Best Bagels in Westwood, NJ

Bagel lovers in Westwood, NJ know one truth: not all bagels are built the same. The search for the perfect bagel—that balance of crisp crust, chewy center, and just the right touch of flavor—quickly turns into a mission once you’ve had your first bite of a great one. I’ve wandered plenty of Sunday mornings, coffee in hand, through cozy shops and bustling counters, on the hunt for that signature combination.

With so many options packed into and around Westwood, it helps to have a guide who’s bitten, torn, and tasted through the real contenders. This isn’t a list cobbled together from star ratings or random picks. It’s the result of honest sampling, countless conversations with fellow bagel devotees, and more than a few extra napkins. If you crave the inside scoop on the best bagels in Westwood, NJ, you’re in the right place. Let’s get straight to the doughy heart of the matter.

1. Goldberg Howard

Goldberg Howard has the kind of old-school charm you can sense the moment you enter. Tucked on Westwood Ave, this place has a steady buzz of locals who know their bagels. I remember my first visit: the scent of fresh dough and toasty sesame hit before I even reached the counter.

What makes Goldberg Howard stand out? Their bagels are boiled, not baked straight through, so you get that perfect balance—crisp on the outside, soft inside. The staff know their regulars, and the place always feels welcoming but never rushed.

Stick to the classics here. The everything bagel with scallion cream cheese is a standout. For a heartier bite, try a bagel sandwich with smoked salmon and tomato. It’s simple, but every part is fresh and just right.

2. Goldberg’s Famous Bagels

Goldberg’s Famous Bagels has carved out its own corner of Broadway with confidence. My first stop here was on an icy morning, and the warmth hit from the door—this shop is always humming with bagel fans grabbing their daily fix. The aroma alone promises something special.

These bagels don’t play around. Hand-rolled and kettle-boiled, they have a smooth texture and a golden finish that sets them apart in Westwood. Fresh batches seem to appear almost hourly, and you can taste that effort in every bite.

Try the whole wheat bagel piled with vegetable cream cheese. For a classic shop experience, pick up the poppy seed bagel with egg salad. Both are simple, satisfying, and get to the heart of what makes this bagel spot memorable.

3. Dumont Hot Bagels

Dumont Hot Bagels is worth a short drive from Westwood, especially for those who take bagel temperature seriously. I stopped in on a chilly morning—bagels here are served warm from the oven, still giving off steam. Each bite delivers that fresh-baked texture every bagel fan seeks.

The shop keeps it unpretentious, focused on doing the basics incredibly well. Friendly service makes early mornings feel less of a chore, and there’s usually a crowd that knows exactly what they want.

Go straight for the plain bagel with whipped cream cheese if you want to appreciate the fundamentals. For a savory treat, try the onion bagel with veggie cream cheese. Dumont’s style is straightforward comfort, with no shortcuts on quality.

4. Bagel Emporium Inc

Bagel Emporium Inc, just a quick drive from Westwood, is a spot where tradition and quality hold center stage. The shop feels roomy and efficient, with baskets of fresh bagels catching your eye as soon as you walk in. I remember swinging by early one Saturday, drawn in by the crowd and the inviting scent of baking dough.

What sets this place apart is their commitment to variety and freshness. Bagel Emporium rotates flavors daily, so there’s almost always something new to try. They put just as much effort into their spreads as the bagels themselves.

Don’t miss the salt bagel with chive cream cheese. For anyone craving a little crunch, their sesame bagel with a side of vegetable spread hits the mark. Here, quality and choice meet with every order.

5. Dennis Hot Bagels

Dennis Hot Bagels is a Paramus favorite with a loyal following, and for good reason. Pulling in here on a busy morning, I could tell locals had this place mapped into their routines. The aroma of bagels baking gives the shop an instant, cozy appeal.

The big draw? Dennis delivers bagels with a golden, slightly crisp crust and a soft, doughy interior—the kind that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or a more leisurely bite. Service is quick but friendly, making early crowds move right along.

If you want Dennis at its best, order a classic plain bagel with lox spread. For a sweet kick, the cinnamon raisin bagel with plain cream cheese always hits the spot. They don’t overcomplicate things—just fresh, flavorful bagels every time.

6. Hohokus Famous Bagel

Hohokus Famous Bagel is one of those hidden gems just a short ride from Westwood. The first thing that struck me was how busy it gets, even on a weekday. That’s a clear sign the locals swear by these bagels. The place is unflashy but full of energy, with trays stacked high behind the counter.

The distinction here is in their oversized, pillowy bagels—each one has a light crust and a soft, chewy middle. They don’t skimp on freshness, and the spreads are whipped up daily.

I highly recommend their egg bagel with scallion cream cheese. If you’re hungry, their bagel sandwich with avocado and tomato balances simplicity and flavor. Hohokus keeps things classic, and it works.

7. Kinderkamack Hot Bagels

Kinderkamack Hot Bagels in River Edge is exactly the kind of neighborhood spot you want nearby. The bustle starts early, with the hum of regulars chatting and the staff moving fast behind the counter. I first dropped in by accident and left thinking I’d found a new favorite for a reason—these bagels don’t disappoint.

What makes them standout is the consistently soft, fluffy texture and unmistakable fresh-baked aroma. The variety here is impressive, spanning bagels, spreads, and deli items. Their team knows how to keep the lines moving while making you feel right at home.

Order the everything bagel with veggie cream cheese to taste why locals swear by this spot. If you’re hungry for lunch, go for a bagel sandwich stacked with egg and cheese. Each bite is proof of Kinderkamack’s winning formula: fresh, simple, and always satisfying.

8. Butterworth Bagels Inc

Butterworth Bagels Inc, family-run since 1995, brings that classic neighborhood vibe to Old Tappan. I wandered in one crisp morning, greeted by a glass case brimming with golden bagels and friendly chatter at every table. There’s a sense that everyone here is in on a good secret.

Their secret? It’s no gimmick: everything is made from scratch, daily. The bagels have a satisfying chew and the freshness stands out, even among tough local competition. With a wide menu, it’s easy to return again and again without repeating an order.

For a true Butterworth experience, grab a sesame bagel with plain or veggie cream cheese. If you like to branch out, the pumpernickel bagel with egg and cheese is a clear winner. There’s real pride—and flavor—in every bite.

9. Ronnie’s Bagels

Ronnie’s Bagels in Norwood brings classic, no-frills comfort to the local bagel scene. My first visit was on a Monday morning, yet the energy inside rivaled any weekend rush. People stop in for their favorites, and the staff remembers most faces, which makes every trip feel personal.

The real charm is in their approach—bagels are hot, fresh, and made with consistency. There’s an impressive spread of options, from lighter tastes to hearty breakfast staples, with every bagel boasting that just-right chew.

Start with a whole wheat bagel and garden veggie cream cheese for good balance. If you’re craving something filling, the egg bagel packed with cheese and avocado is a local move. Ronnie’s thrives on loyal customers and timeless bagel recipes.

10. David’s Bagels

David’s Bagels sits in Township Of Washington, but its reputation stretches well beyond. The first time I stopped in, I stood behind a line of regulars debating their favorites. It felt more like a neighborhood hub than just a bagel shop, which is always a good sign.

David’s raises the bar with bagels that are both hearty and flavorful, ideal for breakfast or an anytime snack. The prices are fair, and the staff keeps things friendly even with a steady stream of customers.

Try the jalapeño bagel with plain cream cheese if you want a little kick. For a classic approach, a plain bagel with egg and cheese is always spot on. David’s delivers that consistently satisfying bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Westwood bagels different from others?
Westwood bagels are known for their chewy texture and golden, crisp crust. Most local shops use traditional methods like kettle boiling for an authentic bite.

Are there bagel shops in Westwood with vegan or dairy-free options?
Yes, several spots offer dairy-free spreads and a range of vegan bagel choices. Always check with the shop for the freshest options of the day.

Can I find gluten-free bagels in Westwood?
A few bakeries in and around Westwood carry gluten-free bagels. Availability may vary, so calling ahead is a good idea.

When is the best time to visit for fresh bagels?
Mornings are best—bagels come out fresh and warm, usually starting right when shops open. For the fullest selection and a hot bagel, try to go early.

Do most bagel shops in Westwood offer delivery or online ordering?
Many shops now provide online ordering, delivery, or curbside pickup. Check each shop’s website or call for details on how to place your order.