Finding the best bagel in Queens can feel like chasing a myth. Everyone has their favorite spot and will defend it like a family heirloom. But Queens is not just abundant in options; it’s a melting pot for bagel perfection, offering chewy, glossy gems that invite comparisons, debates, and second breakfasts. I remember my first true Queens bagel: soft middle, a crust that gently resisted, seeds that clung with pride. That bite set a standard I still chase.
With so many shops claiming supremacy, separating the good from the merely average isn’t easy. That’s why this list exists—to clear the haze and steer you to the real contenders. You’ll find classics resting beside bold newcomers, each with an angle: water, bake time, and that indefinable something. Whether you take yours plain or piled with schmear, this is your map to Queens’ bagel royalty. Keep reading—your new favorite is probably only a subway ride away.
Where to find the best bagels in Queens, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Queens, NY:
- Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company
- Utopia Bagels
- Bagel Oasis
- Baker’s Dozen Bagels
- New York City Bagel Coffee House
- New York City Bagel & Coffee House
- Lots O Bagels
- Juju’s Bagel Cafe
- Slims Bagels and Bialys
- Bagels and Co.
1. Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company
Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company on Broadway in Astoria has a way of making morning routines memorable. The aroma hits you before the door swings open—a signal you’re in for good things. My own haul here always includes a classic sesame bagel, still warm, with whipped scallion cream cheese. The crust gives just the right amount of resistance, and the inside stays pillowy.
What makes this spot special? Generous bagels, crafted with care, that balance chew and crisp. The shop manages a bustling crowd yet never skimps on quality. There are gluten-free and vegetarian picks too, catering to almost every need.
You can’t go wrong with an everything bagel, toasted, with classic cream cheese. It’s a Queens classic done right—hearty, fresh, and fulfilling.
2. Utopia Bagels
Utopia Bagels has a cult following, and the first time I joined the line outside, I understood why. The place runs almost nonstop, and the bagels come out of the oven with a crust that snaps and an interior you could nap on. Their attention to detail shows with every bite.
What puts Utopia ahead is their focus on tradition—kettle-boiled bagels that keep both old-school fans and newcomers happy. Each variety is hand-rolled and baked fresh throughout the day.
Don’t skip the plain bagel with vegetable cream cheese. It’s humble perfection, letting the flavor and texture speak for themselves. For brunch lovers, their classic egg sandwich on a poppy seed bagel shows why Utopia is a neighborhood staple.
3. Bagel Oasis
Bagel Oasis, tucked off Horace Harding Expressway, is the kind of place that sneaks up on you. My introduction came late one night, and the sight of racks filled with bagels—fresh even at midnight—was a sight for tired eyes. It’s a spot that promises round-the-clock comfort, and it delivers.
The draw here is simple: consistency and freshness, any time of day. Their bagels are sturdy without being dense, a nod to classic New York style, and each batch gets personal attention from bakers who care.
The onion bagel with whipped lox spread is a house favorite. It’s packed with enough flavor to carry you straight through lunch. For purists, the salt bagel with a schmear remains a timeless pick.
4. Baker’s Dozen Bagels
Baker’s Dozen Bagels has the lively charm of a neighborhood staple in Kew Gardens. On my first visit, I was greeted with the shuffle of regulars and the hum of fresh coffee brewing—a sign you’re somewhere with deep roots. Their bagels always have that just-baked warmth, both in temperature and hospitality.
Standout here is balance: crispy outsides, soft and chewy centers, and a lineup of flavors that keep things interesting. The staff moves quickly but with care, making sure each order is perfect.
I keep coming back for their pumpernickel bagel with veggie cream cheese. The earthiness of the bagel pairs perfectly with the tangy spread. If you love a classic, try the sesame bagel with plain cream cheese; it’s a simple, satisfying start to any day.
5. New York City Bagel Coffee House
New York City Bagel Coffee House on Broadway is where bagels and neighborhood buzz blend perfectly. It’s a friendly spot where the staff knows your regular, though they’ll tempt you with something new every time. My introduction came with a recommendation for their signature bagel—a suggestion I didn’t regret.
Their edge: bagels always warm, chewy, and fresh, paired with coffee crafted as carefully as the bagels themselves. The atmosphere invites lingering; it’s the kind of place where friends meet for breakfast and end up staying through lunch.
Try the multi-grain bagel with chive cream cheese for a satisfying balance. Their egg bagel with a classic schmear also stands tall—soft, golden, an ideal match for morning routines.
6. New York City Bagel & Coffee House
New York City Bagel & Coffee House on 23rd Ave feels like that rare café where every visit turns into a ritual. My first stop here was on a chilly morning, and the warmth of a fresh bagel made the day better. The open, bustling space is filled with regulars and first-timers blending together for a really welcoming vibe.
What sets this spot apart is their attention to everyone: vegetarian and vegan options share the spotlight with classic favorites. The variety makes choosing almost as fun as eating.
You’ll want to order the whole wheat bagel with tofu spread—soft, full-flavored, and comforting. For something more classic, their sesame bagel with plain cream cheese is always a solid move, showing off what makes this place a go-to in Astoria.
7. Lots O Bagels
Lots O Bagels on Broadway has that classic, bustling bagel shop vibe. My first time there, I was struck by the speed and skill behind the counter. The shelves are lined with golden bagels and regulars fill the space, all drawn to the promise of something fresh.
This spot shines for its old-school approach, sticking to the basics and doing them exceptionally well. The bagels are always chewy, with a glossy crust that speaks to traditional kettle-boiling. No fuss—just pure, unadulterated bagel goodness.
If you’re new, grab the everything bagel with scallion cream cheese. It’s tangy, packed with flavor, and just the right kind of messy. For those who like it sweet, their cinnamon raisin bagel stands up proudly, too.
8. Juju’s Bagel Cafe
Juju’s Bagel Cafe in Jackson Heights is that rare find where comfort meets creativity. I first wandered in on a rainy morning and was immediately met with a cozy, neighborly feel. The staff greets everyone with genuine warmth, and the bagel selection shows real care for both tradition and surprise.
This spot stands out for its fresh-baked bagels, innovative spreads, and a menu that feels both classic and inventive. There’s an energy here that matches the diverse crowd, all brought together by bagels worth the trip.
The top pick: asiago cheese bagel with scallion cream cheese. The sharp cheese, creamy spread, and perfect crust combine for serious comfort. For the adventurous, their multi-grain bagel with veggie spread delivers both substance and flavor.
9. Slims Bagels and Bialys
Slims Bagels and Bialys has an old-school, no-frills atmosphere that gives the place its soul. On my first visit, the counter was lined with fresh bagels and bialys—no rush, no pretense, just that calm confidence of a shop that lets its goods speak for themselves. The aroma alone is a sign you’re in the right place.
Slims stands out with its classic approach to bagel and bialy-making, focusing on well-executed basics without frills. The staff know their regulars and greet new faces with a nod and a smile.
Order the onion bagel or a fresh-baked bialy with a simple schmear. Both are chewy, full of flavor, and prove sometimes less really is more.
10. Bagels and Co.
Bagels and Co. in Fresh Meadows greets you with the scent of just-baked dough and the bustle of a family-run spot. I found out about this place while searching for something a bit outside the usual fare, and it impressed right away with its Polish and European twists on the bagel-shop blueprint.
The reason to come here is clear: a unique range of bagels and spreads, some with European flair you won’t find elsewhere in Queens. Service is efficient and welcoming, and there’s always something new to try behind the counter.
Order the poppy seed bagel with sun-dried tomato cream cheese for something memorable. If you’re curious, their traditional rye bagel—hearty, dense, and flavorful—matches the shop’s down-to-earth, inventive character.
More Things to Try in Queens, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a Queens bagel different from other bagels?
Queens bagels tend to have a classic kettle-boiled crust, a chewy interior, and generous sizing. Many neighborhood shops use long-standing recipes, giving each spot its own local spin.
Are there vegetarian and vegan bagel options in Queens?
Yes, most popular bagel shops offer a range of vegetarian cream cheeses and several now carry vegan spreads or tofu-based options. Some also make dairy-free bagels, so there’s usually something for everyone.
When is the best time to buy bagels in Queens?
For the freshest bagels, visit in the morning when bakeries pull hot batches out of the oven. Many places bake throughout the day, so even late risers can score a warm bagel.
Which bagel shops are best for taking out or catering?
Almost every spot on this list offers takeout and party platters. If you’re feeding a group, Utopia Bagels, Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company, and Bagel Oasis are well-known for large, fresh orders that travel well.
Do Queens bagel shops offer gluten-free bagels?
A growing number do, including Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company and other major shops. It’s a good move to call ahead, as selections can sell out quickly.