Your NJ Bagel Bucket List

Whether you prefer blueberry, everything, cinnamon raisin, rainbow or plain, bagels are indeed a “thing” in Jersey. We’re dishing out ten of our favorite places to take a bite of this glorious, doughy delight in northern, central and southern parts of The Garden State. Grab some cream cheese and let’s go!

Jersey Joes Bagels & Deli, New Providence – well-known by locals and Jerseyans throughout the state for its scrumptious selection of plump and yummy bagels at a great price. Plus, the friendly owner, Joe, gets high marks from everyone he meets.

Hot Bagels Abroad, Bloomfield – those who grew up on these delicious bagels make sure to stop by every time they’re in town. Some even go out of their way to make a special trip. Known for big, tasty bagels and quick smiley service with generous amounts of seating – both inside and out.

Udo’s Bagels, Lawrenceville – ranked by locals as one of the 10 Best Mercer County, NJ Bagel Shops, this shop does not disappoint when it comes to bagels made just right, not too hard and not too soft. Expect to see plenty of happy customers picking up orders on your visit.

Bagel Masters, Shrewsbury – hand-rolled, kettle-boiled and baked fresh daily. Soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, what more could you ask for? And if there’s a bit of a line, you’ll know why. The taste is worth waiting for.

The Bagel Nook, Princeton – featured in Food & Wine, Buzzfeed, Glamour, The Today Show, The Daily Meal and Tech Insider, you’ll find Oreo Overload, The Elvis, Coco Puff Overload and Dorito Overload bagel options and spreads like siracha honey and birthday cake cream cheese. Also, guess what? There’s a new location in Freehold, too.

Bagels n’ Cream, Robbinsville – this beloved part bagel, part coffee shop has been serving customers since 1993, and the dedication to quality and taste is evident in every single item on the menu. The bagel selection is exceptional and extensive and the bagel sandwich combos - limitless.

K&A Bagel Cafe, Cherry Hill – home to 20+ made-from-scratch bagels and fast service, this husband-and-wife run shop is known for its innovative bagel flavors and spreads and fun sandwiches like Too Peppy in the Morning (with pepperoni, of course.)

Joe’s Bagel & Grill, Sea Girt – if you’re looking for great food and good vibes, you’ll find both right here. Customers give high ranks for the enormous, hand-rolled, boiled bagels. Grab a bagel sandwich or smoothie on your way to the beach. 12 locations.

Town Bagels & Grill, Eatontown – the dough is made daily and baked to perfection, so bagels are super fresh, soft and big on taste. It’s the only bagel shop in Eatontown – and with bagels this good, one shop does the trick.

Hot Bagels & More, Margate – offering old-fashioned, no-shortcuts-taken bagels made only with fresh, non-artificial ingredients with no preservatives makes these bagels a standout. Even better, there are 5 locations to choose from.

If this whets your appetite for more great tastes and destinations in New Jersey, get your fill at VisitNJ.org. And while you’re there, access your free travel guide and sign up for our e-newsletter. See you soon!