Seattle’s bagel scene is as varied as the city’s weather. Ask five locals about their top spot, and chances are you’ll get five different, heated answers. I’ve spent enough chilly mornings wandering Seattle’s neighborhoods with a mug in one hand and a warm, chewy circle in the other to know that finding a great bagel here is a pursuit worth savoring.
If you want a bagel with a delicate chew, a crisp crust, and the perfect spread, you’re in the right place. I’ve tasted my way through classic old-school delis and quirky bakeries hidden on busy corners. Some were no-nonsense and traditional, while others toyed gently with Pacific Northwest flair. Each one offers a unique twist on what should, at its core, be simple: flour, water, yeast, and a bit of magic. The search for the best bagel in Seattle starts here, so go ahead—trust the process, trust the bagels.
Where to find the best bagels in Seattle, WA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Seattle, WA:
- Bacco Cafe
- Cherry Street Coffee House
- Three Girls Bakery
- Grateful Bread
- Cherry Street Coffee House
- Pineapple Cafe
- Bang Bang Cafe
- Blazing Bagels
- Bagel Oasis
- Einstein Bros. Bagels
1. Bacco Cafe
Bacco Cafe sits just a stone’s throw from Pike Place Market, and it’s the kind of spot where mornings begin with the city’s buzz and comforting aromas. I remember slipping in on a rainy day, greeted by staff who truly seem to enjoy their work.
What sets Bacco apart is their knack for blending fresh, local ingredients with classic breakfast staples. Their bagel sandwiches, especially the smoked salmon bagel, balance bright flavors and rich texture on a pillowy base. It’s the kind of breakfast that keeps you full as you wander the market.
If you like something lighter, try a bagel with their house-made jam. With vegetarian and vegan choices, every guest finds something to savor. Bacco’s bagels feel unmistakably Seattle: a local take with big flavor.
2. Cherry Street Coffee House
Cherry Street Coffee House wraps you in a sense of calm before you even order. I once ducked in for shelter on a misty morning and found that their cozy space pairs seamlessly with the city’s famous drizzle.
This cafe thrives on heartfelt hospitality and simple breakfast options. Their bagels are toasted just right, with a gentle crunch that gives way to softness inside. What stands out is their veggie bagel, generously layered with avocado and crisp greens—a perfect balance of freshness and comfort.
If you need a pick-me-up, add a piping cup of their signature coffee. Each bite and sip feels both familiar and satisfying, making Cherry Street a rare downtown escape where bagels are lovingly crafted.
3. Three Girls Bakery
Three Girls Bakery brims with history, tucked among the bustle of Pike Place Market since 1912. The first time I wandered in, I was drawn by the aroma of fresh bread and the hum of regulars chatting at the counter. There’s a comforting nostalgia here that blends seamlessly with Seattle’s energy.
The real charm lies in their approach to classics. Their bagels, fresh and chewy, anchor a rich selection of breakfast sandwiches. I recommend the veggie bagel, stacked with cream cheese, ripe tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers. It’s a simple pleasure, but done with sincerity and attention to detail.
Their bagels pair beautifully with any of their soups if you’re lingering at lunch. Wholesome, honest, and always satisfying, Three Girls Bakery keeps it genuine—no shortcuts, just genuinely good food.
4. Grateful Bread
Grateful Bread sits in a peaceful residential pocket, but locals know it as a beacon of heartwarming bakery fare. I stopped in for breakfast once, expecting a typical bagel, and left with a whole new appreciation for this classic staple.
Their bagels are freshly baked and a touch softer than the norm, with a subtle tang and excellent chew. Their veggie bagel, generously layered with fresh greens and house-made cream cheese, easily became my go-to order. It’s the type of meal that feels both nourishing and special.
The real secret? Every bagel has that just-out-of-the-oven warmth that makes even a simple breakfast worth lingering over. Grateful Bread is understated but memorable—perfect for those who like their mornings unhurried and delicious.
5. Cherry Street Coffee House
Cherry Street Coffee House on 1st Ave is a favorite of mine for quiet mornings and heartfelt service. There’s an easy rhythm to this place—warm sunlight, the soft sound of steaming milk, and the scent of fresh bread drifting by. It’s clear they know their regulars.
The bagels here hit just the right note: lightly crisp outside, soft within, and generous on fillings. I gravitate to their egg and cheese bagel, a simple choice that lets the bagel’s own flavor shine through. Everything is prepared with a gentle touch, never rushed or careless.
Pair your bagel with their smooth house blend coffee. It’s the kind of cafe where time doesn’t matter and breakfast feels like a small luxury you can afford any day.
6. Pineapple Cafe
Pineapple Cafe has a playful charm that makes mornings feel lighter. I first wandered in during the gray of January, seeking anything to brighten the day, and the cafe’s cozy energy delivered.
The highlight here is their breakfast bagel sandwich. The bagel is warm, with a pleasantly chewy bite, and the filling—eggs, tangy cheese, and fresh greens—brings bold flavor in every mouthful. There’s nothing fussy about it, just honest, quality ingredients layered with care.
If you like your breakfast on the go, this is your spot. Grab a hand-crafted coffee and bagel, and you’ve got the kind of satisfying start that has become my under-the-radar Seattle secret.
7. Bang Bang Cafe
Bang Bang Cafe has an easygoing energy that’s tough to find elsewhere. The first time I stopped by, I was hungry but in a hurry, and their quick, cheerful service didn’t disappoint.
They offer bagels that feel homemade—dense, flavorful, and perfect for generous toppings. Their veggie bagel, loaded with avocado, sprouts, and their house tofu spread, is a standout for anyone craving both flavor and freshness. There are vegan and gluten-free options, making it easy for everyone to find a favorite.
Pair your bagel with one of their strong coffees and you’ll be set for whatever Seattle’s weather throws your way. Bang Bang is a local secret for good reason—simple breakfasts done with genuine care.
8. Blazing Bagels
Blazing Bagels feels like a rite of passage for Seattle’s true bagel fans. My first visit was a blur of choices, from classic plain to bold, seeded varieties—all stacked behind the counter, warm and inviting.
Blazing Bagels prides itself on authentic, dense bagels with a satisfyingly chewy texture. If you’re uncertain, start with their “everything” bagel. Piled with fresh, crisp veggies and their tangy house cream cheese, it’s a combination that speaks to both tradition and local inventiveness.
Vegetarian and vegan options abound, making it easy for anyone to leave happy. For me, grabbing a hot bagel and strolling through SoDo is one of Seattle’s best—and simplest—morning pleasures.
9. Bagel Oasis
Bagel Oasis is a genuine neighborhood staple, especially if you crave a no-nonsense bagel fix. My introduction to this spot was a friend’s recommendation—one bite in and I understood why.
Their bagels come out fresh with the perfect chew and a crust that crackles. If you want to see what all the fuss is about, try their classic sesame bagel with scallion cream cheese. The flavors are balanced and the portions generous, making for a breakfast that feels complete but never heavy.
There’s a laid-back vibe that encourages you to linger, whether you’re catching up with friends or simply people watching through the big windows. Bagel Oasis makes the type of bagel you remember long after you’ve finished.
10. Einstein Bros. Bagels
Einstein Bros. Bagels brings consistency and comfort to the heart of Seattle’s busy Westlake corridor. Sometimes, when I can’t decide what I’m craving, I land here for a quick bagel fix that never disappoints.
Their menu covers all the classics, but it’s the soft, satisfying bagel paired with fresh veggie shmear that hits the spot every time. If you want something hearty, the egg and cheese bagel sandwich delivers reliable goodness, fuel for a workday or a day exploring downtown.
The pace is quick and the coffee always fresh, making it easy to swing by as part of your morning routine. When you want a familiar, no-fuss breakfast, Einstein Bros. has you covered.
More Things to Try in Seattle, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
What styles of bagels are popular in Seattle?
Seattle favors classic New York-style bagels with a chewy bite, though you’ll find plenty of places putting a local twist—think multigrain, whole wheat, or unique Pacific Northwest flavors like roasted garlic and rosemary.
Where can I find vegan or gluten-free bagels in Seattle?
Several spots, including Blazing Bagels and Bang Bang Cafe, offer a range of vegan and gluten-free choices, so everyone can enjoy a fresh, tasty bagel without compromise.
Are there bagel shops near Pike Place Market?
Yes, places like Three Girls Bakery and Bacco Cafe offer excellent bagels just steps from the market, perfect for a quick breakfast before exploring the historic stalls.
What should I try if I’m new to Seattle bagels?
Start with an “everything” or sesame bagel spread with local cream cheese, veggie toppings, or classic lox. Many shops also feature house-made spreads loaded with fresh Northwest herbs and produce.
Do Seattle bagel shops offer takeout and coffee?
Absolutely. Most bagel cafes in Seattle serve specialty coffee and quick takeout, making it simple to grab breakfast on the move or linger with a hot drink in hand.