There’s something quietly magical about biting into a warm, freshly baked bagel. In Wilmington, NC, this simple pleasure isn’t hard to find—if you know where to look. From hole-in-the-wall neighborhood gems to polished cafés with a New York touch, this coastal town serves up bagels worth waking up for.
After a stroll through downtown on a cool morning, I once found myself lingering over a toasted everything bagel layered with fresh tomato and crisp cucumber. The shop? Modest. The flavor? Unforgettable. That’s the thing about Wilmington’s bagel scene—it surprises you. This guide was made to cut through the clutter and point you straight to the best bagels in Wilmington, NC, whether you’re a local craving familiarity or a visitor in search of a solid breakfast bite. Let’s get into it.
Where to find the best bagels in Wilmington, NC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bagels in Wilmington, NC:
- Java Dog
- Seaside Bagels
- S&L New York Style Deli
- Tugboat Tony’s Bagel Cafe
- Beach Bagels
- Atlanta Bread Wilmington
- Round Bagels & Donuts
- Empire Deli and Bagels
- Beach Bagels
- Manhattan Bagel
1. Java Dog
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Java Dog sits tucked inside the Cotton Exchange, and it’s the kind of place that feels like a local secret. The vibe is relaxed, the staff is friendly, and the coffee is always on point. It’s not flashy, but it doesn’t need to be.
I once grabbed a toasted plain bagel here with cream cheese and a drizzle of honey—simple, but the texture was spot on. Their bagels are fresh, chewy, and never dry, which is more than you can say for most places trying to pass off bread as a bagel.
Pair your bagel with a butter pecan latte or a classic Americano. The balance of flavor and quality makes Java Dog a quiet standout in Wilmington’s breakfast scene.
2. Seaside Bagels
+1 910-769-1827
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Seaside Bagels is the kind of place where the warmth comes not just from the oven, but from the people running it. Tucked inside a small strip mall, this family-owned shop has a low-key vibe and a strong neighborhood following. Everything is made to order, and that shows in the quality.
I once ordered their rosemary and sea salt bagel with a veggie spread, and the balance of herbs and texture was surprisingly good. The bagels here are soft on the inside, crisp on the outside, and never overworked. It’s clear they take their time.
Try their spinach and tomato bagel with plain cream cheese—it’s a standout. Seaside Bagels delivers freshness, thoughtful flavor, and small-town charm with every bite.
3. S&L New York Style Deli
Walking into S&L New York Style Deli feels like stepping into a corner deli in Queens—minus the subway rumble. The energy is brisk, the portions are generous, and the bagels? Decidedly New York in spirit and execution. This family-run spot has been serving Wilmington since 2005, and it shows in the confidence of their menu.
I once ordered their egg and cheese on a sesame bagel, and it hit all the right notes—warm, chewy, and satisfying without being overdone. The bagels have that classic NY-style crust with a soft, flavorful interior, and they don’t skimp on the fillings.
Go for the everything bagel with veggie cream cheese or a classic egg sandwich. S&L delivers authenticity with no shortcuts, and that’s what keeps people coming back.
4. Tugboat Tony’s Bagel Cafe
Tugboat Tony’s Bagel Cafe, located at 106 N Water St, Wilmington, NC, is a cozy waterfront gem offering a delightful mix of vegetarian-friendly and vegan options. Known for its fresh, hand-rolled bagels and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. The cafe’s commitment to quality and friendly service makes it a must-visit in the heart of Wilmington.
What sets Tugboat Tony’s apart is its perfectly chewy bagels, paired with a variety of spreads and toppings. Try their signature Everything Bagel with Veggie Cream Cheese for a burst of flavor, or the Tofu Scramble Bagel Sandwich, a vegan favorite. Each bite reflects their dedication to fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Stop by to enjoy bagels that are as warm as the atmosphere!
5. Beach Bagels
Beach Bagels, located at 7220 Wrightsville Ave, is a vibrant spot known for its award-winning, baked-in-house bagels and lively atmosphere. Open since 2012, it has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, especially for those craving a wholesome breakfast or lunch with a coastal flair.
My visit turned memorable when I ordered their bagel sandwich topped with pimento cheese and fresh mozzarella—each bite bursting with flavor. The aroma of sizzling apple-wood bacon and house-made sausage truly enhances the experience, reflecting their dedication to quality and bold flavors.
Popular picks include their signature sandwiches and monthly specials. Beach Bagels perfectly blend gourmet ingredients with a friendly, energetic vibe.
6. Atlanta Bread Wilmington
Atlanta Bread Wilmington, located at 6886 Main St, offers a bright and inviting atmosphere for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Known for its freshly baked artisan bread and a variety of healthy options, it’s a go-to spot for those seeking quality and convenience. Their menu features vegetarian and vegan choices, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and freshness.
During my visit, I enjoyed a warm, crusty bagel with savory cashew spread—simple yet satisfying. The bagels here are flavorful, with a perfect chew, and baked daily. Their attention to fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation truly stands out.
Just a few bites of their signature bagel paired with fresh produce highlight Atlanta Bread Wilmington’s dedication to quality. It’s a place where good taste meets a welcoming environment.
7. Round Bagels & Donuts
Round Bagels & Donuts, located at 890 S Kerr Ave, is a cheerful cafe offering 16 varieties of authentic New York-style bagels along with fresh donuts. Their menu features a wide selection of cream cheeses and cooked-to-order breakfast and lunch bagel sandwiches, making it a versatile spot for any time of day.
One visit stands out—sitting outside with my bagel breakfast, I enjoyed the crispy edges and chewy center of their everything bagel, topped with classic cream cheese. The fresh ingredients and skillful preparation make all the difference.
If you’re looking for a satisfying bagel in Wilmington, this place’s combination of quality and variety is hard to beat. Their signature bagels truly reflect their dedication to freshness and flavor.
8. Empire Deli and Bagels
Empire Deli and Bagels, tucked along 7419 Market St, delivers the kind of no-frills New York-style breakfast that Wilmington locals appreciate. The shop keeps things simple, focusing on well-crafted bagels and hearty sandwiches that suit every time of day.
One morning, I picked up a toasted plain bagel with scallion cream cheese. The edges were crisp, the center warm and chewy—classic preparation done right. The real charm was the unfussy atmosphere and quick service that made the stop easy and satisfying.
Try the egg and cheese on a sesame bagel or a lox sandwich on everything bagel—rich, balanced, and generous without being overwhelming. Their breakfast lineup shows they value freshness and keep it authentic.
Whether grabbing takeout or settling in for a slow brunch, Empire Deli and Bagels stands out for consistency and comfort.
9. Beach Bagels
Beach Bagels is a beloved destination in Wilmington, NC, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delectable offerings. Since its founding in 2012 at Wrightsville Beach, it has been a favorite among locals, especially college students and families, thanks to its inviting open kitchen concept where guests can witness the lively hustle of the staff.
What sets Beach Bagels apart is its commitment to quality and creativity. Customers are drawn in by the aroma of freshly baked bagels and sizzling apple-wood bacon. The menu boasts unique toppings, such as jalapeno black-bean hummus and fresh mozzarella, that showcase the bold flavors and gourmet ingredients.
For a true taste of what Beach Bagels offers, try their signature bagels topped with chorizo and pimento cheese. These dishes exemplify the restaurant’s dedication to creating memorable, flavorful experiences.
10. Manhattan Bagel
(910) 256-1222Call
Manhattan Bagel on Wrightsville Avenue is where Wilmington mornings start right. The aroma alone pulls you in—freshly baked bagels with that signature dense-yet-soft chew that sets a good East Coast-style bagel apart.
What stood out most to me? The calm buzz. It’s not rushed, but it runs like clockwork. I grabbed a classic plain bagel with scallion cream cheese, and it hit that perfect mark between comfort and flavor. Everything is house-prepped, and it shows.
If you’re ordering, lean into the Egg & Cheese on Everything. It’s balanced, not greasy, and the seasoning has real crunch. No fluff, just solid, satisfying food.
Manhattan Bagel doesn’t need frills. It focuses on quality, consistency, and real-deal flavor.
More Things to Try in Wilmington, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I find the best bagels in Wilmington, NC?
A: Some top spots include Java Dog, Seaside Bagels, and Round Bagels & Donuts. These places are known for their fresh, flavorful bagels with a variety of toppings and styles.
Q: Are there vegan or vegetarian bagel options in Wilmington?
A: Yes, several bakeries like Beach Bagels and Tugboat Tony’s offer vegetarian and vegan options, including spreads like hummus and plant-based toppings.
Q: Can I get bagels made to order in Wilmington?
A: Absolutely. Many places, including S&L New York Style Deli and Empire Deli & Bagels, prepare custom sandwiches and bagels fresh for each order.
Q: Do Wilmington bakeries offer gluten-free bagels?
A: While most focus on traditional bagels, some spots like Beach Bagels and certain cafes may offer gluten-free options—it’s best to call ahead to confirm.