Looking for the best bagels in Brooklyn? Here’s some honest news: Brooklyn bagels have a reputation they actually deserve. There’s something about the crisp bite and chewy heart of a Brooklyn-style bagel that leaves even out-of-towners haunted by cravings. I’ve strolled every inch of this borough—on chilly mornings and rainy afternoons—chasing the smell of fresh dough, watching old pros on the other side of the counter work their magic. You might think you know bagels, but Brooklyn takes this daily staple to another level.
Navigating Brooklyn’s bagel scene is equal parts adventure and education. Forget the flashy bagel chains. Here it’s the small-batch shops and neighborhood classics that stand out. You’ll find every shape, size, and topping spread across the borough, from airy, poppy-seeded rounds to dense, everything-bagel masterpieces. Whether you want a morning classic with scallion cream cheese or a lunchtime sandwich, this guide covers the best spots to get a Brooklyn bagel worth talking about. Hungry yet? Let’s dig in.
Where to find the best bagels in Brooklyn, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Brooklyn, NY:
- Peter Pan Bakery
- Time Out Market New York
- The Bagel Store
- Mile End Delicatessen
- Bagelsmith
- La Bagel Delight
- Bagel Pub
- Bergen Bagels
- Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe
- Bagel Pub
1. Peter Pan Bakery
Nestled in Greenpoint, Peter Pan Bakery is as much a community landmark as it is a place for breakfast. Old-school charm shines through every detail, from the pastel counters to the steady clatter of regulars grabbing their morning fix. I once waited in a line that stretched out the door, but the reward was worth every minute—a bagel so fresh it was still warm in my hand.
Their bagels boast a crisp shell and soft, satisfying chew. The everything bagel with scallion cream cheese is a classic with good reason. It’s proof that simple things, done right, pack the biggest flavor. If you crave nostalgia with your morning meal, Peter Pan makes each bite taste like Brooklyn tradition.
2. Time Out Market New York
Time Out Market New York turns bagel hunting into a food lover’s field trip. Housed by the waterfront in DUMBO, the market brings together offerings from the city’s most-loved chefs. I grabbed a spot by the windows one morning, bagel in hand, and watched the skyline blur through my coffee steam—now that’s a classic Brooklyn moment.
With so many vendors under one roof, the bagel options are always fresh and inventive. Many flock here for a hearty bagel with smoked salmon and dill cream cheese—a signature pairing that lands just right for breakfast or brunch. Expect bold flavors with a local twist, and bagels that stand up to their stellar surroundings. The buzz, the view, and the bagels make this spot a must-visit.
3. The Bagel Store
The Bagel Store is a slice of Brooklyn creativity tucked along 5th Avenue. Known everywhere for inventing the rainbow bagel, this spot is a playground for bagel lovers who like tradition and surprise in equal measure. My first visit had me torn between snapping pictures and just taking that first bite—the colors look unreal, but the flavor is all New York.
The rainbow bagel with sweet cream cheese is a house favorite and a whimsical twist that actually delivers on taste. If you lean classic, their old-fashioned bagels and bialys show real artisan skill, each bite chewy and full of character. At The Bagel Store, every bagel is a little bit of fun and a lot of Brooklyn pride.
4. Mile End Delicatessen
Mile End Delicatessen brings a Montreal twist to the heart of Brooklyn. This cozy spot in Boerum Hill feels like the perfect fusion of New York energy and Canadian comfort food. On my last visit, the aroma of fresh-baked bread and cured meats convinced me to stay long past breakfast hours.
Their bagels, boiled and baked to a gentle crunch, are handled with real deli know-how. Try a bagel with smoked whitefish salad or classic gravlax. It’s the kind of meal that sticks with you—warm, humble, and beautifully balanced. Mile End excels at making familiar tastes feel new, and every bagel sandwich proves that tradition thrives when it’s treated with respect.
5. Bagelsmith
Bagelsmith sits at the edge of Williamsburg and keeps the neighborhood fueled all day. There’s nothing fancy here—just a lineup of solid, honest bagels made by people who know what they’re doing. I remember grabbing a fresh sesame bagel at dawn, grateful for the way the steam and seeds hit at that early hour.
What makes Bagelsmith special is consistency. The bagels hit that sweet spot: firm bite, chewy inside, and never dry. Go for a classic combo, like an everything bagel loaded with veggie cream cheese, and you’ll understand what brings New Yorkers back again and again. Straightforward, filling, and always satisfying, Bagelsmith is where tradition becomes a daily habit.
6. La Bagel Delight
La Bagel Delight draws a steady morning crowd in DUMBO—and for good reason. This place reminds me of the old Brooklyn corner spots, where the staff greets regulars with a nod and everyone knows exactly what they want. The bagels come out hot, golden, and bigger than most, each one a meal on its own.
The menu boasts a range of cream cheeses and veggie fillings, but the standout is the simple everything bagel with scallion cream cheese. Perfect texture, perfect balance. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their veggie-loaded sandwich—it’s hearty, colorful, and always fresh. La Bagel Delight nails that just-right balance of neighborhood warmth and serious bagel craft.
7. Bagel Pub
Bagel Pub on Franklin Ave is a spot I wandered into on a lazy Sunday and left wanting to become a regular. This bright, bustling shop serves up bagels that rise well above the neighborhood average. Watching their crew smoothly handle a line out the door adds to the sense of reliable, old-school know-how.
Their hallmark is variety and freshness. From pumpernickel to cinnamon raisin, the bagels are sturdy yet airy, never dense or bland. The avocado and egg sandwich on an everything bagel won me over—packed, simple, and proof that sometimes basics win. A stop at Bagel Pub always means options, and every bagel is a reminder of why Brooklyn takes its breakfast so seriously.
8. Bergen Bagels
Bergen Bagels sits quietly on Bergen Street, but the buzz inside is anything but mellow. My introduction to their bagels came on a hurried Monday, but even with a line, service moved fast and easy. The bagels here feel honest—substantial without being too heavy, and always with that classic Brooklyn bite.
Their whole wheat and sesame bagels stand out for their nutty flavor and perfect crust. If you’re into savory, try a bagel with house-made vegetable cream cheese or a lox-and-veggie combo—consistently fresh and generously layered. The staff gets the balance right: friendly, efficient, and always willing to pile your bagel high. Bergen Bagels turns the everyday bagel run into something you’ll actually look forward to.
9. Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe
Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe is one of those places that feels anchored to its neighborhood. The space has a cozy, timeless vibe—think faded tile floors and a counter where regulars chat over coffee. I once ducked in during a rainstorm, and the warmth of a fresh bagel here shifted the whole day.
Their plain and poppy seed bagels are perfectly baked, with a just-right crust and a tender inside. The signature move? Try a toasted bagel with a thick schmear of chive cream cheese. Every bite is a little piece of comfort. Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe is for those mornings when only a classic bagel will do—and it never disappoints.
10. Bagel Pub
Bagel Pub on 9th Street keeps Park Slope well supplied with quality bagels and a laid-back atmosphere. My first visit was fueled by curiosity and hunger, and I walked out with a bagel sandwich that set the tone for the rest of my day.
Bagel Pub stands out for its generous portions and huge menu. You’ll spot everything from straightforward bagel-and-cream cheese deals to inventive veggie combos. If pressed, I always go for their whole wheat everything bagel with cucumber, avocado, and a swipe of plain cream cheese. It’s crisp, fresh, and filling. Whether you’re in a rush or settling in with a coffee, Bagel Pub is a spot where there’s always something good waiting on the menu.
More Things to Try in Brooklyn, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Brooklyn bagels different?
Brooklyn bagels are known for a chewy inside and a crisp shell. Most shops here boil their dough before baking, which gives bagels their signature bite and glossy finish. A fresh Brooklyn bagel is often bigger and more flavorful than what you’ll find elsewhere.
Are there vegan or vegetarian bagel options in Brooklyn?
Absolutely. Many bagel shops in Brooklyn offer vegan bagels and a range of non-dairy spreads and vegetable fillings. Look for options like hummus, avocado, or tofu cream cheese for a plant-based meal.
What are the most popular bagel flavors in Brooklyn?
The top picks are usually everything, sesame, poppy seed, and plain. For something classic, try an everything bagel with scallion cream cheese. Each shop may offer special blends, so it’s worth sampling a few.
Are there gluten-free bagels in Brooklyn?
Yes, several shops carry gluten-free bagels, though the selection can vary. It’s wise to call ahead or check the menu online to find out what’s available.
Do Brooklyn bagel shops serve breakfast all day?
Most bagel shops in Brooklyn serve breakfast and bagel sandwiches throughout the day. It’s never too late for a bagel run here.
Which bagel toppings are a must-try?
Cream cheese classics like scallion or veggie are favorites. For heartier options, try lox, whitefish salad, or classic egg salads. Nearly every spot adds its own twist, so don’t be afraid to experiment.