Finding a truly great bagel can feel like a quest, especially in North Myrtle Beach, where the sun and surf often steal the spotlight. Yet for those who know where to look, hidden gems await behind bakery doors—serving bagels with that magic crusty exterior and soft, chewy heart. Bagels, after all, aren’t just breakfast; they’re an edible comfort blanket, and the city offers plenty of variation for purists and flavor experimenters alike.
I still remember the sense of anticipation I felt on my first morning bagel search here—would it be pillowy and warm, crisp and toasted, or disappointingly dry? North Myrtle Beach delivered, and then some, with spots that pair local flair with bagel tradition. If you’re searching for the real deal—that sweet spot between New York nostalgia and Southern hospitality—you’re exactly where you need to be. Here’s your guided tour through some of the city’s most beloved bagel shops.
1. Johnny D’s Waffles and Benedicts, North Myrtle Beach
Step into Johnny D’s Waffles and Benedicts and you’ll sense right away that this isn’t your cookie-cutter breakfast stop. Family-owned and chef-driven, this diner infuses a homey vibe with creativity in every corner. I’ve found myself coming back for the energy—something about warm smiles with the comfort of familiar favorites.
Bagel lovers should try their toasted bagels with tangy cream cheese or go for the classic bagel breakfast sandwich. Each bagel is soft inside, with just the right chewy bite, playing well with fluffy eggs. The bagel selection gives a nod to tradition while welcoming a streak of Southern charm. That mix of old-school know-how and inventive flair is what keeps me returning for “just one more bite.”
2. Krave Bagel
Krave Bagel pulls off the New York bagel experience without ever leaving the Carolina coast, and that’s no small feat. My first visit started with the scent of fresh-baked dough and ended with a true bagel awakening: crisp on the outside, luxuriously chewy on the inside.
What sets Krave apart is their dedication to authenticity. Their bagels have the golden sheen and heft you’d expect from a true NYC spot—no shortcuts, just skill and great timing. The kitchen works magic with bagel breakfast sandwiches, especially when paired with their house-made spreads. Vegetarians have plenty to cheer about too.
If pressed for one must-try, order the classic bagel with cream cheese, or take a risk with their veggie-stacked options. Each bite feels like it could be straight from a city deli, just with a hint of salty Atlantic air.
3. Bagel Factory
Bagel Factory is what you get when passion meets pure bagel craft. I wandered in on a sleepy morning and left with a newfound respect for how simple ingredients can be transformed into something comforting and memorable. The energy inside nods to classic bagel shops up north, but with a breezy Myrtle Beach twist.
Each bagel is impressively dense, perfectly chewy, and wears that glossy, satisfying crust only genuine water-boiled bagels achieve. Their everything bagel stands out, especially when layered with scallion cream cheese—an unbeatable combo that hits all the right notes for a breakfast bite.
Bagel Factory also has the sort of old-school pastry selection that tempts you to linger longer. For anyone craving that honest bagel shop vibe, this place gets it right, every time.
4. Panera Bread
Panera Bread brings something familiar to every city it lands in, and North Myrtle Beach is no different. It’s the sort of spot where I often find myself camping out with a cup of coffee, working through a bagel breakfast in the calm, airy dining room.
Consistency is what you get here; Panera’s bagels have a soft chew, subtle sweetness, and the perfect pairing of classic spreads. Their asiago cheese bagel is always a solid bet, delivering a bold flavor that pairs well with their veggie or plain cream cheese.
Need something quick before a morning on the beach? The grab-and-go setup lets you enjoy fresh bagels, with options for dine-in or takeout. There’s reliability in every bite, and sometimes that’s exactly what you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where can I find authentic New York-style bagels in North Myrtle Beach?
Krave Bagel is your top bet for true New York-style bagels—chewy, dense, and made fresh daily.
2. Are there any places serving vegan or vegetarian bagel options?
Most spots, including Johnny D’s and Krave Bagel, offer vegetarian and even vegan-friendly spreads and toppings.
3. Which bagel shop is best for a quick breakfast on the go?
Panera Bread’s grab-and-go counter and drive-thru at Krave Bagel both make for fast and convenient morning stops.
4. Can I find gluten-free bagels in North Myrtle Beach?
Johnny D’s offers gluten-free bagel options, making it easy to enjoy breakfast without compromise.
5. What’s a local favorite bagel flavor?
You’ll find everything bagels are a constant favorite, but don’t overlook the asiago or traditional plain for a classic bite.
6. Do any places serve bagel sandwiches or unique bagel creations?
Johnny D’s breakfast bagel sandwiches and Krave’s customizable options let you build something special—eggs, cheese, fresh veggies, and all.
7. Is there a bagel shop suitable for families or groups?
Johnny D’s and Bagel Factory both offer a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere perfect for dining with a crowd.
8. Can I order bagels for takeout or catering?
All of these spots provide takeout, and several, like Bagel Factory, will prepare trays for larger gatherings—just call ahead to arrange.
