If you think all bagels taste alike, you probably haven’t explored Selden, NY. This town quietly serves up some of the most satisfying, memorable bagels you can find without needing a trek into the city. Whether you like your bagel soft and pillowy or crave the satisfying chew of something more traditional, Selden’s selection goes beyond the average breakfast stop.
I’ve spent far too many mornings debating between a classic plain with schmear or trying something more adventurous. The local choices made those decisions worth it, with friendly faces behind the counter who somehow always remember your usual order. Selden’s bagels aren’t about hype; they’re about comfort, fresh flavor, and those small moments that turn breakfast into something special. Settle in—this roundup highlights the best bagel spots where quality, care, and a bit of local personality meet.
Where to find the best bagels in Selden, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Selden, NY:
- Bagels Your Way Cafe
- Cella Bagel
- Zara’s Deli and Bagel
- Better On A Bagel
- Brendels Bagels – catering
- Hilltop Bagel Cafe
- Desiree Bagel
- 112 Bagels Inc
- Jmv Bagel Corp
- Farmingville Bagel
1. Bagels Your Way Cafe
Swing by Bagels Your Way Cafe and you’ll see why regulars keep coming back. The scent of fresh bagels greets you at the door, and the staff genuinely seem to enjoy the morning rush. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a perfect place for breakfast or a quick lunch break.
I find their bagels deliver the right balance of chewy and soft. There’s a comfort in ordering a classic sesame bagel with a generous smear of cream cheese; it’s always fresh and never disappoints. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, the egg sandwiches set a high bar—fluffy eggs, toasted bagels, and just the right amount of seasoning.
What sets this spot apart is the attention to detail. Every order feels like it matters. For a true taste of Selden, try their everything bagel with veggie spread. It’s simple, but you’ll remember it long after you leave.
2. Cella Bagel
Cella Bagel feels like the kind of place you stumble upon and then want to keep all to yourself. Friendly staff greet you with genuine smiles, and the bagels have a signature softness that makes each bite feel slightly indulgent. Whether you’re stopping for a quick breakfast or grabbing lunch on the go, this spot never feels rushed.
I’ve often grabbed their whole wheat bagel on a busy morning—the outside is golden, the inside perfectly light. Their classic lox and cream cheese combo stands out for freshness and generous portions.
What really sets Cella Bagel apart is their made-to-order attitude. The bagels don’t just taste fresh; they taste like someone made them with care. If you try one thing, let it be the toasted everything bagel with scallion cream cheese. Comfort, flavor, and friendly service—Cella Bagel delivers on all fronts.
3. Zara’s Deli and Bagel
Zara’s Deli and Bagel does lunch right without skimping on quality. It’s the kind of place where the bagels are just as tempting as the deli sandwiches. I’ve stopped in when the line was moving quickly, always impressed by how fast the team works without missing a beat on freshness.
The sesame bagels here hit that sweet spot between crisp crust and tender crumb, perfect when you’re in the mood for something classic. Their bagel with tuna salad is my go-to for a light but filling option. The tuna is always fresh, and the bagel holds its own until the very last bite.
What separates Zara’s is their dedication to quick, reliable service and variety—hot or cold, you never have to settle. Bagel lovers should try the toasted plain bagel with a thick layer of cream cheese. It’s straightforward, but that first bite reveals why regulars keep coming back.
4. Better On A Bagel
(631) 473-5858Call
Better On A Bagel proves that not all bagels are created equal. Tucked into Nesconset Shopping Center, this spot keeps things simple but delivers bagels with a fresh, slightly sweet chew. It’s not uncommon to see a line, but things always move briskly, and the wait pays off with warm bagels straight from the oven.
What stands out to me is the texture—smooth outside, soft on the inside. Their pumpernickel bagel with plain cream cheese brings a mild, earthy flavor that’s hard to forget. The range of options here means you can go classic or try something new every visit.
The quick service never feels rushed, and the staff greet regulars by name. If you want a taste of what they do best, try the salt bagel. It’s a local favorite, and it shows off their knack for nailing the basics with style.
5. Brendels Bagels – catering
Brendels Bagels – catering puts a fresh spin on breakfast and lunch, especially if you need to feed a crowd. Not far from Selden in Centereach, this spot is well-known for crisp bagels that never taste mass-produced. Each time I visited for a morning meeting, I noticed how the platter looked as tempting as it tasted—there’s real care in the presentation.
The honey wheat bagel always catches my eye. It’s lightly sweet and sturdy enough to handle a generous smear of cream cheese. Their signature bagels work well solo or stacked into a deli sandwich, which makes them ideal for events.
What makes Brendels outstanding is their reliability for catering and commitment to quality every time. If you’re hosting or just want to wow the office, try their assorted bagel catering spread. The selection speaks for itself and leaves no one wishing for more.
6. Hilltop Bagel Cafe
Hilltop Bagel Cafe feels like a neighborhood favorite with good reason. The selection covers more than just bagels, but the bagels are what keep me coming back. There’s an unmistakable aroma of fresh baking when you step inside, and the space always has a buzz from early risers grabbing breakfast to-go.
The jalapeño bagel is my top pick—soft with just the right kick, perfect for an upgrade from plain. They don’t skimp on bagel options either; there’s enough choice to keep things new, whether you want sweet or savory. Their bakery items and wraps round out the menu for when you’re looking to branch out.
What makes Hilltop Bagel Cafe stand out is their creative variety and consistency. If you want something classic, try their egg bagel with chive cream cheese. It’s the kind of satisfying, simple breakfast that sets the tone for a good day.
7. Desiree Bagel
(631) 846-9700Call
Desiree Bagel keeps things unfussy, with their focus firmly on old-school bagel baking. It’s the sort of place you discover by word of mouth and then wish you’d found sooner. There’s a comfortable, no-frills vibe here, which makes grabbing breakfast feel effortless.
The cinnamon raisin bagel stands out—sweet, chewy, and just the right amount of cinnamon. Warmed up, it’s perfect with plain cream cheese. If you’re looking for something more classic, their poppy seed bagel is always reliably fresh and never skimps on poppy seeds.
What sets Desiree Bagel apart is the clear pride in each batch. For simple satisfaction, try their plain bagel toasted. The combination of a crisp crust and soft center is a reminder that basics done right never go out of style.
8. 112 Bagels Inc
(631) 284-9620Call
112 Bagels Inc is the type of bagel shop where you immediately notice the care put into every small detail. The energy is always lively, with regulars chatting and the staff working with impressive speed. I find myself drawn back here for quick bites that always hit the mark on freshness and flavor.
Their egg everything bagel is a personal favorite—perfectly golden with a savory depth that makes even a simple schmear feel like a treat. The bagels come out warm and are ideal for both breakfast and lunch sandwiches.
What makes 112 Bagels Inc special is their consistency. For a classic taste of Selden, try an onion bagel with scallion cream cheese. It’s straightforward, filling, and every bite feels like it was made just for you.
9. Jmv Bagel Corp
(631) 846-6086Call
Jmv Bagel Corp doesn’t rely on trendy blends or wild ingredients. Here, the magic is in the technique—they turn out bagels with just the right chew and crust every time. Mornings here start with the tempting smell of dough baking, and you’ll see familiar faces coming in for their daily fix.
The standout from my visits is their whole wheat bagel, toasted and topped with vegetable cream cheese. It has a nutty depth that pairs well with their generous spreads. Their selection is broad, so variety lovers will always find something new to crave.
Jmv Bagel Corp stands out for its commitment to the classic bagel experience. Don’t skip their salt bagel—simple, fresh, and the ideal companion for any morning routine.
10. Farmingville Bagel
(631) 698-0218Call
Farmingville Bagel is the sort of place where the simple things are done exceptionally well. There’s always a comforting aroma of fresh bagels in the air, and the staff knows how to keep the line moving without losing their friendly touch. Every visit feels welcoming, no matter how busy they get.
The everything bagel is my constant pick here. It’s robustly seasoned, chewy, and never skimps on toppings. Paired with their classic veggie cream cheese, it turns into a breakfast worth slowing down for.
What makes Farmingville Bagel memorable is the reliability—bagels come out fresh and warm, and nothing ever feels rushed. Go for a plain bagel toasted, and you’ll see why locals have made this spot part of their morning ritual.
More Things to Try in Selden, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of bagels can I find in Selden, NY?
You’ll spot all the classics: plain, sesame, everything, poppy seed, whole wheat, and specialty flavors like cinnamon raisin or jalapeño. Most shops also offer a selection of spreads and toppings, including classic cream cheese and veggie options.
Which bagel shops in Selden, NY are known for fast service?
Bagels Your Way Cafe and Zara’s Deli and Bagel both get high marks for speed, even at peak times. Regulars mention that staff remember faces and favorite orders, giving things a personal touch.
Can I find catering or large orders of bagels in Selden?
Absolutely. Brendels Bagels – catering and Hilltop Bagel Cafe are both popular for their catering services, offering assorted platters perfect for meetings, events, or weekend gatherings.
Are there vegan or dairy-free options at local bagel shops?
Most bagel shops in Selden offer vegan bagels and a selection of dairy-free spreads. It’s best to ask ahead or check menus online, especially for specialty options.
Where can I get bagels early in the morning in Selden, NY?
Cella Bagel and Better On A Bagel open early, making them ideal spots for fresh bagels at the start of the day. You’ll usually find a warm selection ready with your first cup of coffee.