Only a few things spark debate quite like bagels. Everyone has an opinion, and Scranton has its share of contenders. After countless taste tests, flaky bits on keyboards, and more than one coffee stain, I’ve sifted through the local scene to find the city’s best. It turns out, Scranton treats bagels with the same seriousness it gives to its storied pizza joints.
If you’re looking for bagels that go beyond the limp circles found in supermarket aisles, Scranton delivers plenty of crusty, golden options. Want chewy interiors, a crackly crust, or creative flavor twists? There’s a bagel and a shop in this city for almost every craving. I’ll walk you through a list where the dough is always fresh and the spreads are never stingy. Dive in to discover which spot matches your breakfast mood—or your next carb-fueled lunch.
1. Abe’s Kosher Delicatessen
Abe’s Kosher Delicatessen has the unhurried charm of a classic deli, tucked among Scranton’s downtown blocks. The first time I stopped in, the staff greeted me with warm smiles and a fresh pot of coffee. You’ll notice a blend of regulars catching up over breakfast and newcomers marveling at the old-school counter.
What sets Abe’s apart is its commitment to kosher, fresh ingredients and unmistakable deli flavors. The bagels come toasted, never dry, and the spreads taste like they skip the shortcuts. If you want instant comfort, order the lox and bagel platter. The salmon is silky; the bagel, perfectly chewy.
For a lighter bite, their veggie cream cheese on a plain bagel stands out. Abe’s always brings a little extra care to every detail.
2. Northern Light Espresso Bar
Northern Light Espresso Bar feels like stumbling into a friend’s kitchen, only with far better coffee. Each visit, I find regulars swaying with their mugs and newcomers eyeing the pastry display. It’s a place where bagels meet atmosphere—casual, unhurried, and inviting.
The staff care about every order, often remembering your go-to. Their bagels are sourced fresh, with a texture that hovers between soft and sturdy—ideal for holding generous toppings. Pair a toasted everything bagel with scallion cream cheese and their signature espresso, and you’ll see why locals love it.
If you lean toward plant-based, the veggie bagel sandwich packs flavor and crunch. Northern Light delivers a true Scranton gathering spot, right in the city’s heart.
3. National Bakery
National Bakery is legendary among Scranton locals. For me, it’s the aroma that hits you before you even walk in—warm yeast, flour, a promise of comfort. The shelves brim with baked goods of every kind, but true bagel fans head straight to the corner stacked with fresh, hand-rolled bagels.
What makes National Bakery special is consistency. The bagels here toe the line between dense and pillowy, every one with a shiny, golden crust. They don’t rely on bells and whistles. Their plain bagel, toasted and topped with a simple schmear, is a throwback to classic bakery perfection.
If you crave something different, the onion bagel punches above its weight, with just enough sweetness and crunch to keep you reaching for another.
4. Einstein Bros. Bagels
Einstein Bros. Bagels is one of those places where you can count on a steady hum of activity and the scent of baking dough. When I swing by on weekdays, it’s students and office regulars juggling coffee cups and brown bags. The bagels here appeal to those who love reliable classics with a twist.
The biggest draw is the variety. Whether you crave a sesame bagel with chive shmear or want to build your own breakfast sandwich, choices abound. The bagels are springy and never overly chewy, and the spreads are whipped just right.
If you’re planning a group breakfast, their Baker’s Dozen offers plenty of mix-and-match options—always fresh from the oven. Einstein Bros. proves consistency can still spark a bit of excitement.
5. Bagelwich
(570) 983-0639Call
Bagelwich has the kind of no-nonsense vibe that makes you want to linger. On my last stop there, the steady stream of customers ordering “the usual” told me everything I needed to know—this spot has a loyal crowd. Service is brisk but friendly, and the focus is squarely on bagels done right.
Bagelwich’s signature move is piling high-quality fillings inside bagels that are soft, yet satisfyingly chewy. The classic egg and cheese bagel sandwich is a breakfast favorite: warm, hearty, and exactly what you need when Scranton’s weather turns brisk.
If you’re after more crunch, order the everything bagel toasted with plain cream cheese. Each bagel feels as though it was made just for you, reflecting Bagelwich’s knack for simple, memorable meals.
6. Rising Bagel Cafe
(570) 963-9233Call
Rising Bagel Cafe is tucked beside the bustle of Linden Street, but inside it’s unhurried and relaxed. Every time I visit, I notice how the smell of toasting bagels mingles with the low hum of conversation. They take pride in their dough—fresh, soft, and always with just the right bite.
The standout here is the spinach bagel with homemade veggie cream cheese. It’s colorful, savory, and has a loyal following for good reason. If you’re in during the morning rush, the staff manages to stay upbeat and quick, so your breakfast lands fast and hot.
Rising Bagel Cafe makes every meal feel like a personal pick-me-up: good bagels, easygoing vibes, and reliable comfort.
7. Bagel Wich
(570) 347-5877Call
Bagel Wich, nestled in the Keyser-Oak Shopping Center, has a neighborhood feel that’s hard to fake. Every time I drop in, I spot locals chatting with staff as they pick up breakfast to go. The bagels here are fresh, satisfyingly chewy, and always ready to be loaded up.
The menu keeps things straightforward but reliable. Try the egg and cheese bagel sandwich—it’s warm, comforting, and exactly what you want when you need fuel for the day. The bagels aren’t overly dense, making each bite light but filling.
If you’re in the mood for classic comfort, the plain bagel with a swipe of veggie cream cheese is a no-miss order. Bagel Wich proves great bagels don’t need to shout for attention.
8. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ may be a national name, but its Scranton spot feels like a neighborhood staple. Whether I’m on a tight schedule or just need a reliable pick-me-up, Dunkin’ manages to deliver every time. Speed, convenience, and consistency set it apart.
The bagels offer that familiar, mild flavor and just enough chew. Order a multigrain bagel with plain cream cheese for a quick, satisfying breakfast—and don’t forget the coffee. If you’re feeling extra hungry, their egg and cheese bagel sandwich is warm, filling, and made to order.
Dunkin’ keeps mornings simple with grab-and-go bagels that do their job without fuss. For Scranton locals on the move, that’s hard to beat.
9. Main Street Bagel & Sub
(570) 383-7443Call
Main Street Bagel & Sub has the charm of a classic corner shop paired with hometown warmth. Each time I’ve stopped in, the conversation flows as freely as the drip coffee. Their bagels have a refreshingly homemade touch—soft, thick, and just sturdy enough for overstuffed fillings.
The standout move here is the egg and cheese on a toasted whole wheat bagel. Every bite is filling, perfect for kickstarting a busy day. The staff doesn’t rush you, and they’re happy to suggest their favorites if you’re stuck on options.
If you need fuel for lunch, the veggie-loaded bagel sandwich gives you color, crunch, and big flavor. Main Street Bagel & Sub balances comfort, quality, and a down-to-earth vibe every time.
10. North Pocono Bagel Shoppe
North Pocono Bagel Shoppe sits along Route 690 and draws a mix of regulars and road-trippers. Every time I stop in, I notice a friendly, local energy—the kind you only get from a shop serving the same faces day after day. The bagels are reliably fresh and come in a good range of classic and creative flavors.
Their sesame and whole wheat bagels have a golden crust that stands up well to any spread. For breakfast, the egg and cheese on an everything bagel delivers the kind of comfort that helps you tackle whatever’s next.
If you’re passing through, grab a bag of bagels to go—they travel well, and you’ll appreciate the freshness long after you leave North Pocono Bagel Shoppe’s lot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the freshest bagels in Scranton?
Abe’s Kosher Delicatessen, National Bakery, and Northern Light Espresso Bar are top choices for fresh-baked, locally made bagels any morning.
Do any Scranton bagel shops offer vegan or vegetarian options?
Yes. Northern Light Espresso Bar and Abe’s Kosher Delicatessen have vegan and vegetarian-friendly spreads and sandwich options to fit most preferences.
Are there any local spots with unique bagel flavors?
Try Rising Bagel Cafe for their spinach and other creative bagel varieties. National Bakery also rotates in distinct flavors depending on the day.
Which spots are best for a quick grab-and-go breakfast?
Dunkin’ and Einstein Bros. Bagels have fast service for busy mornings, while Main Street Bagel & Sub and Bagelwich offer reliable takeout with a local flair.
Can I find gluten-free bagels in Scranton?
Some larger chains like Einstein Bros. occasionally offer gluten-free options, but it’s best to call ahead as availability can vary.