Trying to track down a great bagel in Cleveland is no small feat. You’re greeted by options at every turn—chewy classics, golden crusts, and the scent of something toasted to perfection wafting from busy corners. I still remember the first time I bit into a local sesame bagel that seemed to strike the right chord between soft center and crisp exterior. It’s fair to say my weekend routines have become a little obsessive, driven by the search for that ultimate bagel experience.
Cleveland’s bagel scene is more rich and varied than most would guess. Whether you’re after traditional, no-nonsense rounds, or flavor-packed experiments, the city delivers with quiet confidence. The spots featured here owe their followings to consistent quality, hand-rolled skill, and genuine warmth. If you’ve ever wondered where to find the type of bagel that gets people talking, consider this your guide to the best in town—each with a distinct story and flavor worth discovering.
Where to find the best bagels in Cleveland, OH
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Cleveland, OH:
- Jack’s Deli & Restaurant
- Bialy’s Bagels
- Einstein Bros. Bagels
- Cleveland Bagel
- Bruegger’s Bagels
- Bruegger’s Bagels
- The Bagel Shoppe
- Fortune Cafe
- Cleveland Bagel Company
- Dunkin’
1. Jack’s Deli & Restaurant
Jack’s Deli & Restaurant has been a local icon for decades, serving up generous helpings of tradition in every meal. Step inside and you’ll notice a buzz of regulars, a waft of fresh bread, and an old-school vibe that feels both familiar and comforting.
The bagels here are hearty, chewy, and perfectly matched with their house-made spreads. The lox and cream cheese bagel is a must-try, built with care and the right ratio of fresh toppings to carb. For a classic kick, the veggie bagel comes piled high with crisp veggies and creamy cheese—simple, but always on point.
Jack’s stands out for its attention to detail and a menu full of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making it easy for anyone to find their bagel match. The friendly service keeps things moving, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy a piece of Cleveland bagel history.
2. Bialy’s Bagels
Bialy’s Bagels is a Cleveland staple, where mornings begin with the irresistible aroma of golden, hand-rolled bagels. Even standing in line here feels like a city tradition. My first visit? Let’s just say the queue moved fast, but the memories lingered much longer.
Bialy’s stands out for its dedication to the craft—no frills, just simple, chewy perfection. The plain bagel is a local legend, but the sesame and poppy seed varieties are always in high demand. Each bagel has a distinctive chew, thanks to decades-old techniques and a recipe that hasn’t needed changing.
Order a bialy if they have it—slightly flatter than a bagel, filled with sweet onions, and impossible to replicate elsewhere. The takeout setup keeps things moving, so you can enjoy fresh bagels in minutes.
3. Einstein Bros. Bagels
Einstein Bros. Bagels has a reliable presence right near the heart of Cleveland’s university district. The spot feels lively in the morning, filled with a mix of students and professionals grabbing breakfast to fuel their day. Stopping here before work means catching that fresh-baked aroma and the promise of something satisfying and portable.
Their “Everything” bagel is a fan favorite for good reason—crisp edges, a soft interior, and bold seasoning in every bite. Breakfast sandwiches pile on eggs, cheese, and veggies, making them both hearty and quick. You’ll find plenty of choices, so building your own bagel combo is easy and fun.
Coffee pairs well with nearly anything on the menu, rounding out a quick, classic stop for busy mornings or quick lunches. Consistency is the name of the game here, and that’s exactly what you get.
4. Cleveland Bagel
Cleveland Bagel is where bagel cravings meet true craftsmanship. The first time I walked in, the scent of fresh dough was so good, I immediately knew this place takes the basics seriously. The lines on weekends are proof that you’re not alone in the hunt for Cleveland’s best bagel.
Technique is king here—each bagel is hand-rolled and slow-fermented, giving you a perfect texture with every bite. Their rosemary and sea salt bagel is a personal favorite, with a fragrant, savory profile that stands up to any topping.
Classic schmears and creative spreads round out the menu, while daily specials keep regulars guessing. Whether you go for a simple bagel and cream cheese or something more ambitious, expect a bagel that’s sturdy, flavorful, and always fresh.
5. Bruegger’s Bagels
Bruegger’s Bagels brings a touch of New York to Cleveland with bagels baked fresh every morning. Walking in, you’re enveloped by the nostalgic scent of toasty crusts, turning even the shortest stop into a highlight of the day. Their cheerful staff keeps the line moving, even when the morning crowd descends.
Signature made-in-Vermont cream cheese slathered on any of their classic bagels is always a safe bet. The asiago bagel is a standout, layered with a rich cheese flavor and a golden crunch that pairs perfectly with their garden veggie spread.
Bagel breakfast sandwiches offer a quick, satisfying option for anyone craving a warm start. If you find yourself on the run, the ordering app makes things simple, so your next great bagel is never far away.
6. Bruegger’s Bagels
Catching a flight out of Cleveland Hopkins usually means a stop at Bruegger’s Bagels in the main terminal. Even on the busiest mornings, their New York-style bagels offer a reliable pick-me-up before heading to your gate. There’s a quiet comfort in knowing you can grab something quality without wandering far from your departure.
Vegetarian-friendly choices and a solid range of classic bagels make this spot a winner for all kinds of travelers. The cinnamon sugar bagel, slathered with their signature made-in-Vermont cream cheese, is a favorite of mine when I need a sweet boost before a long flight.
Efficiency is key at this location, with a takeout setup that moves fast, and staff who know how to handle the rush. Perfect if you want to travel with something fresh, warm, and satisfying in hand.
7. The Bagel Shoppe
The Bagel Shoppe is a cozy neighborhood spot that draws regulars from across Cleveland’s east side. It’s the place where the staff remember your order and the counter is never short of friendly conversation. I once dropped in on a chilly morning and left with a bag of bagels so fresh, the steam fogged up my car windows.
Freshness is everything here—bagels come out warm, crusty, and perfectly chewy. The classic plain is always excellent, but the pumpernickel stands out for its deep flavor and subtle sweetness, making it an ideal canvas for a generous layer of cream cheese.
Compared to big chains, The Bagel Shoppe focuses on quality over flash, serving up a smaller menu that puts flavor and tradition first. You’ll taste a little extra care in every bite—this is where bagel lovers become loyal fans.
8. Fortune Cafe
(440) 772-0414Call
Fortune Cafe makes the most of its mobile roots, popping up at farmers markets and city corners with a menu that keeps people coming back. My first try was unplanned—a stop for coffee ended with a bagel so soft and flavorful it turned into my new favorite breakfast.
This spot stands out for its creative approach and commitment to freshness. Each bagel is baked with care, free from shortcuts, and offers that unmistakable just-made texture. The everything bagel, generously seeded and paired with house-made veggie spread, is a real highlight.
What makes Fortune Cafe memorable is how approachable and cheerful the staff are, even during the morning rush. If you spot their truck, don’t hesitate—they tend to sell out fast, and for good reason.
9. Cleveland Bagel Company
Cleveland Bagel Company has become a must-visit for real bagel fans in Ohio City. The shop always buzzes with the sound of slicing, spreading, and satisfied customers. My first encounter left me impressed with how each bagel boasted a glossy crust and a hearty center, signaling traditional technique in every batch.
Hand-rolled, boiled, and baked daily, their bagels deliver a distinct texture—chewy, never dense, always fresh. The sea salt bagel is a standout, topped with just the right touch of mineral crunch. For something a little different, try their rosemary bagel, enhanced with aromatic herbs that elevate any simple spread.
The focus on small-batch quality and welcoming staff make each visit feel like a taste of local pride. Don’t miss their house-made cream cheese options, which are always bold and inventive.
10. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ is the go-to for a quick bagel fix in downtown Cleveland, especially when time is tight but quality matters. Whenever I’ve needed a speedy breakfast, I knew Dunkin’ would have hot, fresh bagels ready to go alongside their signature coffee lineup.
Their classic bagels are surprisingly consistent—soft inside, with just the right chew and a golden edge. The multigrain bagel, paired with plain or veggie cream cheese, stands out for its hearty flavor and ability to fuel you through the morning rush.
Convenience is where Dunkin’ shines, with the app for speedy pick-up and friendly staff keeping the line moving. For a reliable, familiar bagel and a dependable cup of coffee, this spot rarely misses.
More Things to Try in Cleveland, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the freshest bagels in Cleveland?
For classic, hand-rolled bagels, check out Cleveland Bagel Company, The Bagel Shoppe, or Bialy’s Bagels. Each spot is known for warm bagels made daily, perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
What are the best bagel toppings available at local shops?
Popular choices include house-made cream cheese (regular and flavored), fresh veggies, lox, and egg. Cleveland’s bagel shops are also famous for unique spreads like veggie or herbed cream cheese.
Are there vegetarian or vegan bagel options in Cleveland?
Yes. Jack’s Deli & Restaurant, Fortune Cafe, and Bruegger’s Bagels offer plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices—think classic bagels with dairy-free spreads or piled high with veggies.
Which bagel place is best for a quick grab-and-go breakfast?
Dunkin’, Einstein Bros. Bagels, and Bruegger’s (especially at the airport) excel for speedy service, mobile ordering, and lots of quick sandwich or bagel options.
Are there gluten-free bagels in Cleveland?
Jack’s Deli & Restaurant usually has gluten-free choices. It’s always smart to call ahead, as availability can change from day to day.