Bagels in Elmira are not just breakfast. They’re a comfort food on cold mornings, a midday pick-me-up, and sometimes the thing that makes a work meeting bearable. Believe me, I’ve powered through my share of spreadsheets with nothing but a toasted sesame bagel and good coffee for company. In this city, finding the right bagel—chewy inside, golden crust outside, and a flavor profile that makes you pause mid-bite—takes some trial and error. That’s where this list comes in.
Elmira’s bagel scene might surprise you. Between longtime bakeries and popular chains, there’s a genuine local flavor waiting to be discovered. I’ve spent more than enough time tasting my way through the options, comparing cream cheese blends and noting which places never skimp on freshness. If you’re on the hunt for the best bagels in Elmira, NY, you’re in the right spot. Each pick below offers its own twist—some classic, some creative—so get ready to carve out your favorite.
Where to find the best bagels in Elmira, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Elmira, NY:
1. Kountry Krullers
Kountry Krullers is bright and inviting, the kind of spot where regulars know each other’s names. Tucked on S Walnut St, this hometown bakery has a following for a reason. There’s a simple joy to their freshly baked bagels, always chewy and never dry.
I’ve stopped in more times than I can count, often pairing my bagel with a hot cup of Shorebird Coffee. Their plain and everything bagels are crowd-pleasers, but the asiago cheese is a personal favorite—rich, salty, and perfect on its own or with a swipe of cream cheese.
Kountry Krullers keeps things classic but doesn’t overlook quality. If you love a bagel that tastes homemade, this is one spot in Elmira you don’t want to miss.
2. Panera Bread
Panera Bread brings a familiar comfort to Elmira’s bagel scene. The café is always warm, with a steady hum of early risers and laptop-toting regulars. What sets Panera apart is its dedication to quality and consistency. You always know what you’re getting, and it always hits the spot.
The cinnamon swirl and asiago cheese bagels are highlights, both toasted to crisp edges and soft inside. I often grab a bagel with plain cream cheese for breakfast, or go for the egg and cheese sandwich when I need something more filling.
Panera’s bagels are approachable and satisfying, reflecting their straightforward, inviting style. It’s the reliable stop when you want your bagel fix fast, but still crave a little character with your meal.
3. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ on Madison Ave is the spot when you need a bagel without delay. The buzz of drive-thru orders and the scent of fresh coffee blend into a daily Elmira soundtrack. I’ve grabbed a bagel here between errands and, more often than I’d admit, before an early morning road trip.
What makes Dunkin’ stand out? It’s reliable, fast, and open early. Their plain and multigrain bagels are always soft, making a great base for a simple cream cheese or a veggie spread.
Dunkin’ offers the kind of unfussy bagels you can count on—predictable, filling, and perfect for when time is short but your cravings are big. Grab a coffee, and you’re set.
4. Bagels & Blarney
Bagels & Blarney is a corner bakery with a loyal following, and for good reason. The scent of fresh-baked bagels greets you long before you see their chalkboard menu. I remember getting a veggie bagel sandwich here on a drizzly morning—comforting, warm, and hearty in all the right ways.
Everything is made to order, which means even a simple bagel shines. Their sesame bagel with vegetable cream cheese is a standout, balancing crunch, flavor, and freshness. Early risers love the classic egg and cheese sandwich, always prepared hot and just right.
Bagels & Blarney knows how to combine tradition with welcoming service. This bakery feels less like a chain and more like a neighborhood gem.
More Things to Try in Elmira, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the freshest bagels in Elmira, NY?
Locals swear by Kountry Krullers and Bagels & Blarney for bagels baked fresh each morning. Both spots offer that just-out-of-the-oven feel you want in a real bagel.
Are there any vegetarian bagel options in Elmira?
Absolutely. Panera Bread and Bagels & Blarney both offer a range of vegetarian bagels and cream cheese spreads. Try a veggie sandwich for a light, filling bite.
Which place has the best bagel sandwiches near Elmira?
You can’t go wrong with Bagels & Blarney’s classic egg and cheese sandwich. For grab-and-go, Dunkin’ has several crowd-pleasers too.
Can I order bagels online from any Elmira bakery?
Panera Bread and Dunkin’ both let you order online for quick pickup. Kountry Krullers and Bagels & Blarney are more of a walk-in, enjoy-the-smell kind of experience.
Do any places offer gluten-free bagels in Elmira?
Gluten-free options are limited. Panera sometimes offers a gluten-conscious menu, but a quick call ahead is always smart to confirm availability.