A cornerstone of NYC’s bagel scene for nearly 50 years, Ess-a-Bagel is known for its oversized bagels, decadent spreads, and vintage charm. Go big with a fluffy, hand-rolled bagel slathered in scallion cream cheese, or mix it up with flavors like Oreo or avocado garlic. Need something to take home? Grab a pound of Nova or belly lox at their old-school counter. Heads up: the line can get long, but whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, it's well worth the wait.

With over 100 years in the bagel business, Russ & Daughters is more than just a shop—it’s a piece of New York history. Shelves are lined with caviar, challah, and rye bread, while more than a dozen varieties of smoked fish steal the show. Order the Fancy Delancey sandwich, or keep it traditional with a bagel piled high with sturgeon and cream cheese. Pro tip: pair it with their famed matzo ball soup for the full experience.

Craving something a little outside the box? Tompkins Square Bagels has you covered with its creative spreads and all-day breakfast options. Think carrot cake or chipotle avocado cream cheese slathered on a fresh-baked bagel, or dive into a hearty sandwich like the Murray the Cop. Their bright and cozy vibe makes it a perfect neighborhood hangout for a leisurely brunch.

Black Seed puts a modern twist on a classic, offering wood-fired bagels in a sleek, minimalist setting. With 10 locations across NYC, it’s easy to find one wherever you are. Seasonal schmears like hot honey or black truffle add flair, while staples like almond butter are always on hand. Don’t miss the turkey reuben or a pizza bagel to-go for something truly unique.

One of the most famous names in NYC bagel history, H&H Bagels has been a staple since the 1970s, even making cameos in TV classics like Seinfeld and You’ve Got Mail. Try a dozen of their kettle-boiled bagels, or indulge in their signature egg sandwiches. Feeling extra hungry? Add a side of knishes or a slice of rugelach to round out your order.

No bagel tour is complete without a stop at Kossar’s, the oldest bialy bakery in the U.S. With nearly 90 years of history, Kossar’s offers a perfect blend of old-school authenticity and modern touches. Order a traditional bialy with onions and poppy seeds, or grab a loaded bagel sandwich with pastrami-cured salmon and caper cream cheese. Don’t forget to grab some babka or pletzel to-go!

Famous for its colorful creations, Liberty Bagels Midtown is Instagram heaven. Think rainbow bagels with Oreo cream cheese or festive red and green bagels for the holidays. Not just about the aesthetics, they serve hearty eats like steakwiches and hot-pressed paninis alongside lighter options like chicken Caesar wraps. Vegan? Try the tofu cream cheese! This spot is a Midtown must for locals and tourists alike.

Tucked away near major landmarks, Best Bagel & Coffee is a hidden gem serving up some of the city’s most underrated bagels. Try their Sun Dried Tomato Pesto bagel with a dollop of Bacon Honey Sriracha cream cheese, or dig into a breakfast platter with crispy tots. Perfect for a quick bite before exploring Times Square or catching a show at Madison Square Garden.

PopUp Bagels has become a neighborhood favorite, serving bagels in a hip, upbeat atmosphere across locations from Downtown to the Upper West Side. Their ever-changing seasonal schmears—think caramelized onion or spinach & artichoke—keep things fresh. Add trout roe to your bagel and pair it with a cold brew for the ultimate New York snack.