Where to find some of the best bagels in the Boston area

Key Takeaways:

• Boston offers a diverse array of bagel shops, ranging from longstanding bakeries to modern establishments.
• Unique specialties include sourdough bagels made with local grains and creative flavors like jalapeño cheddar.
• Some shops have historical significance, such as Katz Bagel Bakery, founded in 1938.
• Many establishments offer online ordering or have specific pickup times, encouraging customers to plan ahead.
• National Bagel Day on January 15 is the perfect occasion to explore these local bagel spots.

Celebrating National Bagel Day in Boston

In the heart of New England, Boston’s bagel scene is as rich and diverse as the city itself. From family-run bakeries with decades of history to innovative newcomers pushing the boundaries of flavor, there’s no shortage of options for bagel enthusiasts. In honor of National Bagel Day on January 15, we’ve compiled a guide to 14 must-try bagel shops in the Boston area.

Bagel Guild: Artisan Sourdough Creations

100 Hanover St., Boston

Nestled inside the Boston Public Market, Bagel Guild is renowned for its handmade sourdough bagels crafted with local grains from Holyoke. Offering 11 varieties daily, bagel aficionados can also indulge in special offerings like the rye bagel available only on Fridays and the jalapeño cheddar bagel from Friday through Sunday. Complement your choice with a selection from their spreads and sandwiches for a complete experience.

Bagel World: North Shore’s Best Bagels

323 Main St., Reading

With a reputation for having the “North Shore’s Best Bagels,” Bagel World has multiple locations, with the Reading shop being a standout. Awarded “Best of the Readings” in 2020 by the Reading Chamber of Commerce, Bagel World specializes in Polish-inspired bagels, sandwiches, spreads, and more, making it a beloved staple in the community.

Bagelsaurus: Handmade and Heavenly

1796 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge

At Bagelsaurus , patience is rewarded. Their handmade bagels are so popular that they often sell out before closing. Open for online and walk-in orders from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and walk-in only from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekends, it’s wise to arrive early. Daily options include classics like plain and everything, while special flavors such as chocolate chip pretzel and cheddar garlic rotate throughout the week.

Better Bagels: New York Taste in Boston

83a Seaport Blvd., Boston

What began as a pop-up has flourished into two brick-and-mortar locations. Better Bagels brings authentic New York-style bagels to Boston’s Seaport and Post Office Square. Their menu boasts a variety of spreads, sandwiches, and beverages, making it a go-to spot for those craving a classic bagel as it should be.

Black Sheep Bagel Café: Harvard Square Favorite

56 John F. Kennedy St., Cambridge

Since opening in 2018, Black Sheep Bagel Café has become a Harvard Square institution. Known for their hand-rolled bagels in creative flavors like Cajun spice, za’atar, and rosemary sea salt (available Friday through Sunday), they’ve also expanded to include a small market space in Cambridgeport, catering to the local community’s needs.

Brick Street Bagels: A Unique Approach

312 Shawmut Ave., Boston

In the South End, Brick Street Bagels has garnered attention with its unique concept. Operating through daily bagel drops, orders must be placed online, adding an element of anticipation. Alongside traditional offerings, they’ve delighted customers with innovative creations like the “Bagel Pocket” and pizza bagels.

Exodus Bagels: Family-Owned Tradition

2 McCraw St., Roslindale

Producing “over 6,000 bagels a week along with all the schmear & shtuff that goes on them,” as their website proudly proclaims, Exodus Bagels is a family-owned operation that doesn’t disappoint. Their menu features an array of sandwiches, including the Vegan Classic with carrot lox and Tofutti cream cheese, and The Bubby, boasting chicken liver pâté and horseradish beets.

Goldilox Bagels: Just Right Every Time

186 Winthrop St., Medford

At Goldilox Bagels , good things come to those who wait. Orders are available for pickup from 7 to 11:30 a.m. on Fridays and 8 to 11:30 a.m. on weekends. Their enticing menu includes the Just Right Breakfast Sandwich and pizza bagels. For those hosting brunch, they offer bulk orders ranging from six to 36 bagels.

Katz Bagel Bakery: A Historical Gem

139 Park St., Chelsea

Established in 1938, Katz Bagel Bakery is a local icon that lays claim to inventing the pizza bagel. This family-run bakery keeps things simple yet delightful, serving a range of bagels, cream cheeses, and pastries that have satisfied generations of Bostonians.

Kupel’s Bakery: Kosher and Classic

421 Harvard St., Brookline

Since 1978, Kupel’s Bakery has been offering kosher bagels and traditional Jewish breads and pastries. Their commitment to quality and tradition has made them a cornerstone in the Brookline community, attracting both locals and visitors alike.

Mamaleh’s Delicatessen: Delis Done Right

15 Hampshire St., Cambridge

Mamaleh’s Delicatessen has expanded its reach since opening in Cambridge’s Kendall Square in 2016, adding locations in Brookline, Somerville, and Boston’s High Street Place. Garnering accolades like “Best New Restaurant” and “Best Deli,” they’re known for their Nova Lox Sandwiches, Reubens, and a loyalty program that rewards devoted patrons.

PopUp Bagels: Fresh and Exclusive

70 Pier 4 Blvd., Boston

New to Boston, PopUp Bagels opened its doors in January, introducing the city’s bagel lovers to their “grip, rip and dip” philosophy. Each bagel is baked fresh and served hot, with options like the TikTok-famous Grillo’s Pickles Pickle de Gallo schmear available exclusively at this location.

Rebelle: Award-Winning Artistry

249 Third St., Cambridge

Making the move from Providence to Cambridge in June 2023, Rebelle is just steps away from Chef Milena Pagán’s alma mater, MIT. Known for hand-rolled bagels made from scratch, their cream cheeses—smoked harissa, roasted poblano pepper, Mexican street corn—add a gourmet touch that’s hard to resist.

Rosenfeld’s Bagels: Time-Honored Techniques

1280 Centre St., Newton

For over 50 years, Rosenfeld’s Bagels has been a Newton favorite, preserving traditional baking methods. By boiling their bagels and hand-making every challah loaf and spread, they offer authenticity in every bite. Their selection includes both classic and unconventional flavors like caraway and pumpernickel.

Discover Your New Favorite

Whether you’re a lifelong bagel devotee or new to the delight of this boiled and baked treat, Boston’s bagel shops offer something special. This National Bagel Day, venture out and explore the rich textures and flavors that these 14 establishments bring to the table. Each one embodies a piece of the city’s culinary tapestry, waiting to be savored.