It doesn’t take much to spark a debate over bagels in Atlanta. A good one is a mix of art and science: crisp on the outside, chewy and light within, with that unmistakable aroma that pulls you in from the sidewalk. Atlanta may not be New York—but the city surprises with spots where the bagel is more than just breakfast. I spent a long stretch hopping between these cafes and bakeries, sampling, chatting, and dividing favorites with friends until we had our own ranking (and a bit of a carb-induced glow).
This guide draws on that hands-on, slightly obsessive research. Whether you crave a classic plain bagel, a sesame seed masterpiece, or something off the beaten path, this list can help you cut through the cream cheese and find the real standouts. If you’re serious about your bagels, you’ll want to see which names make the cut. Dig in, and see how Atlanta rises to the occasion—one benched breakfast staple at a time.
Where to find the best bagels in Atlanta, GA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Atlanta, GA:
- Corner Bakery Cafe
- The General Muir
- Gruby’s New York Deli
- Goldbergs Fine Foods – Battery
- 101 Bagel Cafe
- Einstein Bros. Bagels
- Goldbergs Fine Foods
- Einstein Bros. Bagels
- Goldbergs Fine Foods
- Roast Coffee House
1. Corner Bakery Cafe
Corner Bakery Cafe sits at the heart of downtown Atlanta, perfect for both a quick morning grab or a relaxed breakfast with friends. Their bagels have a gentle chew and a golden, satisfying crust, something so many chains miss. I remember ducking in during a rainstorm and leaving with a toasty bagel slathered with whipped cream cheese, the perfect mid-morning pick-me-up.
Standout service and a casual vibe set this place apart, making it easy to linger for a while. What to try? Go for their Classic Bagel with Garden Veggie Cream Cheese. The bagel holds up under generous spreads, and the herby cream cheese adds a fresh kick that gets you ready for the day. They keep things consistent, and you taste that in every bite.
2. The General Muir
The General Muir feels like stumbling into a New York deli that just happens to live in Atlanta. The atmosphere buzzes with nostalgia, thanks to black-and-white photos and that retro, clean design. I once spent a lazy Sunday morning here, splitting a bagel platter with friends, and every bite felt like a small celebration.
This spot stands out for its hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels, crafted with obvious care and a nod to tradition. Chef Todd Ginsberg and his team respect the deli craft, keeping things classic while letting the ingredients shine. For a real treat, order the Lower East Side Platter—a bagel, a generous schmear, and silky, house-smoked Nova. It’s a plate that tells you The General Muir isn’t kidding about bagels.
3. Gruby’s New York Deli
Gruby’s New York Deli brings a slice of authentic deli life to Atlanta, without losing the Southern charm. Step inside and you catch the hum of regulars chatting over morning bagels and giant sandwiches. I stopped here on a recommendation and left thinking about their bagels for days.
What sets Gruby’s apart is the classic New York-style approach—think thick, chewy bagels that land somewhere between hearty and heavenly. The menu is loaded, but if you’re all about bagels, try the Egg and Cheese Bagel Sandwich. The bagel holds up under every warm bite, with just enough chew to make you pause and appreciate. Gruby’s supplies comfort, tradition, and a lot of flavor all rolled into every order.
4. Goldbergs Fine Foods – Battery
Goldbergs Fine Foods – Battery feels like a time capsule, celebrating classic deli traditions in the middle of modern Atlanta. Decades of perfecting recipes show up in every bagel, which carry a depth of flavor and texture that’s tough to match. My visits usually start and end with a bagel, often stretched out over friendly conversation in the bright, bustling cafe.
Goldbergs stands out for consistency and an old-school touch. Every bagel comes freshly baked, pleasantly dense, and just right for hearty toppings. For a truly satisfying experience, try the Bagel with Lox and Cream Cheese. The balance is spot on—the tang from the cream cheese, the silkiness of the lox, all supported by their signature bagel. It’s simple, and it works every single time.
5. 101 Bagel Cafe
101 Bagel Cafe brings an impressive level of craft to Cumberland’s bagel scene. Each bagel is boiled, then baked fresh the classic New York way, locking in that perfect balance of chew and crispness. I drifted in one quiet morning and watched as regulars called out their usual orders—always a good sign.
The variety here is extensive, making it hard to settle on a favorite. Their Slice Nova Bagel Sandwich is an easy recommendation: silky smoked salmon, a cloud of cream cheese, and crisp veggies all layered onto a sturdy, just-baked bagel. It’s the sort of breakfast that feels like a small reward. If you need a quick lunch, the 101 Club scores for both taste and portion, but bagels are the clear star.
6. Einstein Bros. Bagels
Einstein Bros. Bagels brings a reliable touch to Atlanta’s bagel lineup. Every visit promises consistency: fresh-baked bagels, smooth cream cheese, and a lively early-morning crowd. I’ve dashed in on busy workdays and always left with something satisfying in hand.
Their breadth of flavors is eye-catching, but the Everything Bagel is the standard-bearer. It’s got a solid crunch, the right chew, and plenty of seasoning. Pair it with their garden veggie shmear for the ultimate breakfast. If you love a heartier option, try the Avocado Toast on a toasted bagel. Einstein Bros. manages to mix comfort and convenience, every single time, making it a staple stop for any bagel enthusiast.
7. Goldbergs Fine Foods
Goldbergs Fine Foods at the Atlanta Airport is the silver lining for travelers in need of good food on the go. The aroma of fresh bagels makes it a welcome pause between flights, far above your standard airport fare. I grabbed a bagel here once during a layover and was surprised at how fresh and flavorful it tasted, even in the airport rush.
Goldbergs shines by bringing their deli roots to a busy terminal. The bagels are dense, with that satisfying chew and pleasant crust, perfect for holding up under classic toppings. The Bagel with a schmear or their Veggie Bagel Sandwich are top picks for travelers wanting something simple yet substantial. It’s a taste of tradition, delivered at jet speed.
8. Einstein Bros. Bagels
This Einstein Bros. Bagels outpost on Howell Mill Road is one of those places where mornings feel a little more welcoming. The staff always manages a smile, and the bagels consistently land on the right side of fresh. I’ve grabbed my share of bagels here during early errand runs—fast, convenient, and never disappointing.
Standouts include the Chive Bagel with Plain Shmear and their hearty Bagel & Egg Sandwich. The chive bagel packs flavor into every bite, and the egg sandwich is just filling enough to last you until lunch. Good coffee and crisp service make it easy to become a regular. For a reliable start or midday fuel, this Einstein Bros. hits all the marks for bagel lovers.
9. Goldbergs Fine Foods
Goldbergs Fine Foods on Roswell Road offers that rare combination of nostalgia and genuine quality. This location beams with deli tradition; regulars and newcomers mingle over steaming coffee and unmistakably fresh bagels. I remember my first visit—a rainy morning that brightened up with a perfectly toasted bagel and the comfort of friendly service.
Goldbergs stands out for its unwavering commitment to classic flavors and generous portions. The Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese is a simple but satisfying choice, each bite packed with robust seasoning and a soft yet sturdy crumb. If you want more, the Bagel & Lox Platter is a classic done right, highlighting why this spot has remained a crowd favorite for so long.
10. Roast Coffee House
+1 404-530-2758
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Roast Coffee House, tucked inside Atlanta’s airport, is the kind of hidden gem you wish you found every layover. Their bagels are a notch above typical airport fare—a rare find when you’re in transit and craving something real. I grabbed one with coffee before a flight and was impressed by how fresh it tasted despite the bustling crowd.
This spot keeps things simple and satisfying. A classic Bagel with Plain Cream Cheese pairs perfectly with their rich coffee, giving you a quick but substantial bite that carries you through a busy travel day. What sets Roast apart is the care behind even the most basic order, leaving you with a little more comfort as you dash to your gate.
More Things to Try in Atlanta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best New York-style bagels in Atlanta?
You’ll want to try places like The General Muir, Goldbergs Fine Foods, and 101 Bagel Cafe. Each takes the traditional New York approach—think hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels with that ideal mix of crunch and chew.
Are there any good vegetarian or vegan bagel options in Atlanta?
Absolutely. Most bagel shops in Atlanta, including Corner Bakery Cafe and Einstein Bros. Bagels, offer vegetarian-friendly bagels and a variety of plant-based spreads. Some even have vegan options, so you’re never short on choices.
Which bagel shops in Atlanta offer gluten-free options?
Many of the city’s popular spots, like Corner Bakery Cafe and The General Muir, have gluten-free bagels or breakfast items. Always call ahead to check for availability or ask about prep practices if you have dietary needs.
Is it easy to find a good bagel near Atlanta’s airport?
Yes, Goldbergs Fine Foods and Roast Coffee House both have locations right in the airport, offering quality bagels for travelers who don’t want to settle for generic snacks.
What’s the best bagel flavor to try in Atlanta?
You can’t go wrong with a classic Everything Bagel, but locals also rave about chive, sesame, and egg bagels. It’s worth sampling a few to find your favorite signature bite.