The Quest for the Best Bagels in New York City

Bagels are a staple of New York City cuisine, and for good reason. These chewy, doughy delights have been satisfying the city’s hunger for over a century. But with so many options, where do you go to find the best bagels in the city that never sleeps?

To answer this question, we hit the streets and sampled bagels from some of the city’s most famous bakeries and delis. We tried everything from classic plain to fancy flavors like blueberry and cinnamon raisin. We judged each bagel based on its texture, flavor, and overall satisfaction. And after much tasting and deliberation, we have determined that the best bagels in New York City can be found at…

Ess-a-Bagel

Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Ess-a-Bagel has been serving up fresh, hand-rolled bagels for over 40 years. This no-frills deli is a favorite among locals, and it’s easy to see why. The bagels here are simply divine. They are chewy and dense, with a perfectly crispy crust. The flavor is bold and satisfying, making these bagels the perfect base for any sandwich or simply toasted with cream cheese.

What sets Ess-a-Bagel apart from the rest is their commitment to using only the finest ingredients. They import their malt syrup from Canada and use only the best water to create the perfect dough. And the results are evident in every bite. Whether you prefer a classic plain bagel or something a little more adventurous, like sesame or poppy seed, Ess-a-Bagel has got you covered.

H&H Bagels

H&H Bagels is a legendary bakery located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. This family-owned business has been making bagels since 1972, and they have perfected the art. The bagels here are slightly sweeter and lighter than those at Ess-a-Bagel, but they are no less delicious. They have a delicate, fluffy texture that makes them the perfect choice for a sweet breakfast treat.

One of the things that sets H&H apart is their commitment to quality. They use only the finest ingredients, including high-protein flour and pure honey, to create their bagels. And the results are truly amazing. Whether you prefer a classic plain bagel or something a little more indulgent, like cinnamon raisin or chocolate chip, H&H has got you covered.

Russ & Daughters

Russ & Daughters is a legendary deli located on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. This family-owned business has been serving up the best bagels, lox, and cream cheese in the city for over 100 years. The bagels here are chewy and dense, with a perfectly crispy crust. They are the perfect base for a classic New York-style bagel sandwich, loaded with lox, cream cheese, and all the fixings.

What sets Russ & Daughters apart is their commitment to tradition. They use only the finest ingredients, including hand-sliced salmon and locally-sourced cream cheese, to create the perfect bagel experience. And the results are truly unforgettable. Whether you prefer a classic plain bagel or something a little more adventurous, like everything or sesame, Russ & Daughters has got you covered.

Conclusion

In the end, the best bagels in New York City are a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the chewy, dense bagels of Ess-a-Bagel, while others prefer the lighter, sweeter bagels of H&H. And for those who crave tradition, Russ & Daughters is the clear winner. But no matter where you go, one thing is certain: you won’t be disappointed. New York City has some of the best bagels in the world, and each of these bakeries is a testament to that fact.

So next time you’re craving a warm, chewy bagel, head to one of these legendary bakeries and taste the best that New York City has to offer. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.

Bon appétit!