The search for the best bagels in San Francisco can feel like chasing the city’s ever-present fog—mysterious, tempting, and sometimes, surprisingly rewarding. San Francisco isn’t New York, but anyone who thinks this city can’t deliver a crave-worthy bagel hasn’t looked hard enough. I’ve spent early mornings zigzagging from North Beach to the Richmond District, watching dough curl into majestic circles and arguing whether “chewy” really is the highest praise. If you’re serious about finding a bagel that stands up to a proper schmear, you’re in the right place.
Bagel fans come in all types—there are purists, spread enthusiasts, toasted-til-crispy devotees, and breakfast sandwiched believers. My own journey has taught me to measure a bagel not just by its bite but by its character. San Francisco’s bagel scene is quietly competitive, with spots putting their own spin on tradition and quality. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia or just a fantastic bite, let’s dive into where you’ll find the city’s standouts, no passport to Brooklyn required.
Where to find the best bagels in San Francisco, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in San Francisco, CA:
- Eight Am
- Darren’s Cafe
- Honey Honey Cafe & Crepery
- Roxanne Cafe
- Caffe Greco
- Posh Bagel
- Crostini & Java
- Mo’z Cafe
- Beanstalk Cafe
- 901 Columbus Cafe
1. Eight Am
Eight Am sits on the corner of Columbus Ave, inviting you in with bright charm and a crowd that always seems to know a good breakfast. Their bagels nail the balance between soft inside and golden crust—a rare feat west of Manhattan. I once grabbed their toasted bagel with smoked salmon after a long bay walk, and the freshness hit like a midday breeze.
What sets Eight Am apart is attention to detail. The spreads are lively without drowning out the bagel itself. If you want something classic, go for their bagel with cream cheese and fresh tomato. Craving more? The avocado bagel is a West Coast nod you won’t regret. Eight Am’s menu proves simple can still stun.
2. Darren’s Cafe
+1 415-673-3345
Darren’s Cafe brings a no-fuss approach to mornings on Taylor Street, where the clink of coffee cups and the aroma of fresh bread set the vibe. The bagels here feel homemade in the best way—dense, fresh, and never dry. I once ducked in during a drizzle, where a warm bagel with their veggie spread became the highlight of a gray day.
Darren’s stands out for its comforting, local feel. There’s a familial pace here, as if breakfast is meant to be savored, not rushed. If you’re browsing the menu, try the bagel with house-made herbed cream cheese. The flavors are gentle but lingering, paired well with a side of fruit or their simple eggs.
Your morning gets a little brighter at Darren’s, bite by satisfying bite.
3. Honey Honey Cafe & Crepery
Honey Honey Cafe & Crepery is the sort of spot where you could spend half the morning people-watching and the other half debating what to order next. Their bagels are consistently fresh, with just enough bite and a comforting aroma that mixes with the smell of brewing coffee. I still remember a rainy Saturday spent tucked near their window, savoring a toasted bagel with sun-dried tomato cream cheese and a splash of hot tea.
Versatility is Honey Honey’s strength. You’ll find vegan and gluten-free options, but also creative spreads. The bagel with lox and crisp vegetables gives a little coastal luxury without fuss. Honey Honey’s approach is simple, fresh, and unfailingly satisfying.
4. Roxanne Cafe
Roxanne Cafe sits on Powell Street, close enough to the cable car clangs that you feel right in the heart of San Francisco. Their bagels hit that sweet spot between chewy and toasty, excellent when you want something classic with a dash of city atmosphere. My go-to is their bagel with cream cheese and sliced avocado, a light but satisfying choice that’s become my unofficial breakfast before early meetings.
What really sets Roxanne Cafe apart is the balance of simplicity and freshness. The staff treat regulars and first-timers alike, making every breakfast feel unrushed. If you like options, try a bagel with egg and spinach. Roxanne’s lets natural flavors shine, delivering a breakfast that doesn’t feel fussy.
5. Caffe Greco
Caffe Greco has a timeless North Beach energy, with outdoor tables perfect for watching the city’s slow wake-up. Their bagels are properly hearty, served warm and with just the right density—not quite New York, but satisfyingly close. I once stopped in for a quick bite and ended up lingering over a bagel with smoked salmon, savoring each layer of fresh flavor.
Caffe Greco offers a distinct Italian spin on the classic café experience. If you’re in the mood for a bagel, pair it with cream cheese and tomato. This combo highlights their quality ingredients and the café’s knack for keeping things straightforward. Caffe Greco keeps the tradition alive, one perfect bagel at a time.
6. Posh Bagel
Posh Bagel on Sutter Street is a favorite among locals who know the difference between a passable bagel and a memorable one. Their bagels have that ideal balance of soft and chewy inside with a well-baked crust. I’ve ducked in more than once during a busy morning to find their jalapeño cheddar bagel hot out of the oven—a real mood booster.
Variety sets Posh Bagel apart. You’ll find flavors ranging from sesame to sundried tomato, all complemented by a generous selection of spreads. If you want a San Francisco spin, try the bagel topped with avocado and tomato. Posh Bagel is proof that quality and creativity can go hand in hand, morning or noon.
7. Crostini & Java
Crostini & Java is a neighborhood gem with global roots, nestled quietly on Hyde Street. The bagels here are soft with a subtle tang, paired perfectly with small-batch coffee. My last stop saw me biting into their avocado bagel—a simple creation that felt fresh and thoughtfully prepared, a nice break from the usual routine.
The café’s style is unfussy, yet quality-driven. You can grab a classic bagel with cream cheese or branch out with their popular English Breakfast bagel sandwich—think eggs and fresh veggies, all held together by a sturdy bagel base. Crostini & Java leans into comfort, serving up bagels that suit any craving without ever feeling complicated.
8. Mo’z Cafe
Mo’z Cafe sits at the corner of Fifth Street, drawing in everyone from early risers to late brunch seekers. The bagels are fresh and soft, always toasted to a satisfying crunch. I remember a rainy afternoon when their veggie bagel sandwich—stacked with tomatoes, cucumbers, sprouts, and a generous smear of cream cheese—turned a gloomy day around.
Mo’z stands out for its friendly, neighborhood energy and the wide range of options. Whether you need gluten-free or want to go vegan, you’ll find a tasty bagel to match. Try their smoked salmon and capers bagel if you want a bit of coastal flavor without the flash. Mo’z proves that good food and easygoing vibes make a winning combo.
9. Beanstalk Cafe
Beanstalk Cafe feels cheerful and a bit whimsical, tucked away on Bush Street like a neighborhood secret. The bagels carry that perfect morning aroma and are always fresh, with just enough chew. My last visit found me sitting by the window with their turkey and avocado bagel, which hit all the right notes between hearty and light.
The real charm lies in Beanstalk’s menu variety and welcoming vibe. If you’re in the mood for something different, try the hummus and veggie bagel—a nice twist that shows how this cafe puts a creative spin on breakfast basics. Beanstalk Cafe keeps things uncomplicated but always delivers on flavor and freshness, making every visit worthwhile.
10. 901 Columbus Cafe
901 Columbus Cafe is the kind of place where you can settle in and feel part of the local rhythm. The bagels come warm with a real, honest texture—never doughy, always satisfying. I once found myself escaping the city rush here, lingering over a classic bagel slathered in cream cheese with a side of fresh fruit.
What makes 901 Columbus stand out is its easygoing mix of comfort and quality. You’ll spot regulars coming in for their favorite coffee and a bagel, unhurried and content. For something a bit different, go with the bagel topped with eggs and avocado. This cafe understands that sometimes, simple pleasures are the best kind.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best bagels in San Francisco?
You’ll find great bagels all over the city. Standouts include Wise Sons Deli, House of Bagels, Posh Bagel, and neighborhood favorites like Beanstalk Cafe and Eight Am.
Are there traditional New York-style bagels in San Francisco?
Yes, a handful of spots bring authentic New York-style flavor. House of Bagels and Wise Sons Deli are especially known for their classic, chewy bagels.
Do San Francisco bagel shops offer vegan or gluten-free options?
Many local shops offer vegan and gluten-free bagels. Places like Honey Honey Cafe & Crepery, Mo’z Cafe, and Beanstalk Cafe have a good range of choices for different dietary needs.
Is it easy to find bagels with unique toppings in San Francisco?
Absolutely. Look for bagels topped with avocado, sundried tomato, veggie spreads, or smoked salmon. Many cafes like Posh Bagel and Crostini & Java experiment beyond the plain cream cheese.
Are there any standout bagel sandwiches to try?
Yes, the smoked salmon and capers bagel at Mo’z Cafe, the jalapeño cheddar at Posh Bagel, and veggie-packed bagels at Crostini & Java are all local favorites.
Which neighborhood has the best variety of bagel shops?
North Beach, the Financial District, and the Richmond District offer a rich selection of quality bagel shops, each with its own style.