Cracking into a fresh, hand-rolled bagel has a magic all its own. Luckily, in Kenilworth, NJ, you won’t need to settle for less than stellar. This pocket of New Jersey is dotted with bagel shops, each with its quirks, specialties, and die-hard fans. I remember my first visit to one—an unassuming shop on Boulevard—where the scent of warm dough nearly convinced me to try one of everything on display. Whether you like your bagels pillowy or with a satisfying chew, it’s a town where you can always find something worth spreading your favorite cream cheese on.
Deciding where to get the best bagel isn’t just about taste—but also about tradition, texture, and the small joys that come with a brown paper bag packed with fresh rounds. Every spot offers something different, so this guide doesn’t just skim the surface. You’ll find details on standout bagels, house specialties, and what makes each shop a local favorite. If you’re in the mood for a classic plain, a playful everything, or something a bit more adventurous, you’ll be ready to decide where your next breakfast—or lunchtime craving—should be.
1. Bagels 4U
Bagels 4U has been a Kenilworth staple for years, blending old-school charm with the bustle of a modern bagel shop. The aroma of golden, hand-rolled bagels pulls you in from Boulevard long before you spot the shop’s bright awning. My favorite trip here involved biting into an everything bagel, still warm, its glossy crust crackling beneath a thick layer of veggie cream cheese—the chew was unbeatable.
What sets Bagels 4U apart is their dedication to fresh, daily-made dough and classic hand-rolling techniques. Each bagel boasts a perfect balance between crisp exterior and fluffy interior, a nod to true New Jersey style. Try their sesame or poppy seed bagel with whipped scallion cream cheese—the freshness and texture outshine the rest.
2. I Love Bagels
I Love Bagels sits right along Boulevard, a hub where the early morning crowd mixes with local regulars. The first time I stopped in, I was greeted with a smile and that unmistakable scent of bagels just out of the oven. The dough here leans soft and pillowy, the perfect canvas for generous spreads or stacked sandwich fillings.
Generosity is I Love Bagels’ calling card; portions here are hearty, and prices are notably friendly on your wallet. Their plain bagel, toasted with a swipe of chive cream cheese, showcases both their technique and freshness perfectly.
For something heartier, go for a salted bagel with their house-made egg salad. You’ll find this spot quietly confident in its quality, letting the bagels do all the talking.
3. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ on Boulevard is a go-to for quick breakfast fixes and crowd-pleasing coffee. There’s a kind of comfort in the familiar pink and orange branding, whether you swing by on your commute or need a quick refuel in the middle of the day. My last visit was a classic Dunkin’ morning—fast service, hot coffee, and a fresh bagel ready at the counter.
Dunkin’ excels in consistency and convenience. The bagels are always soft with a gentle chew, making them perfect for an on-the-go breakfast. If you need something reliable, grab their multigrain bagel paired with a hot latte. It’s wholesome, filling, and travels well if you’re headed back to work or class.
The egg and cheese on a plain bagel is a satisfying pick, especially if you’re looking for something warm. Dunkin’ delivers the no-fuss option you can count on.
4. Clark Supreme Bagels
Clark Supreme Bagels sits just a short drive from Kenilworth, yet feels quietly tucked away from the bustle. When I stopped in one rainy morning, the shop felt cozy, with locals chatting over coffee and the aroma of baked bagels filling the air. It’s a spot where the bagels are hefty, old-school style.
The bagels here have real substance. Each one has a crisp crust that gives way to a dense, satisfying interior. Try their cinnamon raisin bagel with plain cream cheese for a sweet start, or a poppy seed bagel for a classic bite.
If you’re indecisive, go with their bagel platter—perfect for a group and proof of their consistent quality across flavors.
5. Bagels 4 U of Short Hills
Bagels 4 U of Short Hills carries the legacy of quality that the name promises, just a short trip from Kenilworth. The first bagel I tried here—a salted, toasted, and loaded with scallion cream cheese—left a mark with its distinctively crisp exterior and springy middle. The shop itself buzzes with regulars, and staff move briskly, but never too busy to offer a suggestion if you can’t decide.
The range here is impressive, with plenty to satisfy both purists and more adventurous eaters. Their whole wheat bagel makes a solid, health-friendly option, while the classic sesame remains a top pick for those who want tradition in every bite.
Don’t skip their freshly baked egg bagel, which perfectly captures the shop’s knack for balancing richness and chew. It’s ideal for a morning pick-me-up or as the sturdy base of a breakfast sandwich.
6. Bagels & Beans
Bagels & Beans in Union is a cheerful fixture for anyone craving a classic bagel a short drive from Kenilworth. One rainy afternoon, I found myself ducking inside, where voices mingled over coffee and the counter offered a tempting spread of bagels. Their bagels come out of the oven both crisp and fluffy, just the way loyal locals like them.
What makes this spot stand out is its equally strong lineup of fresh-brewed coffee and creative bagel sandwiches. The energy in the place matches the morning rush, but you never feel rushed yourself.
For a proper taste, order their everything bagel piled high with veggie cream cheese. It’s simple, satisfying, and a great reflection of the shop’s focus on quality and comfort.
7. Manhattan Bagel
Manhattan Bagel in Union takes bagel-making as a serious morning craft. The way the staff arrives before sunrise, hand-rolling and boiling dough, gives each bagel a classic New York texture—shiny crust, soft but satisfyingly chewy inside. You feel the difference with every bite; I stopped in before a road trip once and the poppy bagel with veggie cream cheese kept me going for hours.
The daily menu is full of options, but order a plain bagel loaded with their Avocado Veg Out spread for something fresh and vibrant. Their breakfast sandwiches are also reliable, made to order, and always filling.
For something light yet flavorful, the Avocado Egg White Breakfast Sandwich is a stand-out. Manhattan Bagel reliably delivers on both taste and the sense of genuine tradition.
8. New York City Bagels
New York City Bagels, along Route 22, delivers that unmistakable New York experience close to Kenilworth. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by the bustle of regulars and a counter stacked with glossy bagels. My last visit, I tried a toasted sesame bagel with scallion cream cheese—the signature chew and fresh-baked taste made it easy to see why this spot has fans.
The variety here stands out, with bagels that maintain the right balance of crisp and soft for every order. Their classic everything bagel makes an ideal base for a hearty breakfast sandwich or just a generous spread of cream cheese.
If you’re after authenticity, grab a pumpernickel or salt bagel; both showcase the kind of texture NYC-style bagels are famous for.
9. Triple J Bagels
(908) 687-4900Call
Tucked into the Galloping Hills Mall, Triple J Bagels offers a cozy, no-nonsense experience for anyone craving a sturdy New Jersey bagel. When I first stopped in, the whirlwind of customers was a sure sign of something special behind the counter. The bagels here lean traditional—thick, dense, and baked with care.
You taste the attention to detail with each bite. The plain and whole wheat bagels are standouts, toasted and topped with classic cream cheese. If you’re hungry, the egg bagel makes a satisfying breakfast option.
Triple J shines with friendly service and consistent quality—a quick grab-and-go spot when you need a real bagel, fast.
10. Skolniks Bagel Bakery
Skolniks Bagel Bakery on Route 22 blends a retro bakery vibe with the straightforward appeal of classic bagels. My first visit was early on a weekend, greeted by the morning rush and the unmistakable smell of fresh-baked bread. Their bagels have a slightly crunchy crust with an airy, soft interior—true to old-fashioned roots.
The charm here is in the simplicity and the wide selection of fresh bagels, pulled from the oven throughout the morning. Their onion bagel, toasted and topped with vegetable cream cheese, was a standout for its balanced flavors and texture.
This spot makes it easy to grab a bag of assorted bagels—perfect for sharing or stocking up for the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes bagels in Kenilworth, NJ unique?
Kenilworth bagels are prized for their freshness, hand-rolled preparation, and authentic New Jersey texture. You’ll find a perfect balance of chewy interiors and crisp crusts, with plenty of variety in flavors.
Where can I find the best bagels in Kenilworth?
Many locals swear by spots like Bagels 4U, I Love Bagels, and several others on Boulevard, each known for signature styles and friendly service.
What are the most popular bagel flavors in Kenilworth?
Classic favorites such as everything, sesame, plain, and cinnamon raisin top the list, often paired with homemade cream cheeses or breakfast sandwiches.
Are there vegetarian options at Kenilworth bagel shops?
Absolutely. Most spots offer vegetable cream cheese spreads, egg sandwiches, and plenty of plain, poppy, or everything bagels that keep things simple and satisfying.
Can I order bagels in advance or for catering?
Yes. Several shops in Kenilworth and nearby towns offer advance ordering and catering trays, making it easy to feed a crowd or grab breakfast for the office.