There’s something about a good bagel in Nutley that calls you out of bed before the alarm even rings. Maybe it’s the scent that greets you on Franklin Avenue, or maybe it’s the quiet thrill of biting into a crust that’s crisp with a soft middle. Having spent far too many mornings hunting for the gold standard of bagels in Nutley, NJ, I can say: not all bagels are created equal. Some become part of your routine. Others stick in your memory like a New York accent.
If you ever stood in line on a chilly morning, eyeing rows of shiny, warm bagels, you know the stakes. Nutley has a surprising number of spots, from no-frills classics to cafes with a few hidden secrets. This guide narrows down your search so you skip the letdowns and land right at the good stuff. These picks are based on taste, texture, and the sort of satisfaction only a real bagel shop delivers. Get ready: your new favorite bagel might be closer than you think.
Where to find the best bagels in Nutley, NJ
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Nutley, NJ:
- BGL Bagels
- A & M
- Bagels Plus & Cafe
- John’s Hot Bagels
- The Nutley Bagel Boy
- Dunkin’
- Hot Bagels Abroad
- Cambridge Bagel Factory Inc
- Clifton Bagels
- Ridge Road Bagel Inc
1. BGL Bagels
Tucked on Washington Ave, BGL Bagels feels more like a community hub than just a breakfast stop. The smell of baking bread greets you at the door, signaling you’re in the right place. When I first tried their classic everything bagel, the crisp shell and chewy center set a new bar for me in Nutley.
What makes BGL stand out is their dedication to old-school technique—bagels here are boiled, not just baked, giving each one that perfect bite. It’s hard to resist a sesame bagel infused with a schmear of scallion cream cheese or their popular egg bagel, fluffy and warm.
Their menu goes beyond basic with inventive combos, but their plain bagel remains a standout: simple, yet unforgettable.
2. A & M
A & M sits quietly on Franklin Ave but never lacks a steady morning crowd. I remember walking in before work for the first time—the energy was friendly, and the staff moved with that practiced ease you only find at true local spots.
What makes A & M shine is their consistency. Whether you’re craving a classic poppy seed bagel or a hearty whole wheat, each option has that signature Nutley chew. Their menu features simple, well-executed choices, and every order feels like a reliable classic done right.
The cinnamon raisin bagel with a generous spread of plain cream cheese is a staple here. It’s sweet, comforting, and perfectly showcases A & M’s straightforward, quality-driven style.
3. Bagels Plus & Cafe
Bagels Plus & Cafe brings a spark to Washington Ave, blending classic bagel tradition with a pinch of cafe energy. My first visit ended with a coffee cup in one hand and a toasted bagel in the other—hard to beat that on a cold Nutley morning.
What sets this spot apart is its wide variety. From mini bagels to hearty rolls, you’ll find something to satisfy every craving. The vibe is always welcoming, whether you’re catching up on work or dropping in for a quick bite.
Their multigrain bagel, topped with veggie cream cheese, hits the mark for flavor and texture. It’s the kind of place where your go-to order might become a weekly ritual after just one try.
4. John’s Hot Bagels
(973) 542-8127Call
John’s Hot Bagels might have a low-key spot, but those in the know never skip it. My first experience here was an impromptu stop that turned into a new habit. The staff is quick, but it’s the warmth and aroma from the counter that pulls you in.
Why does John’s stand out? Simple: their bagels are always fresh, with that classic Nutley texture—neither too dense nor too light. They know how to keep things straightforward, letting each bagel’s flavor hold its own.
Their onion bagel, with a layer of chive cream cheese, is a must-try. It’s rich, savory, and highlights what makes John’s Hot Bagels a local favorite for regulars and newcomers alike.
5. The Nutley Bagel Boy
(973) 235-9113Call
At The Nutley Bagel Boy, every morning feels like you’re in on a local secret. My first stop here was on a busy weekend, and the line moved fast, fueled by regulars who all seemed to know each other. There’s an inviting, small-town vibe that’s hard to fake.
This spot stands out for its commitment to freshness and a wide variety of spreads. The cheddar bagel layered with vegetable cream cheese is a revelation—savory, tangy, and winningly soft. If you’re indecisive, you’ll never go wrong with a plain toasted bagel, simple but full of flavor.
More than just a bagel shop, Nutley Bagel Boy is about consistency and comfort, making every visit feel familiar and worth repeating.
6. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ may be a national chain, but in Nutley, it’s where many locals grab a quick morning fix. I’ve swung by more times than I can count—nothing beats knowing you can count on consistent coffee and a bite with minimal wait.
What helps Dunkin’ stand out is their efficiency; in a rush, you’re in and out with a hot bagel in hand. While their menu is broad, the cinnamon raisin bagel, toasted and paired with their classic plain cream cheese, is a dependable favorite.
While you might not find the artisan touch, Dunkin’ makes up for it with speed, reliability, and the comfort of a familiar taste no matter when you stop by.
7. Hot Bagels Abroad
Hot Bagels Abroad in Clifton earns its reputation through sheer dedication to freshness and that rare feeling of stepping into a true neighborhood institution. I remember my first visit—a quick stop turned into a much longer breakfast. The aroma alone had me hooked before my first taste.
This spot stands out for its modern approach to classic bagels. Baked fresh and served warm throughout the day, each bite is about quality and texture. The staff greets you with genuine enthusiasm, which makes even hectic mornings feel relaxed.
The sesame bagel is a highlight here—slightly crisped on the edge, perfect with vegetable cream cheese. Pair it with a coffee, and you’ll see why locals and Nutley residents often make the trip south.
8. Cambridge Bagel Factory Inc
(973) 743-5683Call
When you walk into Cambridge Bagel Factory Inc on Bloomfield Ave, it feels like you’re stepping into an old-school bakery where tradition rules the day. My first trip was on a rainy morning, and the smell of warm dough instantly changed my mood.
What makes Cambridge stand out is its focus on classic, hand-rolled bagels that strike the perfect balance between chewy and soft. They don’t mess with what works, and that’s their strength.
The poppy seed bagel, toasted and spread with their homemade cream cheese, is all about texture and flavor—satisfying and so simple. It’s the kind of spot you return to when you want comfort, reliability, and the charm of a truly local bagel.
9. Clifton Bagels
Clifton Bagels keeps things uncomplicated, and that’s a big part of its charm. Tucked near Clifton Commons, it’s the kind of place I ended up finding by word of mouth—the best kind of discovery for a bagel lover. The staff greets everyone like a regular, making the experience feel friendly and familiar right from the start.
Clifton Bagels is all about choices without overwhelming you. Their bagels are consistent, with just the right chew and a golden crust that holds up to any topping. The lineup ranges from classic plain to creative options for every preference.
If you want the real deal, try their salt bagel with scallion cream cheese. It’s bold, satisfying, and a stand-out example of the shop’s quality-first approach.
10. Ridge Road Bagel Inc
Ridge Road Bagel Inc sits quietly in Lyndhurst, but word travels fast for bagel fans in Nutley and beyond. My first visit here was on a whim, but the no-frills counter and that hint of steam on the windows had me hooked before I even placed an order.
They focus on freshness, with bagels that feel like they left the oven moments before hitting your plate. There’s an honesty here—plain, simple, done right. For those who value traditional technique and straightforward service, there’s a lot to love.
The marble rye bagel is a standout, enjoyed best with a swipe of plain or chive cream cheese. It’s the sort of spot where a classic approach keeps people coming back.
More Things to Try in Nutley, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best bagels in Nutley, NJ?
Nutley has several top-tier spots, including BGL Bagels, Bagels Plus & Cafe, and The Nutley Bagel Boy. Each offers a unique take on fresh, chewy bagels with plenty of spread options.
Are there bagel shops in Nutley that offer vegan or vegetarian options?
Yes, many local shops offer vegetarian bagels and a variety of dairy-based cream cheese spreads. For plant-based spreads, check menus or call ahead—selections can change.
Which bagel flavor is most popular in Nutley?
Everything bagels and classic plain remain crowd favorites, but cinnamon raisin and sesame also have loyal followings.
Do local bagel shops in Nutley offer catering or large orders?
Most bagel shops in Nutley are happy to accommodate catering requests or large orders for events. It’s best to call ahead to confirm availability and options.
Is there a place in Nutley to grab a bagel and coffee for breakfast?
Absolutely—just about every bagel shop on this list serves coffee with their bagels, making breakfast on the go quick and satisfying.