Nothing says New York City breakfast like a warm, chewy bagel slathered with cream cheese, paired with a steaming cup of coffee. Manhattan’s bagel scene is legendsary, with shops serving up hand-rolled, boiled, and baked classics that draw locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re craving a traditional sesame bagel with lox or a creative twist like a rainbow bagel, this guide will take you through the best bagel breakfast spots in Manhattan. From historic bakeries to modern innovators, you’ll find the best bagels near me on this mouthwatering bagel food tour. Get ready to taste the city’s most famous bagels and learn why they’re a cultural staple.
Ess-a-Bagel: A Classic Bagel Institution
Ess-a-Bagel, with locations in Midtown and Gramercy, is a cornerstone of NYC’s bagel culture, serving some of the best bagels for breakfast since 1976. Their bagels are hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, and baked fresh daily, resulting in a crisp crust and dense, chewy interior. The sesame bagel with cream cheese and lox is a crowd favorite, with generous portions of silky smoked salmon and tangy schmear. You can also try their everything bagel with scallion cream cheese for a savory kick.
The Midtown shop at 831 Third Avenue is bustling, with a line often spilling onto the sidewalk—a testament to its popularity. Inside, the aroma of fresh bagels fills the air, and the staff moves quickly to keep orders flowing. Choose from over a dozen bagel flavors, including pumpernickel and cinnamon raisin, and pair with spreads like olive cream cheese or tofu-based options for vegans. Ess-a-Bagel’s oversized bagels are perfect for sharing, but you’ll want one all to yourself. Visit early to beat the rush, and grab a seat at their small counter if you’re dining in. For a true NYC experience, take your bagel to go and enjoy it on a bench in nearby Central Park.
Tompkins Square Bagels: Creative and Colorful
Tompkins Square Bagels in the East Village (165 Avenue A) is a must-visit for those seeking the best bagels with a modern twist. Known for their hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels, this shop stands out with creative cream cheese flavors and vibrant options like rainbow bagels. Their everything bagel with bacon-chive cream cheese is a savory delight, while the birthday cake cream cheese on a plain bagel offers a sweet surprise. You can also build your own sandwich with toppings like pastrami or avocado.
The shop’s artsy vibe, with local artwork on the walls, adds to its charm. Lines can be long on weekends, so arrive early or visit on a weekday for a quieter experience. The staff is friendly, often chatting with regulars as they slather on generous scoops of cream cheese. Tompkins Square Bagels also offers vegan and gluten-free options, making it inclusive for all diets. Pair your bagel with a cold brew or fresh juice, and take a stroll through Tompkins Square Park to soak in the neighborhood’s eclectic energy.
Best Bagel & Coffee: A Midtown Gem
Best Bagel & Coffee at 225 West 35th Street is a go-to for Midtown workers and tourists seeking the best bagels near me. This no-frills shop serves massive, hand-rolled bagels with a perfect balance of crusty exterior and soft interior. Their poppy seed bagel with plain cream cheese is a classic, but the smoked whitefish salad sandwich is a standout for its rich, smoky flavor. With over 20 cream cheese varieties, including walnut-raisin and jalapeno, you’ll find something to suit any craving.
The shop’s efficient service makes it ideal for a quick breakfast on the go. You’ll see locals grabbing bagels before heading to Penn Station or nearby offices. The space is small, with limited seating, so plan to take your order to a nearby plaza or park. Prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a budget-friendly option. Visit during the morning rush to feel the pulse of NYC, and don’t miss their oversized cookies for a sweet treat.
Zabar’s: A Bagel Haven on the Upper West Side
Zabar’s, at 2245 Broadway, is a legendary Upper West Side deli and grocery that’s been serving famous bagels since 1937. While known for its gourmet foods, Zabar’s bagels are a highlight, boiled and baked to achieve a glossy crust and chewy texture. The onion bagel with nova lox and cream cheese is a classic, with the lox sliced paper-thin for perfect balance. You can also try their garlic bagel with herb cream cheese for a bold flavor.
The bagel counter is part of Zabar’s bustling deli section, where you’ll find an array of smoked fish, cheeses, and spreads. Pick up a bagel sandwich to enjoy at their small café area, or grab a half-dozen bagels to take home. Zabar’s also sells their signature cream cheese in tubs, perfect for recreating the experience later. The shop’s lively atmosphere, with locals chatting and staff calling out orders, feels quintessentially New York. After your meal, browse the store’s aisles for unique ingredients or head to Riverside Park for a scenic walk.
Murray’s Bagels: Greenwich Village Tradition
Murray’s Bagels at 500 Sixth Avenue in Greenwich Village is a beloved spot for bagel purists, offering some of the best bagels for breakfast since 1996. Their bagels are hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, and baked on-site, with a focus on traditional flavors like sesame, poppy, and everything. The whole wheat everything bagel with scallion cream cheese is a fan favorite, offering a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch. Murray’s also serves hearty sandwiches, like the pastrami salmon with mustard and capers.
The shop’s cozy, wood-paneled interior feels like a step back in time, and the staff’s quick service keeps the line moving. Murray’s has a strict no-toasting policy to preserve the bagel’s texture, a nod to their commitment to authenticity. You can dine at one of their small tables or take your bagel to Washington Square Park for a picturesque breakfast. Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience, and pair your bagel with their strong drip coffee.
Leo’s Bagels: Financial District Favorite
Leo’s Bagels at 3 Hanover Square in the Financial District is a top pick for downtown bagel lovers, serving the best bagels near me since 2007. Their bagels are hand-rolled, boiled in barley malt, and baked to a golden sheen, with a slightly sweet, chewy texture. The cinnamon raisin bagel with honey-walnut cream cheese is a sweet treat, while the everything bagel with lox spread is a savory classic. Leo’s also offers smoked fish platters for a more substantial meal.
The shop’s bright, modern space is a welcome contrast to the bustling Financial District. You’ll find Wall Street workers grabbing bagels to go, but there’s seating for those who want to linger. Leo’s is known for its friendly service and consistent quality, making it a reliable stop. Visit early to avoid the lunch rush, and take your bagel to nearby Battery Park for a waterfront breakfast. Their bagels freeze well, so grab a few extras for later.
The Bagel Store: Williamsburg’s Rainbow Revolution
While technically in Brooklyn, The Bagel Store at 349 Bedford Avenue is worth a quick subway ride from Manhattan for its famous rainbow bagels. These colorful, hand-rolled bagels are a social media sensation, with a slightly sweet flavor and soft texture. Pair one with their funfetti cream cheese for a dessert-like breakfast, or try a classic poppy bagel with veggie cream cheese for a traditional taste. The shop also offers unique sandwiches, like the bacon-egg-and-cheese on a rainbow bagel.
The Bagel Store’s quirky, colorful interior reflects its playful approach, and the staff is happy to help you choose. Lines can be long, especially on weekends, so arrive early or order online. You can sit at their small counter or take your bagel to McCarren Park for a relaxing meal. The Bagel Store’s innovative spirit makes it a must for bagel enthusiasts looking for something new.
Kossar’s Bagels & Bialys: Lower East Side Legacy
Kossar’s Bagels & Bialys at 367 Grand Street in the Lower East Side is one of NYC’s oldest bagel bakeries, serving famous bagels since 1936. Specializing in both bagels and bialys (a flatter, onion-filled cousin), Kossar’s offers a taste of Jewish baking tradition. Their sesame bagel with plain cream cheese is a simple classic, while the bialy with lox spread is a unique treat. You can also try their pumpernickel bagel with smoked sable for a rich, smoky flavor.
The shop’s retro signage and no-nonsense vibe reflect its long history, and the staff’s efficiency keeps the line moving. Kossar’s small interior has limited seating, so plan to take your order to a nearby park or bench. The shop is a short walk from the Tenement Museum, making it a great stop for a cultural morning. Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds, and pick up a dozen bagels to share with friends.
Bagel Pub: Park Slope’s Hidden Gem
Bagel Pub at 287 9th Street in Park Slope (accessible via a short subway ride from Manhattan) is a local favorite for its artisanal approach to the best bagels. Their bagels are hand-rolled, boiled, and baked in small batches, with a focus on quality ingredients. The everything bagel with herb cream cheese is a standout, with a perfect blend of seeds and spices. You can also try their blueberry bagel with maple cream cheese for a sweet start to your day.
The shop’s warm, inviting space features wooden tables and a chalkboard menu, creating a cozy atmosphere. Bagel Pub’s staff is known for their friendly service, often recommending pairings based on your preferences. You can dine in or take your bagel to Prospect Park for a scenic breakfast. The shop also offers catering trays, ideal for group breakfasts. Visit early to catch the freshest batches, and don’t miss their house-made iced tea.
Practical Tips for Your Bagel Food Tour
To make the most of your bagel food tour, start early—most shops open by 7 a.m. and get busy by 9 a.m. Bring cash for smaller shops like Kossar’s, as some have minimums for card payments. Lines are common at popular spots, so be patient or visit on weekdays for shorter waits. Many shops offer online ordering for pickup, which can save time. If you’re carrying bags, use a luggage storage service to move freely between stops.
Pair your bagels with coffee or juice, but skip sugary drinks to let the bagel’s flavor shine. Most shops have limited seating, so plan to eat in nearby parks or plazas. If you’re visiting in fall, dress in layers, as morning temperatures can be chilly. Combine your tour with other Manhattan activities, like a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or a visit to Rockefeller Center, for a full day of fun.
Combining Your Bagel Tour with NYC Attractions
Manhattan’s bagel shops are near some of NYC’s top attractions, making it easy to build a full day around your breakfast adventure. After Ess-a-Bagel, head to Central Park for a morning stroll. From Murray’s Bagels, Washington Square Park is a short walk away. Leo’s Bagels pairs well with a visit to Battery Park, while Kossar’s is close to the Tenement Museum. You can also hop on the subway to reach shops like The Bagel Store and explore Williamsburg’s street art scene.
For a cultural afternoon, visit the Museum of Modern Art near Best Bagel & Coffee or the Empire State Building after Zabar’s. End your day with a Broadway show near Times Square, a quick subway ride from most bagel spots. A sightseeing cruise from Lower Manhattan is another great way to cap off your day, offering views of the Statue of Liberty.
The Museum of Modern Art: Culture Near Murray’s Bagels
If you’re coming from Murray’s Bagels in Greenwich Village, a 15-minute subway ride (or a pleasant 25-minute walk) takes you to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) at 11 West 53rd Street. This world-renowned museum is a fantastic way to spend your afternoon, showcasing an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. You’ll find works by artists like Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh and Les Demoiselles d’Avignon by Pablo Picasso, alongside sculptures, films, and photography exhibits. The museum’s six floors are packed with pieces that inspire, from Andy Warhol’s pop art to Frida Kahlo’s evocative self-portraits.
MoMA’s airy galleries and interactive displays make it accessible for all visitors. You can grab a light lunch at the museum’s Terrace Café, which offers sandwiches and salads to complement your earlier bagel, or browse the gift shop for art-inspired books and prints. Audio guides, available via smartphone, provide detailed commentary, and guided tours are great for first-timers. Plan for two to three hours here, and book skip-the-line tickets to avoid waiting. MoMA’s location near Fifth Avenue also makes it easy to window-shop shop at luxury boutiques afterward.
Central Park: A Morning Stroll After Ess-a-Bagel
If you started your day at Ess-a-Bagel’s Midtown location, Central Park is just a 15-minute walk away, making it the perfect spot to burn off your bagel breakfast. This 843-acre green space is a haven for relaxation and recreation, with winding paths, serene lakes, and iconic sights. After grabbing a sesame bagel with cream cheese, head to the park’s entrance at 59th Street and Fifth Avenue. You can wander through the Mall, a tree-lined promenade leading to Bethesda Terrace, where the famous fountain and mosaic tiles create a picturesque setting.
For a more structured experience, rent a bike near the park’s entrance to cover more ground, or join a pedicab tour for a guided ride. The park’s fall foliage is stunning, with vibrant reds and oranges framing the landscape. If you’re with family, stop by the Central Park Zoo to see penguins and sea lions, or let kids burn energy at the Heckscher Playground. Grab a bench near the Bow Bridge to enjoy your coffee, or visit the Strawberry Fields memorial for a quiet moment. Plan to spend one to two hours here, and bring a light jacket for cooler mornings.
Rockefeller Center: Iconic Sights Near Best Bagel & Coffee
After a hearty poppy seed bagel at Best Bagel & Coffee in Midtown, Rockefeller Center is a 10-minute walk away, offering a mix of history, art, and entertainment. Located at 45 Rockefeller Plaza, this complex is famous for its Art Deco architecture, seasonal ice rink (open from late fall), and the Top of the Rock observation deck. The plaza’s golden Prometheus statue is a great spot for photos, and the surrounding shops sell NYC-themed gifts perfect for souvenirs.
You can take a guided tour of Rockefeller Center to learn about its construction during the 1930s and its role in media with NBC Studios. If you’re visiting in November, the ice rink is a festive draw, where you can skate or watch skaters glide under the towering Christmas tree (set up by mid-month). For panoramic views, head to the Top of the Rock for a less crowded alternative to the Empire State Building, with clear sights of Central Park and the skyline. Allow one to two hours for your visit, and book tickets online to save time. Pair your visit with a stop at the Channel Gardens, where seasonal displays add charm.
Your Bagel Adventure Awaits
Your bagel food tour through Manhattan is a delicious way to experience NYC’s culinary heart. From Ess-a-Bagel’s classic sesame with lox to The Bagel Store’s rainbow creations, you’ve tasted the best bagels and visited iconic bagel breakfast spots. Pair your tour with a one day guided sightseeing tour to see landmarks like the Empire State Building, or grab last minute Broadway tickets for a show like Hamilton to end your day. For more inspiration, check out VisitNYC.com for the best tourist things to do in New York City!
