Finding a truly great bagel in Floral Park, NY, isn’t just about biting into something warm and chewy. It’s about the search itself—the feeling you get as the aroma of fresh dough hits you when you walk through the door. Floral Park may seem like a quiet neighborhood, but when it comes to bagels, it’s quietly competitive, with each spot working to perfect the art.
If you care about flaky crusts, soft centers, and toppings that do more than just fill space, you’re in the right place. I’ve wandered into early morning bakeries, chatted with regulars at their favorite counters, and sampled my way through poppy seeds and plain alike. This list draws on real visits, honest cravings, and a borderline-obsessive scrutiny of crumb texture. The result? A guide that skips the so-so and gets right to the doughy heart of Floral Park’s bagel scene.
Where to find the best bagels in Floral Park, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Floral Park, NY:
- Family Bagels
- Dunkin’
- Slims Bagels and Bialys
- Bagel Doctor West
- Bagel Shoppes
- Peter’s Hot Bagels
- Bagel Oasis
- A & S Bagels
- Magic Bagels
- Jr’s Bagels
1. Family Bagels
Family Bagels feels like the heart of Jericho Turnpike. The storefront is modest, but the line out the door on weekends hints at something special inside. When I first stepped in, the scent of baking dough and friendly banter pulled me right into the fold.
The bagels here are the perfect mix of chewy and crisp—never dry, always fresh. Whether you go plain or grab a classic everything, each bite brings a little bit of New York tradition. Their whole wheat bagel, with a thick smear of vegetable cream cheese, is my go-to after more visits than I’d confess.
Service is rapid, and regulars mix easily with newcomers. Family Bagels’s prices are fair, and you’re never rushed.
2. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ may be a national name, but the Hillside Avenue location in Floral Park has its own rhythm. That harmony starts with the staff, who know how to move briskly while still sharing a smile. Passing through after a late shift, I’ve found the bagels fresh even in the afternoon.
The bagels here are soft with a slight chew, never rubbery. They toast well, making them a safe pick for breakfast on the run. If you’re torn, try the sesame bagel with a classic egg and cheese. It’s the kind of steady, reliable option that keeps locals coming back.
Dunkin’ balances quality and convenience. Their quick service means you’re never waiting long, but you’re also not getting a generic product.
3. Slims Bagels and Bialys
Slims Bagels and Bialys has an old-school charm you notice the moment you push open the door. My first visit happened on a drizzly morning, and the warmth from the ovens hit like a welcome. It’s the sort of spot where a paper bag of bagels still feels special.
Their handmade bagels have an honest, dense chew that stands up to any spread. Slims shines brightest with their bialys— slightly smoky, dotted with onions, and baked until just golden. For something sturdy and satisfying, their pumpernickel bagel with plain cream cheese is always a strong choice.
The experience is all about tradition: cash only, early hours, and a staff who remembers faces. Slims proves you don’t need frills when you do the basics right.
4. Bagel Doctor West
(516) 358-7400Call
Bagel Doctor West is that classic neighborhood bagel shop with a loyal crowd hovering over their morning coffees. My first stop here was after a friend insisted I try their bagels hot from the oven—turns out, that’s the only way to do it. You’ll catch a whiff of fresh bread before you even reach the counter.
Bagel Doctor West’s bagels are hefty and have a pleasant snap to the crust. Their cinnamon raisin is studded with plump fruit and carries just the right sweetness. Pair it with their whipped cream cheese for a combination that’s both simple and spot-on.
Service is quick, seating is no-fuss, and there’s no shortage of regulars to chat with as you choose your favorite from the display.
5. Bagel Shoppes
(718) 423-6692Call
Bagel Shoppes on 73rd Ave evoked nostalgia from my very first visit. The vibe here is laid-back, whether you’re grabbing a quick dozen or slowing down with a coffee. I remember watching a steady stream of locals file in and out, always leaving with smiles and bags that looked heavier than they should.
The bagels have a classic, slightly puffed crust and a balanced, pillowy interior. There’s a certain care in the way they’re shaped and baked that sets Bagel Shoppes apart. Their sesame seed bagel, toasted to perfection and slathered with scallion cream cheese, is an easy favorite.
Bagel Shoppes never skimps on variety or service, and the place feels like the kind of local secret you want to share but also keep for yourself.
6. Peter’s Hot Bagels
(718) 352-1498Call
Peter’s Hot Bagels on Bell Blvd has a steady buzz, even on quiet mornings. Walking in, you’re greeted with a waft of steam and a chorus of friendly greetings behind the counter. My first bite from their rack, still warm, made me a convert.
These bagels live up to the ‘hot’ in the name; always soft inside and golden at the edges, still crackling from the oven. The poppy seed with whipped cream cheese is a standout, fresh and full of flavor without being overwhelming. If you’re craving something classic, their plain bagel has a depth you’ll only get from a shop that bakes throughout the day.
Peter’s shines in simplicity, serving bagels that don’t require any frills to satisfy.
7. Bagel Oasis
Bagel Oasis sits just off the expressway but feels worlds away from rush-hour chaos. Stepping inside, I noticed right off how many regulars were on a first-name basis with the staff. That warmth stays with you, even if you’re only stopping by once.
The bagels here have a signature glossy crust and a dense, flavorful core that never disappoints. Their everything bagel is stacked with just the right amount of seeds and seasoning. I keep coming back for the egg bagel, which somehow manages to be rich, bright, and never too heavy.
Bagel Oasis operates with smooth efficiency, making it a top pick for both breakfast and a quick snack, any time of day.
8. A & S Bagels
A & S Bagels gets its reputation honestly—lines out the door at peak hours, and a steady buzz of chatter from bagel lovers who know what’s good. My own introduction here happened by accident, but I haven’t stopped returning since. There’s a tangible sense that each bagel gets proper attention, from shaping to the final bake.
The bagels are extra large with a glossy, crackling crust and a definitive chew. Their salt bagel, paired with a generous swipe of scallion cream cheese, is a simple, satisfying fix that keeps me coming back. If you want classic New York authenticity, this is where it lives.
It’s a cash-only spot, so come prepared. One bite and you’ll see why A & S is considered a must in the Floral Park area.
9. Magic Bagels
(516) 872-8779Call
Magic Bagels is one of those hidden gems. Tucked on Merrick Road in Valley Stream, it’s easy to drive right past—until you catch the aroma of freshly baked dough. During my first stop, I noticed locals exchanging quick hellos and leaving with bags packed with breakfast.
The bagels at Magic Bagels strike a balance: crisp crust, dense interior, and a clean flavor that reminds you of how bagels should taste. What sets them apart is the texture—there’s no skimping on the baking time, and it shows. If you want something memorable, try their whole wheat or onion bagel, best with a swipe of their tangy house cream cheese.
Bring cash and a healthy appetite—one bagel here rarely feels like enough.
10. Jr’s Bagels
Jr’s Bagels keeps things simple with a counter packed full of golden, glossy bagels and a staff that never seems to slow down. I once popped in on a sleepy Sunday and came out with enough bagels to feed a whole brunch crowd—each one just as good as the last.
The bagels at Jr’s are reliably fresh, with an airy interior and a solid crust. There’s consistency here that’s rare and delightful. Their rye bagel is a favorite, especially when served warm and topped with vegetable cream cheese.
Everyone’s in a good mood, whether they’re picking up for a quick breakfast or stocking up for the week. Jr’s is the reliable, local spot that never lets you down.
More Things to Try in Floral Park, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes bagels in Floral Park, NY special?
Floral Park bagels draw from New York’s classic tradition, using old-world methods that result in a chewy bite and golden crust. Many local shops boil bagels before baking, which sets the texture apart from supermarket versions.
Where can I find hand-rolled bagels in Floral Park?
Several shops on the list—including Slims Bagels and Bialys and Magic Bagels—make hand-rolled bagels daily, ensuring each is slightly unique and full of character.
Which bagel shops offer vegan or dairy-free options?
Most local spots offer plain, whole wheat, and sometimes specialty bagels free from dairy and eggs. Always ask at the counter to confirm, since recipes vary by baker.
What’s the best bagel flavor to try if I’m new here?
You can’t go wrong with a classic everything or sesame bagel. For something fun, try an egg or whole wheat version—two local favorites that really show off what these bakeries do best.
Do Floral Park bagel shops offer catering or larger orders?
Many do, especially A & S Bagels and Bagel Oasis. If you need a dozen or more, calling ahead is a good move to make sure they have your order ready and fresh.