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The Best of New York · Eat · Bagels

The best bagels in New York City

Updated October 2026. 11 places.

I’ve probably spent more on bagels this year than most people spend on groceries. No shame. When you live in a city with this many options, you have to do the research. After years of early morning taste-testing (tough life, I know), I’ve narrowed it down to the spots that are actually worth the wait. And yes, there will be a wait. Here are the best bagels in New York City.

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best bagels in New York City, 2026

  1. Ess-a-BagelBagel shop · MidtownIn my opinion, Ess-a-Bagel sets the standard for all NYC bagels.
  2. Bagel Bob’sBagel shop · Greenwich Village & Upper East SideThis cash-only establishment churns out some of the softest bagels in New York City.Takes credit cards now, not cash only; the University Place shop is in Greenwich Village (Bagel Bob’s, September 2026; Apple Maps and NYC Planning, checked October 30, 2026).
  3. Best Bagel & CoffeeBagel shop · MidtownPopping into Best Bagels always feels like a treat.
  4. Black Seed BagelsBagel shopBut between you and me, overlooking this neighborhood haunt would be a mistake because these are some of the best bagels in NYC.
  5. Bo’s BagelsBagel shop · Harlem
  6. Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee CompanyBagel shop · Greenwich Village & Chelsea
  7. Kossar’sBagel shop · Lower East SideMy friend, a lifelong local, considers Kossar’s the best bagel in the city.
  8. Russ & DaughtersBagel shop · Lower East SideThis iconic New York City bagel shop is worth a detour.
  9. Tompkins Square BagelsBagel shop · East Village & Union SquareThese traditional NYC bagels are large, airy and downright irresistible.
  10. Frankel’s DeliDeli · GreenpointBut between you and me, it’s the velvety lox that sets Frankel’s apart from the competition.

On the map

Where they are

8 neighborhoods, Midtown and Lower East Side most of all.

Lower East Side

Midtown

East Village & Union Square

Greenpoint

Greenwich Village & Chelsea

Greenwich Village & Upper East Side

Harlem

Upper West Side

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

The Best of New York 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 15 Best Bagels in New York City (2026).