New York is known for its amazing bagels! Just like pizza, the quality of our bagels is credited, in part, to our water. Before they are baked, they are boiled in our famously clean water, which creates the crust and helps make them chewy. We can get them in different colors, depending on holidays, sports events, and all kinds of fun times. You just can’t get a bagel anywhere that tastes as good as a New York City bagel. Most sold would probably a toasted bagel with cream cheese, which is my go-to, but the variety of sandwich toppings is obviously endless here. Lots of delis and bagel shops have their own signature sandwiches and specialties, and sometimes it’s just fun to try something new, or even something classic. Here are some really good bagel sandwiches I have tried whenever the mood struck me.
Apollo Bagels
Apollo Bagels is all the rave these days. With several locations all over the city, people just love this new chain. And for good reason. Even though they only have three different bagels (plain, sesame and everything), they are of great quality. Crowd favorite: Scallion Cream Cheese with Tomato on a Plain Bagel. Delicious. Super fresh giant tomato slices, I love it.
Tal Bagles
Tal Bagels has three locations, and has been around since 1988. Can you get a better bagel than on the Upper Eastside? Doubtful. They are made in house fresh every day here, and they serve probably every single variety there is. Of course in this location the Lox and Cream Cheese is a no brainer. Fresh and yummy. Throw some capers on it if you’re cool.
Bagel Talk
Let’s not poopoo the Upper Westside, they have awesome bagels too! Bagel Talk is definitely one of my favorites. With several locations in the city, you’re sure to be near one. I know that us New Yorkers are required to have Bacon Egg and Cheese on a roll, but secretly I get it on a super fresh bagel at Bagel Talk. So good.
Blackseed Bagels
This Bagel shop also has several locations all around the city. They have become a household name due to their quality. Blackseed Bagels has all varieties and then some. Bagel sandwiches here are traditional, or out of the box. I like to go traditional here with the Blackseed BLT with spicy mayo. Delish.
Tompkins Square Bagels
Tompkins Square Bagels is another bagel shop that has been able to open up locations all over the city. The bagels here are made with care. Going for breakfast here? Get The Weezer! Bacon, eggs, Chorizo, Cheddar and Cream Cheese. It’s literally heaven.
