Bagels in Asheville have a quiet charm—never flashy, always satisfying. Stumbling into a local coffee shop one rainy morning, I ordered a plain, lightly toasted bagel. The first bite pulled me back to that city street in Brooklyn, minus the rush. Asheville’s bagels have a personality that stands on its own, whether you like them chewy, golden, or simply paired with cream cheese and a strong cup of coffee.
Exploring Asheville’s bagel scene, you’ll discover a spread of local spots that take their carb game seriously. From cozy corner cafés to bustling bakeries, these places don’t just make bagels—they create whole experiences around them. Whether you’re a classic purist or chasing the unexpected, there’s a bagel with your name on it in this city. Let’s take a look at where to find the best of the bunch.
Where to find the best bagels in Asheville, NC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Asheville, NC:
- High Five Coffee
- Bruegger’s Bagels
- Ultra Coffeebar
- Odd’s Cafe
- West End Bakery and Cafe
- Mosaic Cafe
- Penny Cup Coffee Co
- Bruegger’s Bagels
- Izzy’s Coffee Den
- BattleCat Coffee Bar
1. High Five Coffee
High Five Coffee has that laid-back Asheville energy mixed with serious coffee chops. I remember showing up before sunrise, half awake, only to be brought to life by the aroma of fresh beans and bagels crisping in the toaster. The baristas here know both their espresso and their bagels, striking the perfect balance for a satisfying breakfast.
This spot stands out for the simple care put into every order. You can grab a classic bagel to go, or linger with a toasted everything bagel dressed in cream cheese. Pair it with a cappuccino—they blend rich, bold coffee with subtle bagel flavors like no one else in town. If you’re hoping for a spot that sets the tone for your day, this is it.
2. Bruegger’s Bagels
Bruegger’s Bagels feels a bit like bagel heaven for anyone craving that New York bite right in Asheville. I grabbed an egg bagel with veggie cream cheese here once on my way to the Blue Ridge Parkway—nothing fancy, but the freshness was undeniable. Each bagel has that signature chewy texture and golden crust, making a case for simplicity done well.
What really sets Bruegger’s apart is consistency. Walk in, and you know you’ll get a warm bagel baked that very morning. Their classic everything bagel with a smother of their Vermont-sourced cream cheese is a must-try. For those who like more, the lunch sandwich options on a sesame bagel offer reliable comfort. Bruegger’s makes it easy to satisfy a serious bagel craving fast.
3. Ultra Coffeebar
+1 828-253-2177
Ultra Coffeebar sits tucked into the River Arts District, with sunlight pouring through big windows and the sound of espresso steaming in the air. I wandered in during a morning stroll and was greeted by a case of house-made bagels that looked almost too pretty to eat. The vibe is creative, relaxed, and unhurried—perfect for savoring your breakfast.
What makes Ultra Coffeebar stand out is their commitment to fresh, local ingredients. Try the sesame bagel with scallion cream cheese; it’s a crunchy, herby experience that wakes up the senses. There are vegan and vegetarian choices too, which feel right at home next to bold espresso drinks. If creative breakfasts are your thing, Ultra is the spot to slow down and dig in.
4. Odd’s Cafe
Odd’s Cafe greets you with the hum of espresso and the easy, eclectic spirit of West Asheville. I once ducked in during a rainstorm and watched regulars chat over mugs while the staff pulled espresso shots with real care. What sets Odd’s apart is not just its local brews, but the way it celebrates unique flavors and connections.
The New York bagels here are baked fresh and paired with inventive schmears. Try an everything bagel with their tangy, herbed cream cheese for a bite that’s equal parts classic and creative. Counter Culture Coffee is the perfect sidekick—get a Dreamer Latte with lavender and local honey for something truly memorable. Odd’s brings fun and flavor together every morning, and it feels like a neighborhood tradition.
5. West End Bakery and Cafe
West End Bakery and Cafe has that warm, bustling energy you want in a local spot. Wandering in, I noticed the case overflowing with fresh baked goods and the happy clatter from regulars ordering their usual. This place has been an Asheville staple for over two decades, blending local flavor with comfort food staples.
Their bagels come out golden with a gentle chew, and the toppings are refreshingly real—think garden veggies, herbed spreads, and just enough crunch. The house specialty is the breakfast bagel sandwich—the flavors are honest, and the ingredients speak for themselves. With vegan and gluten-free options alongside organic coffee, West End Bakery knows how to welcome everyone’s breakfast craving without compromise.
6. Mosaic Cafe
Mosaic Cafe pulls you in with its sunlit space and easygoing style. My first visit involved a window seat and a bagel that tasted far fresher than anything I’d expected from a breakfast run. There’s a real sense of care behind each plate, and you feel it as soon as you take a bite.
The cafe stands out for its creative breakfast and brunch menu. The asiago bagel with fresh veggie toppings is a favorite—melty, crunchy, and smoky all at once. Mosaic’s focus on quality ingredients means each bagel is satisfying without any fuss. If you need somewhere with vegan and vegetarian options, you’ll have plenty to choose from here. It’s a simple pleasure done right.
7. Penny Cup Coffee Co
Penny Cup Coffee Co immediately feels like Asheville distilled—local, lively, and full of character. On my last visit, the smell of coffee roasting filled the space and the counter was stacked with fresh pastries. Their bagel sandwiches are simple, but made to order, so every bite lands hot and fresh.
What makes Penny Cup stand out is their small-batch attention to everything on the menu. Try the classic bagel sandwich with garden veggies and herbed cream cheese, or go for a straightforward toasted bagel paired with their bold drip coffee. If you’re after gluten-free or vegan options, they’re ready for you too. It’s the sort of spot where coffee and bagels work together, not one outshining the other.
8. Bruegger’s Bagels
Bruegger’s Bagels on Merrimon Avenue is a consistent go-to when the craving is real. The last time I stopped by, the morning rush was in full swing, yet the staff kept things personable and quick. The real highlight here is the classic New York-style bagel—the golden crust, the perfect chew, and that unmistakable aroma as you walk in.
This spot stands out because every bagel gets baked on site daily. The everything bagel with made-in-Vermont cream cheese is always reliable, but if you have time, try a breakfast bagel sandwich loaded up with veggies. It’s simple, filling, and delivers exactly what you hope for. Sometimes, a strong coffee and a fresh bagel are all you really need to start the day right.
9. Izzy’s Coffee Den
Izzy’s Coffee Den has that lived-in, creative vibe that’s unmistakably Asheville. During a quiet afternoon, I grabbed a seat by the window, sipped strong coffee, and watched locals drift in for their usual. It’s the kind of spot where small details—art on the wall, the clatter of conversation—make you want to linger over breakfast.
Bagels at Izzy’s are straightforward but never skimp on quality. Try a toasted plain or sesame bagel with herbed cream cheese for a solid start to your day. There’s no fuss, just thoughtfully prepared food and drinks. The charm here is in the relaxed attitude and the people around you. If you come for a bagel and decide to stay for another coffee, you won’t be the only one.
10. BattleCat Coffee Bar
BattleCat Coffee Bar is a neighborhood hangout fueled by strong coffee and vintage charm. The first time I stopped here, I ended up chatting with a barista who handed over a bagel that was still warm from the toaster. It’s unpretentious, a little quirky, and the kind of place where you can lose track of time.
Bagels are a staple here, often paired with thick spreads and fresh veggies. The go-to order is a whole wheat bagel topped with avocado and tomato—simple, filling, and full of flavor. With a cup of rich drip coffee on the side, it’s easy to see why BattleCat has regulars who treat it as a second living room.
More Things to Try in Asheville, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best bagels in Asheville, NC?
You’ll find great bagels at local favorites like High Five Coffee, Ultra Coffeebar, West End Bakery and Cafe, and Bruegger’s Bagels. Each spot offers its own take, from classic chewy rounds to loaded breakfast sandwiches.
Do any Asheville bagel shops offer vegan or gluten-free options?
Yes, several places such as West End Bakery and Ultra Coffeebar offer vegan or gluten-free choices. Always check with the shop for the latest options since menus can change.
Which Asheville café serves authentic New York-style bagels?
Bruegger’s Bagels stands out for their true New York-style bagels. Expect that familiar crust and chewy middle any New Yorker would recognize.
Are there local bagel shops with specialty cream cheeses?
Definitely. Try Odd’s Cafe or Penny Cup Coffee Co for house-made or herbed spreads that add something extra to your morning.
Can I get a quick takeout bagel breakfast in Asheville?
Many bagel shops and cafés, like High Five Coffee and Bruegger’s, offer fast counter service and make takeout easy for busy mornings.