaurant

Open kitchen with chefs counter seating creates a vibrant energy and intimate atmosphere. Background jazz music and comfortable bar chairs add to the casual, trendy vibe. Frequenters and staff form a friendly, familiar community.

Oven-fresh and chewy, the Jerusalem bagel stands out with a texture that complements salty dishes like Hamachi sashimi. It delivers a taste that recalls Tel Aviv and arrives quickly alongside other appetizers.

Dishes feature complex flavors with sauces that add depth. Each plate offers a flavorful and interesting experience.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, bursting with flavor and deeply comforting."

"The Jerusalem bagel was warm, fluffy, and topped with za'atar."

"The dishes here are flavorful and interesting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating availability.

2

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends and holidays.

3

The restaurant offers a tasting menu priced at $150 per person.

17
Katz's Delicatessen image 1

Rustic deli with tight seating and a nostalgic 70s decor creates a crowded, lively atmosphere. Meat carvers serve as a focal point, offering tastings that engage diners. Walls display celebrity portraits, adding to the historic vibe.

Everything bagels come with gravlax, horseradish cream cheese, capers, and red onion. Bagels are crispy outside and soft inside. Lox portions are hefty and satisfying.

Unique concept and interesting people create a distinct atmosphere. The overall experience feels engaging and different.

People are saying

"The pastrami sandwich here is piled high and melt-in-your-mouth tender."

"The pastrami sandwich here is packed with wonderfully melty beef."

"The bagel sandwiches here are huge."

Good to know

1

The wait for the Katz Pastrami Sandwich can be an hour long.

2

You can only pay with cash at the front of the restaurant.

3

Do not lose your tickets even if you haven't used them to order anything.

18
gertrude’s image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with cramped tables and dark lighting that creates an intimate vibe. Creative cocktails and a menu featuring familiar dishes with unique twists attract a lively, convivial crowd. Outdoor patio seating includes heaters, making it comfortable for groups despite tight spaces.

Open faced bagels come in huge portions with ample, delicious garnishes. Gluten-free bagels are available alongside excellent sable, pastrami lox, latkes, and pickles.

Familiar Jewish deli dishes come with interesting twists and technical finesse. The pickle-brined chicken stands out as a unique plate among the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is unreal, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared."

"I enjoyed the avocado toast bagel; it was so good."

"The familiar dishes here have interesting twists and technical finesse."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Happy hour features $10 martinis and $3 oysters from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Gluten-free options are available, including bagels and burger buns.

19
Lexington Candy Shop image 1

Small diner with retro American atmosphere and handmade soda fountain service creates a nostalgic vibe. Crowded space filled with classic 1920s Americana details and an authentic luncheonette feel. Regulars enjoy old-fashioned cokes and traditional breakfast dishes in a compact, lively setting.

Bagels come out hot and chewy, standing out for their texture and warmth. Options include a cream cheese bagel with good value and a salmon bagel that tastes fresh and satisfying.

Historical charm stands out in this old diner. The Coca Cola with ice cream offers an interesting twist, and the overall vibe feels rushed but fun for classic diner lovers.

People are saying

"You have to try the diner's Coke, mixed the old-fashioned way."

"Trying the old-fashioned Coca-Cola with ice cream is interesting."

"I found the bagel to be the chewiest and hottest I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Breakfast time is recommended to avoid queues at lunchtime.

2

On the weekends, there’s a line that stretches around the block.

3

Be prepared for a wait; it’s all part of the experience.

20
Ellen's Stardust Diner image 1

Classic Broadway-themed diner with singing waitstaff performing throughout, creating a lively, energetic environment. Small, crowded space with a balcony overlooking the whole place adds to the unique atmosphere. Entertainment feels like being inside a Broadway musical.

Rainbow bagels stand out with their vibrant colors and come in large portions. Bagels with salmon offer a classic, satisfying option alongside the unique rainbow variety.

A musical-themed diner offers live performances by singing waitstaff, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere. It provides a fun way to experience American culture and musicals while dining.

People are saying

"The singing servers put on a Broadway-caliber show; it's such fun activities!"

"The singing waitstaff here make the whole experience incredible."

"The waiters singing live songs is really interesting."

Good to know

1

Expect a 50-minute wait during evening hours.

2

A 20% tip is automatically added to the bill.

3

Come during the week to avoid long lines.

21
Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner image 1

Quintessential New York deli with nostalgic 1970s-1980s decor and classic American diner vibe. Atmosphere feels genuine and evocative, offering huge booths ideal for groups and a plentiful takeout counter. Small, cozy interior packed with tables creates an intimate, bustling setting.

Bagels come with flaky whitefish salad or smoked nova, paired with scallion cream cheese, fresh lettuce, red onions, and ripe tomatoes. The bagel lox platter features classic Jewish deli flavors like pastrami and matza ball soup alongside the bagels.

Offers an interesting variety of classic NYC deli food with a culturally rich atmosphere that stands out even to those familiar with deli traditions. The venue itself feels distinctive and engaging.

People are saying

"This pastrami sandwich is delicious and huge."

"The pastrami bagel is so good, you'll take half home."

"The pastrami sandwich is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The average person should share a plate due to the size of the portions.

2

They add a 3.5% surcharge when you pay your bill with any credit card.

3

If you pay with cash, they will take 5% off the bill.

22
Museum of Ice Cream image 1

Fourteen interactive rooms offer colorful, Instagrammable spaces with free ice cream at multiple stations. Loud music and many children create a lively, energetic atmosphere. Creative exhibits include a sprinkle pool and a massive slide, making the experience playful and immersive.

Unique treats include a pink bagel filled with cream cheese ice cream and an ice cream station where soft serve gets dipped in everything seasoning instead of the usual bagel option.

Each room offers a unique visual experience that grows more interesting as you move through. The ice cream bagel and diverse sorbet options add an engaging twist to the visit.

People are saying

"It's a fun, colorful, and interactive experience that kids will love."

"The bagel ice cream sandwich was surprisingly yummy."

"The rooms were really interesting and fun."

Good to know

1

You should reserve your tickets in advance.

2

The cost is $60 per person.

3

Tickets must be purchased ahead of time and online.

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