Hunting for the best bagels in Orange County, CA can feel like a wild goose chase through strip malls and beach towns. I remember the first time I bit into a local sesame bagel—golden on the outside, impossibly soft inside—while watching the morning surfers paddle out. Crumbs trailed down my sweatshirt as I realized something simple: Orange County’s bagels have character, and they’re worth seeking out.
Bagel lovers here aren’t given to overstatement; they know what a real bagel should taste like. That’s why this guide isn’t just a list—a few of these spots are local legends, others are hidden gems, and each one stands out for a reason. Whether you crave a classic New York style, chewy and slightly sweet, or something modern with a West Coast twist, there’s a bagel in OC waiting to be your new favorite. Dive in and discover which places deserve that coveted morning spot on your calendar.
Where to find the best bagels in Orange County, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Orange County, CA:
- Orange Inn
- The Coffee Importers
- Rose Bakery Cafe
- I Love Bagels
- Antoine’s Cafe
- Bagels & Brew
- The Bagel Shack
- La Brea Bakery Express
- Koffee Klatch
- 602 Coffee House
1. Orange Inn
Orange Inn in Laguna Beach is more than a spot for pre-surf coffee. Steeped in history, this cheerful roadside café blends laid-back California style with real breakfast skill. When I last stopped by, a fresh toasted bagel with house-made jam stole the spotlight—simple, honest, and bursting with bright flavors from their own oranges.
Bagel options here capture the relaxed spirit of Laguna. Try an everything bagel loaded with fresh avocado and roasted tomato. It’s a local favorite that manages to taste both classic and distinctly beachy at the same time. Pair it with their legendary date shake for the full Orange Inn experience.
Vegetarians and vegans aren’t left out. You’ll find creative toppings and fresh produce, perfect for a coastal breakfast with a twist. Orange Inn’s friendly vibe and vibrant bagels make it a true standout on the OC bagel map.
2. The Coffee Importers
The Coffee Importers in Dana Point is a classic harborside spot with an easygoing vibe. Few places let you enjoy a warm bagel within earshot of sailboat rigging and seagull calls. My favorite morning here starts with a generous bagel spread—usually sesame, piled high with their tangy cream cheese and garden-fresh tomato slices. Watching the harbor wake up is part of the ritual.
Their bagel menu is refreshingly straightforward but never dull. Try the bagel sandwich layered with avocado, sprouts, and perfectly ripe tomato for a taste that’s both satisfying and light. This isn’t fast food; it’s the kind of breakfast you linger over before a stroll by the docks.
The Coffee Importers feels like the heart of Dana Point. Whether you’re seeking gluten-free or vegan choices, you’ll find something worth coming back for. The setting makes every bagel bite memorable.
3. Rose Bakery Cafe
Rose Bakery Cafe in Corona del Mar has that early-morning buzz you want from a neighborhood spot. The fresh-baked fragrance drifts out to the sidewalk, hinting at the good things inside. I dropped in for a quick breakfast once and stayed longer than planned, thanks to their bagel-and-smoked-salmon platter—perfectly balanced, simple, and fresh.
The bagels here have a soft crumb with a lovely golden crust. Pair one with whipped cream cheese and thinly sliced cucumbers for a classic take, or go for their veggie bagel with extra sprouts if you want something bright and filling. Everything tastes like it was made that morning, probably because it was.
This café keeps regulars coming back. It’s a cheerful place to start your day, whether you want breakfast to go or a laid-back brunch with a view.
4. I Love Bagels
I Love Bagels in Laguna Niguel lives up to its name without fuss or frills. There’s a genuine charm to the counter, where regulars chat and the scent of dough drifts from the oven. My last visit landed me a toasted onion bagel, sliced thick and generously coated with their house-made veggie cream cheese—comfortable, classic, and utterly satisfying.
This spot gets bagels right: chewy interiors, crisp edges, and bold flavors. Try the everything bagel piled with avocado, tomato, and crunchy lettuce, or grab a classic plain with a schmear for the ultimate comfort fix. It’s straightforward, and that’s a big part of the appeal.
The menu also covers plenty of vegan and vegetarian friendly options. If you want your morning routine to feel effortless but delicious, this is the place worth finding.
5. Antoine’s Cafe
Antoine’s Cafe in San Clemente feels like a coastal living room. The staff remembers your order, and the sunlight spills across the tables just right. One quiet morning, I tried their toasted bagel with cream cheese and a heap of fresh, local tomatoes—every bite was bright, simple, and perfectly balanced.
The bagels come out with a pleasant crunch and just the right chew. For a local favorite, ask for the veggie bagel loaded with avocado and sprouts. It’s filling but still feels light, especially when you pair it with a strong coffee.
Antoine’s brings a casual, cheerful energy to the morning crowd. If you want a breakfast that feels both nourishing and easygoing, this is your place.
6. Bagels & Brew
Bagels & Brew offers the sort of bagel spread that makes breakfast a proper occasion. The menu dazzles with creative choices, and there’s a neighborhood buzz to every visit. On my last stop, the Mediterranean Sunrise bagel—lavished with hummus, cucumber, and ripe tomato—woke me up better than coffee.
Their bagels are dense but not heavy, the kind that hold up under layers of fresh toppings. For something heartier, try the California Avocado bagel stacked with crisp greens and savory spreads. There’s no rush here; this is a place for leisurely bites and good conversation.
Vegetarians and vegans have plenty of options, and the quality shines through in every bite. Bagels & Brew brings playful flavor to a classic morning staple.
7. The Bagel Shack
The Bagel Shack in San Clemente puts its own stamp on the classic bagel shop. Walk in, and you’re greeted by the smell of fresh baking and the sight of surfers with sand still on their feet. My go-to is the “Surfin’ Vegan” bagel—packed with avocado, tomato, and spinach, it’s hearty enough to fuel a morning by the waves.
Their bagels lean rustic, with a chewy bite and real heft. Flavors range from jalapeño to sun-dried tomato, and you can always find an inventive vegan option. Try the Everything bagel topped with house-made spreads for a taste that’s both west coast and timeless.
The atmosphere is relaxed, and there’s no rush. This is the spot for a slow breakfast, good people-watching, and bagels that actually satisfy.
8. La Brea Bakery Express
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La Brea Bakery Express in Anaheim offers classic comfort just steps from the energy of Disneyland. Bread is their claim to fame, so it’s no surprise that the bagels are always fresh, with a crispy shell and soft crumb. On my last visit, a toasted plain bagel with rich cream cheese hit the spot before a day exploring the parks.
Try their bagel sandwiches with garden-fresh vegetables and house-made spreads. The veggie bagel, layered with lettuce, tomato, and cucumber, stands out for its simple balance and freshness. It’s a quick but high-quality breakfast, perfect for fueling up before long adventures.
La Brea Bakery Express stays true to its roots—great bread, efficient service, and a relaxing patio for those early-morning starts. It’s the easy choice for a solid bagel near Disneyland.
9. Koffee Klatch
Koffee Klatch in Laguna Beach is a cozy hangout that feels like your favorite neighborhood nook. The faded art on the walls and ocean breeze drifting in create a vibe you can’t fake. I once stopped in for a bagel and stayed for the easy conversation and the view of passing beachgoers.
Their bagels come out toasted just right, with that golden, satisfying crunch. Go for the classic combo: a plain bagel with cream cheese and a hot cup of coffee. For something more substantial, order a bagel sandwich stacked with egg and fresh veggies—simple but done well, which sums up the overall appeal here.
Koffee Klatch isn’t fancy, but it’s genuine. If you want a good bagel and real Laguna flavor, this spot delivers every time.
10. 602 Coffee House
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602 Coffee House in Huntington Beach is that rare find—casual, friendly, and right across from the waves. There’s a real sense of local pride here, with surfboards leaning against the wall and mismatched chairs settled in the sun. I stopped for coffee but left raving about the bagels.
Bagels at 602 are fresh, slightly chewy, and just the right kind of toasty. My pick is the everything bagel with a thick layer of cream cheese and crisp, juicy tomato. It’s as unfussy as it gets, but every bite feels just right—especially if you eat it on their patio with salt air swirling around.
If you want a low-key start by the beach, this spot covers it—good coffee, better bagels, and a laid-back vibe you’ll want to linger in.
More Things to Try in Orange County, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best bagel shops in Orange County, CA?
Some top picks include Bagels & Brew, Rose Bakery Cafe, The Bagel Shack, Orange Inn, and I Love Bagels. Each offers something different, from classic flavors to creative toppings.
Which bagel spots have vegan or vegetarian options?
Most local favorites—like Bagels & Brew, The Bagel Shack, and Rose Bakery Cafe—feature vegan and vegetarian bagels, as well as plant-based spreads and toppings.
Can I find authentic New York-style bagels here?
Yes, a handful of shops serve classic New York-style bagels. Look for bagel shops that make them fresh, with a chewy interior and crisp crust. I Love Bagels and Shirley’s Bagels are strong bets for that traditional texture.
Are there any gluten-free bagel options in Orange County?
Gluten-free bagels are popping up more often. Rose Bakery Cafe and Bagels & Brew, among others, offer gluten-free choices and friendly service for dietary needs.
Which bagel shop is closest to Disneyland?
La Brea Bakery Express is just steps away from Disneyland and offers quick, fresh bagels without the theme park rush.
Do most places offer takeout or delivery?
Most bagel shops across Orange County have easy takeout, and many now offer online ordering and delivery, making it simple to grab a great bagel wherever you are.