Bagels in Solvang might not be the first thing you think of when rolling past windmills and freshly baked Danish pastries. Yet, tucked between the town’s cobblestone corners, you’ll find some surprisingly good spots dedicated to the art of bagel-making. After more bagel tastings than I’d care to admit (anything for research), a clear pattern emerged—Solvang may be small, but it delivers big on chewy, satisfying, and sometimes quirky bagels.
If you crave soft interiors with the perfect golden crust, or perhaps a bold selection of spreads, Solvang hides its best bagels in plain sight. Over time, I’ve found myself returning for different reasons: a dense everything bagel before a bike ride, a toasty sesame with tangy cream cheese after. Each place on this list offers its own bagel adventure. Dive in—the best bagel in Solvang is likely one you haven’t tried yet.
Where to find the best bagels in Solvang, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Solvang, CA:
1. Lovin Oven
(805) 770-7737Call
Lovin Oven does bagels the way you wish every corner shop would. The spot isn’t just about baking—they put real heart into it. I remember biting into a still-warm sesame bagel that hit the sweet spot between crisp crust and pillowy middle. Their bagels are hand-rolled, boiled, and baked fresh, which gives them a chewy authenticity you rarely find outside bigger cities.
What sets Lovin Oven apart is the Mediterranean twist peeking through the menu. Try the classic plain bagel with their homemade hummus—a pairing more addictive than you’d expect. Their everything bagel, bright with fennel and just the right amount of crunch, punches above its price tag. You’ll walk away happy, with a bag of bagels begging for another visit.
2. Bagel Cafe
Bagel Cafe is a Solvang-area favorite for anyone who believes breakfast should last all day. My first visit started with a classic: a toasted whole wheat bagel, thick with cream cheese, melting as I took that first bite. The generous toppings and creative combinations make every order memorable—no half-measures here.
What truly makes Bagel Cafe stand out is the variety. You’ll find everything from sun-dried tomato to cinnamon raisin, each one delivering its own character. Their veggie-loaded bagel sandwiches are both hearty and fresh, showing off the kitchen’s knack for bold flavors. Pair your bagel with a house-made smoothie for a surprisingly refreshing combo. Bagel Cafe’s menu invites you to get adventurous and always rewards you for it.
3. Spudnuts & Bagels
Spudnuts & Bagels brings a little twist to your usual bagel stop by putting potatoes in their dough. The result? Bagels that are soft, slightly sweet, and a touch denser than most. My favorite memory is sitting outside, sunlight warming a freshly baked plain bagel that felt almost cake-like in its softness.
Diversion from tradition works here. If you like to stray from routine, the spinach bagel topped with a simple schmear stands out. You’ll also find a solid line-up of classics, but it’s the dough that sets Spudnuts apart. Grab a few to go—their bagels manage to stay moist and pleasant even the next day, which is worth noting for any bagel fan on the move.
4. Bagel Market Cafe
Bagel Market Cafe feels like a slice of New York tucked away on the West Coast. I dropped by one morning, sleepy-eyed, and their freshly baked onion bagel woke up my taste buds fast. These bagels come out glossy and golden, with just the right chew—no shortcuts and no skimping on quality.
The menu stretches far beyond basics, but the star is the lox and cream cheese on a toasted sesame bagel. It’s simple, generous, and executed with confidence. Bagel Market Cafe keeps their recipes classic but the flavors bold. If you’re hunting for a bagel that balances tradition with care, this spot won’t let you down.
5. Dunkin’
(805) 563-0058Call
Dunkin’ may be known for its doughnuts, but don’t overlook the bagels. Sometimes you need something fast, familiar, and satisfying—Dunkin’ delivers every time. On a busy morning, I grabbed a plain bagel toasted with a side of classic cream cheese; it was simple, hearty, and hit the spot.
The real perk here is consistency. You know exactly what you’re getting: reliably soft bagels and a grab-and-go experience. If you need a portable breakfast, pair an everything bagel with one of their bold coffees. Dunkin’ proves you don’t always need frills for a bagel to be good—you just need it fresh, warm, and ready to fuel your day.
More Things to Try in Solvang, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best bagels near Solvang, CA?
Try local favorites like Lovin Oven, Bagel Cafe, Spudnuts & Bagels, Bagel Market Cafe, and Dunkin’. Each place offers its own spin, from chewy hand-rolled classics to creative toppings and spreads.
What are some must-try bagel flavors in Solvang?
Everything bagels, sesame, and sun-dried tomato are always popular. Most shops rotate special flavors, so check their menus for seasonal or house favorites.
Can I find vegan or dairy-free bagels in the Solvang area?
Many shops offer plain bagels made without dairy, and some have vegan-friendly spreads. It’s worth asking at the counter for specifics as options vary by shop.
Are there any gluten-free bagel options near Solvang?
Some bakeries are starting to introduce gluten-free bagels, but choices may be limited. Always call ahead to check availability for the day you plan to visit.
What should I order with my bagel?
Cream cheese is the classic, but don’t overlook options like hummus, lox, or veggie-loaded toppings. Each spot has its own signature pairings, so it pays to get a little adventurous.