For those seeking the perfect bagel experience in Knoxville, TN, this guide is designed to uncover the best options the city has to offer. Over the years, I’ve sampled a wide array of bagels, from classic New York-style to innovative local twists. Each bite revealed something unique—be it a perfectly chewy crust, flavorful spreads, or cozy atmospheres that make each visit special. My goal is to help you discover bagel spots that truly stand out, whether you’re craving a simple plain bagel or something more indulgent.
Knoxville’s vibrant food scene includes a surprising number of hidden gems when it comes to bagels. This list is curated based on quality, consistency, and local favorites. Rest assured, every place featured here has something distinct to offer—whether it’s fresh-baked dough, creative toppings, or warm service. Get ready to explore promising options, so your next bagel in Knoxville will be nothing short of satisfying.
Where to find the best bagels in Knoxville, TN
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Knoxville, TN:
- Panera Bread
- Scrambled Jake’s
- Best Bagels and Deli
- Best Bagels In Town and Deli
- Bruegger’s
- Hot Bagel Company
- Einstein Bros Bagels
- Goldman Bagels
- K Brew
- Dunkin’
1. Panera Bread
At 205 North Peters Road, Panera Bread offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for a quick breakfast or a relaxed lunch. During my visits, the inviting aroma of freshly baked goods always catches my attention, promising quality and care in every bite. It’s a place where comfort meets convenience, whether you’re stopping by for a coffee or picking up a meal to go.
What sets Panera apart is its commitment to quality ingredients and a menu designed to feed both body and soul. Their bagels — soft, flavorful, and crafted with care — are ideal for starting your day or enjoying a snack. I recommend trying their classic Bagel with cream cheese; it’s simple yet satisfying and perfectly reflects Panera’s dedication to freshness and flavor. It’s a dependable choice in Knoxville’s bustling food scene.
2. Scrambled Jake’s
Located at 7428 S Northshore Drive, Scrambled Jake’s is known for its vibrant breakfast and brunch offerings. From my visits, I’ve always appreciated the welcoming atmosphere and the variety of fresh, thoughtfully prepared dishes. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking a hearty start to the day or a relaxed midday meal with friends.
What makes Scrambled Jake’s stand out is its dedication to accommodating dietary preferences, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Although their focus is on breakfast and brunch, their homemade bagels are a local delight—fresh, chewy, and full of flavor. I suggest trying their bagel with cream cheese or toppings, which showcase their commitment to quality and customization. It’s a must-visit for a satisfying, inclusive meal in Knoxville.
3. Best Bagels and Deli
Located at 120 S Peters Rd, Best Bagels and Deli offers a classic American deli experience with a focus on quality bagels. During my visits, I’ve enjoyed their warm, freshly baked bagels that perfectly balance chewy texture and delightful flavor. The lively, friendly atmosphere makes it a great stop for breakfast or lunch.
What sets Best Bagels and Deli apart is its dedication to freshness and flavor. Their bagels are ideal for a quick, satisfying meal, whether plain or topped with a variety of spreads and ingredients. I recommend their classic bagel with cream cheese or their hearty breakfast bagel sandwich—both reflect the restaurant’s commitment to quality. It’s a go-to spot for a reliable, delicious bagel in Knoxville.
4. Best Bagels In Town and Deli
Situated in the Plaza at the Commons, Best Bagels In Town and Deli is a favorite spot for bagel lovers in Knoxville. From personal experience, their freshly baked bagels offer a perfect combination of chewy texture and rich flavor that keeps me coming back. The relaxed setting makes it an ideal place for a quick breakfast or a satisfying lunch.
What truly makes this spot stand out is its dedication to quality and variety. Whether you prefer a simple bagel with cream cheese or a hearty breakfast bagel sandwich, they deliver with consistency. I especially recommend their classic everything bagel or a toasted sesame bagel with your favorite spread. It reflects their commitment to serving authentic, flavorful bagels that satisfy every craving.
5. Bruegger’s
(865) 257-4618Call
Located at 4618 Kingston Pike, Bruegger’s is known for its freshly baked bagels and warm, welcoming atmosphere. From my visits, I’ve appreciated their consistent quality and the variety of options available. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or a quick lunch break, especially for bagel enthusiasts.
What makes Bruegger’s stand out is their emphasis on freshness and classic flavors. Their bagels are soft inside with a perfect crust — ideal for creating your favorite sandwich or enjoying plain with butter. I highly recommend trying their everything bagel or a sesame bagel with cream cheese. These simple combos showcase their dedication to serving authentic, high-quality bagels that satisfy every hunger.
6. Hot Bagel Company
(865) 521-1227Call
Located at 800 Market St, Hot Bagel Company is renowned for its fresh-baked bagels made daily. From my visits, I’ve always enjoyed their warm, chewy bagels that offer a genuine New York-style flavor. The cozy atmosphere makes it a great spot for a quick breakfast or a relaxed snack.
What makes Hot Bagel Company stand out is their commitment to quality and freshness. Their bagels are perfect for building a personalized breakfast or lunch. I recommend trying their plain bagel with cream cheese or the everything bagel, both of which highlight their dedication to baking excellence and flavor. It’s a reliable choice for authentic, satisfying bagels in Knoxville.
7. Einstein Bros Bagels
Located at 1049 N Cedar Bluff Rd, Einstein Bros Bagels is a neighborhood favorite known for its inventive and freshly baked bagels. During my visits, I’ve enjoyed their warm bagels, which are made with the finest ingredients and crafted into creative flavors. The welcoming environment makes it an ideal spot for breakfast or a casual lunch.
What sets Einstein Bros apart is their innovative approach to classic bagels. Their menu features clever creations, from stuffed and topped bagels to unique spreads. I recommend trying their everything bagel with a schmear or the smoked salmon bagel. These options reflect their commitment to high quality and bold flavors, making each bite truly satisfying in Knoxville’s diverse breakfast scene.
8. Goldman Bagels
(865) 544-8289Call
Nestled at 4951 Kingston Pike, Goldman Bagels is renowned for its authentic, hand-rolled bagels that consistently impress. From my personal experience, their bagels have a perfect chewy texture and a rich flavor that makes them stand out. It’s a cozy spot that feels dedicated to quality and tradition.
What makes Goldman Bagels unique is its commitment to crafting every bagel fresh on-site, delivering a true artisanal experience. Their range of flavors is extensive, but I highly recommend the plain bagel with cream cheese or their everything bagel for a flavorful, satisfying bite. These choices perfectly reflect their emphasis on freshness and craftsmanship, making it a top destination for bagel lovers in Knoxville.
9. K Brew
(865) 540-6116Call
Located at 5544 Washington Pike, K Brew is a cozy spot recognized for its simple yet high-quality bagels. During my visits, I’ve appreciated the straightforward approach and fresh-baked offerings that consistently deliver satisfying bites. It’s a spot perfect for a casual breakfast or snack in Knoxville.
What makes K Brew stand out is their focus on quality ingredients and a no-frills experience. Their bagels are reliably fresh, with a soft interior and a subtle crust. I recommend trying their plain bagel with cream cheese or their everything bagel to enjoy a flavorful, authentic taste. These choices reflect K Brew’s dedication to delivering a delicious, no-nonsense bagel experience.
10. Dunkin’
Situated at 720 Merchant Dr, Dunkin’ is a reliable destination for bagel lovers seeking a quick, satisfying snack. From my personal experience, their bagels are consistently fresh and paired with a variety of delicious spreads. It’s a convenient spot for a morning boost or a mid-day treat in Knoxville.
What makes Dunkin’ stand out is its focus on quality and variety. Their simple, classic bagels are perfect for a quick bite or customized with cream cheese, butter, or specialty toppings. I recommend trying their plain bagel with cream cheese or the everything bagel. These staples showcase Dunkin’s commitment to delivering freshly baked goods that satisfy everyday cravings.
More Things to Try in Knoxville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best places to get bagels in Knoxville, TN?
A: Some top options include Panera Bread, Best Bagels and Deli, and Einstein Bros Bagels. These spots are known for their fresh, flavorful bagels and welcoming atmospheres.
Q: Are there any gluten-free bagel options in Knoxville?
A: Yes, some bakeries and cafes like Scrambled Jake’s offer gluten-free options, catering to dietary preferences.
Q: Can I get bagels for takeout or delivery in Knoxville?
A: Most bagel shops such as Bruegger’s and Dunkin’ provide takeout and delivery options, making it easy to enjoy bagels at home or on the go.
Q: Do any of these places serve vegan or vegetarian bagels?
A: Yes, establishments like Scrambled Jake’s focus on vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, ensuring everyone can enjoy a tasty bagel.
Q: What should I order if I want a classic bagel?
A: A simple plain bagel with cream cheese is a timeless choice. For something more flavorful, try an everything bagel or a sesame bagel with your favorite spread.