Best Bagels in Evanston, IL

I’ve spent a lot of time in Evanston. Trust me, this city has amazing bagels. I’ve tasted many, and I can help you find the best ones. Each bagel has its own charm. It’s all about the flavors and how they feel in your mouth.

So, where are the best bagels in Evanston, IL? You’ll want to try places like Lefty’s Righteous Bagels, Bagel Art Cafe, and Berry Pike Cafe. Don’t forget Einstein Bros. Bagels and New York Bagel & Bialy Corporation! There’s also Backlot Coffee, Brothers K Coffeehouse, Hewn, Cupitol Coffee & Eatery, and Kaufman’s Bagel & Delicatessen. Trust me, each spot has something special.

I can’t wait to share what makes these bagels so delicious. You’ll find amazing flavors, cozy vibes, and local favorites. Let’s dive in and uncover the bagel treasures of Evanston!

Top 10 Bagels in Evanston, IL

1. Lefty’s Righteous Bagels
2. Bagel Art Cafe
3. Berry Pike Cafe
4. Einstein Bros. Bagels
5. New York Bagel & Bialy Corporation
6. Backlot Coffee
7. Brothers K Coffeehouse
8. Hewn
9. Cupitol Coffee & Eatery (Evanston)
10. Kaufman’s Bagel & Delicatessen

1. Lefty’s Righteous Bagels

Lefty’s Righteous Bagels is a hidden gem on Chicago Avenue in Evanston. This place has the freshest, tastiest bagels. The atmosphere is super inviting. Plus, it’s wheelchair accessible, so everyone can enjoy it.

When I walked in, the smell of fresh bagels hit me. I picked the “Everything” bagel with cream cheese. It was warm, soft, and full of flavor. Every bite was amazing!

Lefty’s stands out because of its quality. They bake their bagels daily. You can taste the freshness. I suggest trying their lox bagel sandwich. It’s a classic, done perfectly. The flavors are just right. Lefty’s really knows how to make a great bagel.

2. Bagel Art Cafe

Bagel Art Cafe is a cozy spot on Dempster Street in Evanston. It’s perfect for a quick bite. You can sit inside or outside. The prices are low, and the vibe is super relaxed.

When I first visited, I tried their plain bagel with cream cheese. It was soft and full of flavor. The relaxed feel of the cafe made my visit enjoyable.

What makes Bagel Art Cafe stand out is its artisan touch. They make everything in-house. The bagels and cream cheese are fresh and tasty. I recommend trying their bagel with smoked salmon. The flavors blend perfectly. It shows the cafe’s commitment to quality. Bagel Art Cafe is a must-visit for any bagel lover.

3. Berry Pike Cafe

Berry Pike Cafe on Davis Street is cozy and sweet. It’s a family-run gem with great bagels, tasty steamed sandwiches, and those amazing Liège waffles. Prices won’t empty your wallet either!

I remember my first visit. I grabbed a bagel with their homemade cream cheese. So fresh, so creamy. The cafe felt like a warm hug.

The vibe is really homey. You feel like family the moment you step in. I’d say, try the Liège waffle. It’s fluffy, sweet, and absolutely delightful. Berry Pike Cafe is the spot for yummy food and good vibes!

4. Einstein Bros. Bagels

Einstein Bros. Bagels on Sherman Ave is a charming spot. The prices are super friendly. The staff is always so warm. Oh, and it’s wheelchair-accessible.

I remember my first time there. I ordered their classic bagel with schmear. Honestly, it was so soft and chewy. The spreads were creamy and bursting with flavor. I felt like I was in bagel heaven.

What sets Einstein Bros. apart? Their unique flavors and consistency. Every bite reminds me why it’s a favorite.

If you visit, try the turkey and cheddar bagel sandwich. It’s hearty, flavorful, and just perfect for a cozy meal.

5. New York Bagel & Bialy Corporation

New York Bagel & Bialy Corporation is at 3556 1/2 Dempster St, Skokie, IL. They have great bagels. You can choose from many flavors. They also have cream cheese spreads, bialys, sandwiches, and pastries. Prices are low. They have takeout service. The entrance is wheelchair-accessible.

I visited one morning. The place was cozy and inviting. I could smell fresh bagels. I picked an everything bagel with lox spread. It was chewy and crispy. The lox spread was creamy and tasty. A perfect combo!

Their bagels stand out. They have the best texture. They are crispy outside, chewy inside. So many flavors and spreads too.

Try the everything bagel with lox spread. It shows their skills. The crunch and rich spread are amazing. You won’t regret it!

6. Backlot Coffee

Backlot Coffee is located at 2006 Central St in Evanston. It’s a cozy place with a great vibe. I love that they have both indoor and outdoor seating. The art on the walls makes it feel special. Prices are low, and the entrance is wheelchair-accessible.

One sunny day, I visited with a friend. We chose to sit outside. The air was fresh, and the coffee smells were inviting. I ordered a warm everything bagel and a smooth espresso. It was such a nice treat!

What I really love about Backlot is the relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for chatting or just chilling.

If you stop by, you have to try their everything bagel with a rich espresso. The flavors together are amazing. Trust me, you’ll enjoy every bite!

7. Brothers K Coffeehouse

Brothers K Coffeehouse is at 500 Main St in Evanston. It’s a fun place. They serve Metropolis coffee from Chicago. You can sit inside or outside. It’s cozy. Prices are low. The entrance is wheelchair-accessible.

I visited on a busy Saturday. People were chatting and laughing. I ordered an espresso and a warm bagel. The espresso was rich. The bagel was soft. It was a great start to my day.

What makes Brothers K special? It’s their great coffee. The Italian-style espresso is amazing. If you go, try the plain bagel with cream cheese. It’s simple and tasty. You’ll love it!

8. Hewn

Hewn is on Central Street in Evanston. It’s a cozy bakery with a rustic feel. They bake everything from scratch. The bread and pastries are just so fresh.

I went on a chilly morning. The smell of baking bread was amazing. I got a ham and cheese croissant. It was warm, flaky, and buttery. The place made me feel at home.

Hewn stands out for quality. They use local and organic stuff. Their sourdough bread is a must. It’s crusty, soft, and full of flavor. Try their almond croissant too. It’s sweet and nutty. Goes great with coffee.

So, Hewn is a real find. Perfect for a quick snack or a slow breakfast. Everything is handmade and delicious.

9. Cupitol Coffee & Eatery (Evanston)

Cupitol Coffee & Eatery is on Grove Street in Evanston. It’s such a cozy spot! The space is modern and stylish. I love sitting outside on the sidewalk when the weather is nice. They have great options for food and espresso drinks.

When I visited, I was excited to try their food. I went for the Avocado Toast. It was fresh and tasty! The bread was perfectly toasted. I paired it with a rich latte. It was the best combo!

What really makes Cupitol stand out? Their welcoming vibe and quality ingredients. Plus, they offer curbside pickup and delivery, which is super convenient. If you’re in the area, definitely check it out! You’ll love it!

10. Kaufman’s Bagel & Delicatessen

Oh man, you have to check out Kaufman’s Bagel & Delicatessen! It’s at 4905 Dempster St, Skokie. This place is a gem for bagel lovers. Prices are moderate, so your wallet won’t cry.

Last Saturday, I walked in and it was buzzing. People everywhere, munching on their food. I ordered a pastrami bagel. Oh my goodness, it was stacked high and tasted amazing. The bagel was fresh, just the right amount of chew.

What makes Kaufman’s special? The quality and variety are top-notch. If you’re there, you must try the bagel with lox and cream cheese. The flavors blend perfectly. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Map of Bagels in Evanston, IL

Choosing the Right Shop for You

With 10 excellent places, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best bagel places in Evanston?
I’ve tried Lefty’s Righteous Bagels, Bagel Art Cafe, and New York Bagel & Bialy Corporation. Trust me, they have amazing flavors and super fresh ingredients.

2. Are there gluten-free bagel options in Evanston?
Yep! Many places here have gluten-free bagels. Just ask the staff for their options.

3. Do these bagel shops offer delivery or takeout?
Most bagel shops in Evanston do. You can get takeout or delivery. Check their websites for menus and options.

4. What is a bialy, and how is it different from a bagel?
A bialy is like a bagel but not boiled. It’s chewy with a soft crust. The middle is filled with onions or other toppings.

5. Is there outdoor seating at bagel cafes in Evanston?
Yes, there is! Lots of bagel cafes have outdoor seating. It’s perfect for nice weather.

6. Can I order bagels for catering events in Evanston?
For sure! Many bagel places cater events. You can order assorted bagels, spreads, and more.

7. What are some popular bagel toppings?
I love cream cheese, lox, and avocado. Some shops have flavored cream cheeses, veggies, and meats.

8. Are the bagels in Evanston made fresh daily?
Yes, they are! Many places bake their bagels fresh every day. They’re always delicious, soft, and flavorful.