Some cities are known for jazz, others for beignets, but New Orleans has a quiet cult following for bagels. I know what you’re thinking—bagels in Louisiana? Years ago, I doubted too, until a morning stroll in the Marigny steered me into a hidden corner cafe. One bite into a crisp, chewy round, and everything I thought I knew about Southern breakfasts changed. Bagel-hunting here is less about chasing a trend and more about discovering local legends.
New Orleans bagel shops hold their own, many working the dough with a blend of tradition and local flair. The city’s compact size makes it easy to hop from spot to spot, comparing textures and flavors as you go. If you want to skip the search and get straight to the good stuff, you’re in luck. The following list is a hand-picked roundup of the top bagel purveyors in the Crescent City, each offering a surprisingly delightful take on this iconic food. Prepare to rethink what you know about breakfast in New Orleans.
Where to find the best bagels in New Orleans, LA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in New Orleans, LA:
- Surrey’s Juice Bar
- Cafe Envie
- Vacherie
- Avenue Cafe
- Bittersweet Confections
- Satsuma Cafe
- Cafe Conti
- Envie Espresso Bar & Cafe
- Stein’s Market and Deli
- Mojo Coffee House
1. Surrey’s Juice Bar
Surrey’s Juice Bar fits right into the city’s relaxed vibe, serving up bagels that surprise with every bite. Tucked away on Magazine Street, the bright murals and cozy corners feel like a friend’s kitchen rather than a busy brunch destination. I once went in for a juice and left daydreaming about their bagel sandwiches for a week.
What sets Surrey’s apart is the care in their ingredients. Vegetarian and vegan options hold their own, with spreads made fresh and bagels with that perfect “just-baked” texture. Order the veggie bagel sandwich—avocado, sprouts, tomato, and hummus come together in a way that feels both hearty and refreshing.
Surrey’s bagels capture New Orleans spirit: bold, fuss-free, always inviting another bite.
2. Cafe Envie
Cafe Envie makes mornings in the French Quarter worth getting up for. Tucked on Decatur Street, it’s the kind of place I’ve lingered with friends, watching the Quarter wake up, a hot coffee in one hand and a warm bagel in the other. The atmosphere is relaxed, never rushed, with familiar faces behind the counter and regulars greeting each other by name.
The bagels here are fresh and satisfyingly chewy. Try the classic bagel with cream cheese or the veggie-loaded breakfast bagel, both proving Envie isn’t just about caffeine. Their espresso shots pair with savory or sweet options with easy precision.
If you want to experience a true local’s choice for breakfast, Cafe Envie delivers genuine comfort with minimal fuss.
3. Vacherie
Vacherie sits quietly just off Bourbon, a retreat from the French Quarter’s clamor. The first time I wandered in was by accident, but the charm kept me seated through breakfast and coffee. This spot strikes a careful balance: Southern warmth and big-city deli comfort.
Their bagels arrive perfectly toasted, paired with fresh spreads and thoughtful toppings. Vegetarian options are always on point—the avocado bagel ranks high, with creamy avocado and crisp vegetables layered on a warm, chewy base.
There’s a relaxed pace to mornings here that sets the mood for the whole day. If you want your bagel with a side of quiet and a whiff of the Quarter’s old-world elegance, Vacherie delivers every time.
4. Avenue Cafe
Avenue Cafe is the kind of place that blends New Orleans hospitality with a hint of New York’s edge. I’ve often found myself lingering on their front patio, coffee in hand, as the streetcar rolls by. This cafe is one of the rare spots in town to serve genuine H&H bagels from New York, a detail that tells you everything about their standards.
The bagels are reliably fresh, chewy, and generously sized. Try them with their flavored cream cheeses or as the base for a hearty breakfast sandwich. Every option lets you taste the perfect balance between a classic New York treat and local flavor.
For a true bagel lover looking for substance and charm, Avenue Cafe is tough to beat.
5. Bittersweet Confections
Bittersweet Confections feels like a local secret—tucked away on Magazine, yet unforgettable once you step inside. My first visit was for chocolate, but the memory that lingers is a warm, toasted bagel paired with their house-made cream cheese. This spot takes pride in everything, from their pastries to their sandwiches, and you can taste it in every bite.
Bagel options are simple but strong. Go for a classic bagel breakfast here, maybe topped with fresh veggies or tucked into a sandwich. The bagels have just the right amount of chew, offering a perfect base for all their fresh fillings.
There’s a calm energy here, making it easy to settle in with your coffee and enjoy a slow, satisfying start to your day.
6. Satsuma Cafe
Satsuma Cafe is Bywater’s answer to fresh, bright, and wholesome morning fare. My favorite mornings here start with sunlight streaming through big windows and a plate holding their signature bagel sandwich. This place is famous for its creative takes on classic breakfast, leaning hard on crisp veggies and top-notch bread.
The bagels are a crowd favorite for good reason. Try the veggie bagel—stuffed with avocado, sprouts, and tomato. Every bite feels thoughtful and light, a nice break from the usual. Their fresh-pressed juices balance it all out, so you leave feeling good, not heavy.
Satsuma nails that local, lively energy and turns a simple bagel into something you’ll keep coming back for.
7. Cafe Conti
Cafe Conti sits just off Royal, tucked into the Prince Conti Hotel, and has a calm that’s rare this close to Bourbon Street. Whenever I’m nearby, I’ll slip in for a relaxed morning and a comforting bagel. This cafe brings French Quarter charm, but with an easy pace that feels worlds away from the crowds.
Their bagels are the perfect breakfast centerpiece. Order one simply toasted with herby cream cheese, or as part of a breakfast platter for something more filling. Either way, the texture hits that sweet spot between chewy and crisp.
Cafe Conti’s bagel options reflect their attention to quality—never rushed, always satisfying, with that unmistakable local touch.
8. Envie Espresso Bar & Cafe
Envie Espresso Bar & Cafe gives Decatur Street a taste of true local comfort. At this second location, I’ve claimed a window seat more than once, bagel and coffee in hand, watching the city spin to life. The energy here is lively but never rushed, a rare balance in the French Quarter.
Bagels are always fresh, with a good mix of toppings and spreads to choose from. Try the toasted bagel with veggie cream cheese or build your own breakfast sandwich—it’s hard to walk away hungry. Their locally roasted coffee is the ideal partner, whether you’re a regular or passing through.
Envie’s attention to freshness and easygoing style makes breakfast or brunch here an everyday treat.
9. Stein’s Market and Deli
Stein’s Market and Deli is Magazine Street’s go-to for deli classics and the closest thing New Orleans has to a true Northeastern bagel shop. My first visit was filled with a sense of nostalgia—the aroma of warm bread and bustling counter chatter sets the tone. Stein’s is famous for doing the basics better than anyone, right down to their signature bagels.
Order a bagel with scallion cream cheese or stacked high with fresh veggies. Each has that authentic, chewy bite, a little crisp at the edges. The vegetarian selections never disappoint, and the variety of spreads are always bold and fresh.
If you crave an old-school deli bagel without leaving New Orleans, Stein’s delivers every time.
10. Mojo Coffee House
Mojo Coffee House is where Magazine Street’s creative crowd gathers each morning. The atmosphere is friendly, filled with quiet conversation and the clink of coffee cups. I’ve kicked off many writing days here with a perfectly toasted bagel at my side. Mojo’s laid-back style matches its straightforward, satisfying food.
Bagels here are best enjoyed with classic cream cheese or piled with fresh tomatoes and greens. Everything tastes fresh and keeps you fueled, whether you’re deep into a book or chatting with friends. The quality never wavers, and neither does the coffee.
For a relaxed start paired with a solid bagel and a bit of local color, Mojo Coffee House always delivers.
More Things to Try in New Orleans, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find authentic New York–style bagels in New Orleans?
Avenue Cafe serves H&H bagels straight from New York, giving you that classic chewy texture and flavor right on St. Charles Avenue. Stein’s Market and Deli is also a favorite for true deli-style bagels.
Which places offer vegetarian or vegan bagel options?
Surrey’s Juice Bar, Satsuma Cafe, and Bittersweet Confections all offer vegetarian and vegan bagels, complete with fresh veggie toppings and dairy-free spreads.
Are there gluten-free bagel choices in New Orleans?
Laurel Street Bakery and Bittersweet Confections provide gluten-free options for those looking to skip traditional wheat bagels without missing out on taste.
What’s the best spot for a bagel breakfast near the French Quarter?
Cafe Envie and Cafe Conti both serve standout bagel breakfasts within walking distance of the French Quarter, perfect for an early start or midday snack.
Do any cafes make their own bagels in-house?
Yes, Surrey’s Juice Bar and Humble Bagel are known for bagels baked fresh daily, ensuring a unique texture and flavor you won’t find in chain shops.
Is it easy to find dairy-free spreads for bagels in New Orleans?
Most of the top cafes, including Satsuma Cafe and Surrey’s Juice Bar, offer dairy-free and vegan cream cheese options alongside their standard selections.