Best Bagels in NY: Tompkins Square Bagels

Everyone in New York and beyond has an opinion about bagels so I’m just going to put my two cents out there. Tompkins Square Bagels makes the best bagels, period. A great bagel has to be big and round, golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside and doughy on the inside – and that’s what Thompkins Square Bagels are.

With two locations (the original location at 165 Avenue A by Tompkins Square Park and 184 2nd Avenue between 11th and 12th Street) in the East Village, Tompkins Square Bagels is a neighborhood bagel shop but also a destination spot for many New Yorkers who know a good bagel when they taste one.

With nearly two dozen types of bagels (including spelt with flaxseed, gluten-free, whole wheat, multigrain, chocolate chip, cinnamon raisin, and more), Tompkins Square Bagels also makes a variety of bagel sandwiches for breakfast, lunch, or snack (the stores are open until 7 pm).

One of the things I love about Tompkins Square Bagels is that they know how to make a bagel sandwich. When I ask for a toasted multigrain or whole wheat bagel with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and spinach, I get a bagel sandwich 3 inches thick for about $3.50. There’s no skimping on the fixing’ at Tompkins Square Bagels.

So, if you’re in New York City, take a trip to the East Village and enjoy one of the best New York as to offer. Don’t let the long line out the door (it moves fast) deter your mission. On weekends there are at least 10 really, really nice guys/gals behind the counter (and a bunch more on the grill). Bring cash because credit cards are not accepted.