The Most Popular Bagel in NYC, Ranked

Choose the Bagel you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 19, 2024 06:30
When in New York City, the simple choice of where to grab a bagel can be overwhelming due to the myriad of esteemed options available. Each corner shop, bakery, and café claims to offer 'the best' bagel in the metropolis. Thus, having a reliable list of top-rated bagels, shaped by public opinion, can guide locals and tourists alike to make a gratifying choice. By engaging in our live ranking system, users have the opportunity to cast their votes and influence the standing of each contender. This dynamic tally not only reflects the current popular consensus but also offers an updated guide as new feedback is continuously integrated. Your participation helps ensure that the ranking remains reflective of genuine preferences and discoveries.

What Is the Most Popular Bagel in NYC?

  1. 1
    38
    votes

    Everything Bagel

    David Gussin
    This is the most popular bagel in NYC due to its combination of flavors and textures. It is topped with a mixture of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion, garlic, and salt.
    The Everything Bagel is a popular type of bagel in New York, renowned for its combination of flavors and textures. It is a classic New York-style bagel that is generously coated with a unique blend of different toppings, giving it a distinct look and taste.
    • Toppings: The Everything Bagel is typically topped with a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion flakes, dried garlic flakes, and coarse salt.
    • Texture: The bagel has a chewy exterior and a soft, doughy interior.
    • Flavor: The combination of toppings gives the bagel a savory, slightly nutty, and garlicky flavor.
    • Appearance: The bagel's toppings create a speckled appearance on its golden crust.
    • Versatility: The Everything Bagel is versatile and pairs well with various toppings, spreads, or fillings.
    Everything Bagel in other rankings
  2. 2
    28
    votes
    The plain bagel is a classic and simple option that is perfect for any type of topping. It is a staple in NYC breakfast culture.
    The Plain Bagel is a classic and traditional type of bagel that is widely enjoyed in New York. It is known for its simplicity and versatility, making it a beloved choice for breakfast or any time of the day. The Plain Bagel is characterized by its golden-brown exterior, soft and chewy texture, and a slightly sweet taste.
    • Shape: Circular with a hole in the center
    • Size: Generally around 4-5 inches in diameter
    • Texture: Soft and chewy inside, slightly crispy outside
    • Ingredients: Flour, water, yeast, salt, and sometimes sugar or malt syrup
    • Toppings: Can be served plain or with various toppings like cream cheese, butter, or lox
    Plain Bagel in other rankings
  3. 3
    32
    votes
    The sesame seed bagel is a popular choice in NYC due to its nutty flavor and crunchy texture. It is often paired with cream cheese or lox.
    The Sesame Seed Bagel is a popular type of bagel found in New York City. It is a round bread roll with a distinctive golden-brown crust covered in sesame seeds. The bagel has a chewy texture on the inside and a firm exterior. It is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, either plain or with various toppings such as cream cheese, lox, or butter. The sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a crunch to the overall taste.
    • Shape: Round, with a hole in the center
    • Crust: Golden-brown
    • Texture: Chewy on the inside, firm exterior
    • Toppings: Commonly enjoyed plain, with cream cheese, lox, or butter
    • Flavor: Nutty, with a slightly sweet taste
  4. 4
    11
    votes

    Cinnamon Raisin Bagel

    Davidovich Bakery
    This sweet bagel is a popular choice for breakfast or brunch in NYC. It is often toasted and served with cream cheese or butter.
    The Cinnamon Raisin Bagel is a unique twist on the classic New York bagel. It is a dense and chewy round bread roll, speckled with cinnamon and studded with juicy raisins. The bagel has a sweet and slightly spicy flavor, making it a perfect breakfast or snack choice for those with a sweet tooth. It can be enjoyed plain, toasted with butter or cream cheese, or even used as a base for sandwich fillings.
    • Bagel Type: Boiled and baked
    • Size: Standard 4.5-inch diameter
    • Texture: Dense and chewy
    • Flavor: Sweet and slightly spicy
    • Ingredients: Enriched wheat flour, cinnamon, raisins, sugar, salt, yeast, water
    Cinnamon Raisin Bagel in other rankings
  5. 5
    19
    votes

    Poppy Seed Bagel

    Jewish bakers
    The poppy seed bagel is a classic NYC favorite. Its texture and flavor make it a perfect pairing with cream cheese or smoked salmon.
    The Poppy Seed Bagel is a well-known variation of the traditional bagel, popular in New York. It is named after the tiny black seeds that are scattered across its surface, adding a distinct flavor and texture. This bagel creation is credited to Jewish bakers who brought their culinary traditions to the city.
    • Flavor: Slightly nutty with a hint of sweetness
    • Texture: Chewy inside and crispy outside
    • Appearance: Covered in poppy seeds
    • Size: Typically around 4-5 inches in diameter
    • Color: Brown with black poppy seeds
    Poppy Seed Bagel in other rankings
  6. 6
    4
    votes

    Onion Bagel

    Davidovich Bakery
    The onion bagel is a savory option that is perfect for breakfast or lunch. Its flavor pairs well with cream cheese or deli meats.
    The Onion Bagel is a traditional New York-style bagel with a savory twist of onions incorporated into the dough. It has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor with a unique aroma, making it a favorite among bagel enthusiasts.
    • Size: Standard bagel size, typically around 3.5 inches in diameter
    • Texture: Chewy interior with a crispy and golden crust
    • Ingredients: High-quality wheat flour, yeast, water, onions, and a pinch of salt
    • Preparation: Hand-rolled and boiled before being baked to perfection
    • Onion infusion: Onions are either diced and mixed into the dough or finely grated and added to the water used for boiling the bagel
    Onion Bagel in other rankings
  7. 7
    7
    votes
    The pumpernickel bagel has a distinct flavor and is often paired with smoked salmon or cream cheese. It is a popular choice for brunch in NYC.
    The Pumpernickel Bagel is a type of bagel originating from New York City. It is known for its distinct dark brown color and rich, earthy flavor. The dough is made from a mixture of rye flour and molasses, giving it a dense and slightly sweet taste. The exterior is typically firm and chewy, while the interior remains soft and moist. Pumpernickel Bagels are often topped with sesame or poppy seeds to add extra texture and flavor.
    • Color: Dark brown
    • Flavor: Rich and earthy
    • Dough: Rye flour and molasses mixture
    • Texture: Firm and chewy exterior, soft and moist interior
    • Toppings: Sesame or poppy seeds
    Pumpernickel Bagel in other rankings
  8. 8
    15
    votes

    Salt Bagel

    Murray Lender
    The salt bagel is a salty and savory option that is perfect for those who love a strong flavor. It is often topped with cream cheese or lox.
    The Salt Bagel is a classic New York staple that has gained immense popularity for its unique and savory flavor. It is a variation of the traditional bagel, topped generously with coarse salt, which enhances its taste and texture. The Salt Bagel is known for its crispy exterior and chewy interior, making it a delightful treat for bagel enthusiasts. It is typically enjoyed plain or with a spread of cream cheese or butter.
    • Size: Standard bagel size (approximately 3-4 inches in diameter)
    • Shape: Circular with a hole in the center
    • Texture: Crispy exterior and chewy interior
    • Topping: Generously coated with coarse salt
    • Flavor: Savory and slightly salty
    Salt Bagel in other rankings
  9. 9
    5
    votes
    This spicy bagel is a popular choice in NYC due to its unique flavor. It is often paired with cream cheese or avocado for added flavor.
    The Everything with Jalapeño Bagel is a spicy twist on the classic Everything Bagel, a beloved staple in New York City. Created to cater to those who enjoy a little heat with their breakfast or lunch, this bagel offers a flavorful combination of savory and spicy elements. The bagel is made with a traditional dough infused with jalapeño peppers and topped with a generous amount of everything bagel seasoning, consisting of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion flakes, garlic flakes, and salt. The result is a bagel that packs a punch of heat and bursts with rich flavors.
    • Type: Bagel
    • Flavor: Spicy
    • Base Dough: Traditional bagel dough
    • Infusion: Jalapeño peppers
    • Topping: Everything bagel seasoning (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion flakes, garlic flakes, salt)
  10. 10
    7
    votes

    Blueberry Bagel

    Ess-a-Bagel
    The blueberry bagel is a sweet option that is perfect for breakfast or brunch. It is often toasted and served with cream cheese or butter.
    The Blueberry Bagel is a type of bagel that is known for its sweet and fruity flavor. It is made with a combination of traditional bagel ingredients and fresh blueberries, giving it a unique and vibrant taste. The blueberries are mixed into the dough, resulting in a beautiful purple color throughout the bagel.
    • Size: Standard bagel size
    • Texture: Chewy and dense
    • Shape: Round with a hole in the center
    • Ingredients: High-quality flour, blueberries, water, yeast, salt, and malt
    • Topping options: Plain, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds
    Blueberry Bagel in other rankings

Missing your favorite Bagel?

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Discussion

Ranking factors for popular Bagel

  1. Quality of the bagel
    The texture, taste, and freshness of the bagel are essential in determining its popularity. A good bagel should have a crusty exterior and a soft, chewy interior. The flavors should be well-balanced, and the bagel should be freshly baked.
  2. Variety of flavors and toppings
    A popular bagel shop should offer a wide range of bagel flavors and toppings to cater to different taste preferences. This can include classic flavors like plain, sesame, and everything, as well as more unique options like cinnamon raisin, jalapeno cheddar, and sun-dried tomato. Toppings may include a selection of cream cheeses, spreads, and sandwich fillings.
  3. Reputation of the bagel shop
    The popularity of a bagel can also be influenced by the reputation of the bagel shop. A shop with a strong local following, positive reviews, and media mentions is more likely to have a popular bagel.
  4. Price and value for money
    While quality is essential, the price of the bagel is also a significant factor. A popular bagel should be reasonably priced while still maintaining a high level of quality.
  5. Location and accessibility
    The bagel shop's location can impact its popularity. A centrally located shop in a high-traffic area, or a shop that is easily accessible by public transportation, is more likely to attract customers.
  6. Service and atmosphere
    The overall service, ambiance, and cleanliness of the bagel shop can influence a customer's perception of a bagel's popularity. A comfortable, inviting environment with friendly and efficient service can lead to repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth.
  7. Cultural significance
    Bagels have a strong cultural and historical connection to New York City, particularly within the Jewish community. A popular bagel in NYC may be one that respects and reflects these traditions in its preparation and presentation.
  8. Consistency
    A popular bagel should maintain a consistent level of quality across multiple visits. This consistency is essential for building customer loyalty and repeat business.
  9. Innovation
    While traditional flavors and techniques are essential, offering innovative options that cater to changing consumer tastes can also contribute to a bagel's popularity. This can include vegan or gluten-free alternatives or creative flavor combinations.
  10. Social media presence and online reviews
    In today's digital age, a bagel shop's online presence on social media and review platforms like Yelp can significantly impact its popularity. A strong online presence with positive customer feedback can help to attract new customers and maintain a loyal following.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Bagel in NYC. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Bagel is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1794 views
  • 164 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Bagel once every 24 hours. The rank of each Bagel is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular bagel in nyc

New York City is known for its diverse culinary scene, and one popular item that has become a staple in the city is the bagel. Originally brought over by Jewish immigrants in the late 1800s, the bagel has since become a beloved breakfast food for New Yorkers of all backgrounds. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which bagel is the most popular in the city. Some may argue that the classic plain bagel reigns supreme, while others might swear by the everything bagel with its savory blend of toppings. But one thing is for sure: New Yorkers take their bagels seriously. From the type of cream cheese to the way it's toasted, everyone has their own preferences. So, whether you're a local or a tourist, be sure to grab a bagel from one of the many iconic bagel shops around the city and taste for yourself what all the fuss is about.

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