The Ultimate Guide to the Best Bagels in the World

Bagels are a staple of breakfast and brunch, and it’s no wonder why. Their chewy exterior, combined with a soft and doughy interior, make them the perfect vessel for cream cheese, lox, or any other toppings of your choice. But with so many cities claiming to have the best bagels, how do you know where to go for the ultimate bagel experience?

Fear not, my friends, for I have scoured the globe in search of the cities with the best bagels. From New York to Montreal, here are the top cities for bagel lovers everywhere.

1. New York, New York

It’s no surprise that the Big Apple tops the list for the best bagels in the world. New York bagels are known for their chewy texture and slightly crispy exterior. The secret to their success? The water. New York’s water contains a unique mineral content that gives the bagels their signature taste and texture.

When in New York, be sure to stop by one of the city’s many iconic bagel shops, such as Russ & Daughters or Ess-a-Bagel. These shops have been serving up fresh, hand-rolled bagels for generations and are a must-visit for any bagel connoisseur.

2. Montreal, Quebec

Montreal bagels are a different breed from their New York counterparts. They are sweeter and denser, with a slightly crunchy exterior. The traditional method for making Montreal bagels involves boiling them in honey water before baking, giving them their unique flavor and texture.

If you’re in Montreal, be sure to stop by St-Viateur Bagel or Fairmount Bagel. These two shops have been in a friendly rivalry for decades, each claiming to have the best bagels in the city. Try them both and decide for yourself!

3. Toronto, Ontario

Toronto may not be as well-known for its bagels as New York or Montreal, but don’t let that fool you. The city has a thriving bagel scene, with many shops offering unique and delicious variations on the classic bagel.

When in Toronto, be sure to stop by Bagel House or Blackbird Baking Co. These two shops offer a wide variety of flavors, from classic plain to everything bagels loaded with toppings.

4. Berlin, Germany

Berlin may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of bagels, but the city has a thriving bagel culture. Berlin bagels are slightly sweeter than their North American counterparts and are often filled with a variety of sweet or savory fillings.

When in Berlin, be sure to stop by The Bagel Bros or The Bagel Shop. These two shops offer a wide variety of flavors, from classic plain to more adventurous offerings like matcha or turmeric bagels.

5. Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv is a city known for its delicious street food, and bagels are no exception. Israeli bagels are slightly denser and sweeter than their North American counterparts, and are often filled with a variety of sweet or savory fillings.

When in Tel Aviv, be sure to stop by Shila Bakery or Port Said. These two shops offer a wide variety of flavors, from classic plain to more adventurous offerings like za’atar or sesame bagels.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer your bagels chewy and crispy or dense and sweet, there’s a city out there with the perfect bagel for you. From the iconic bagels of New York to the sweet and savory bagels of Tel Aviv, there’s a world of delicious bagels waiting to be discovered. So grab a friend, pack your bags, and get ready for the ultimate bagel tour of the world!

Bon appétit!