My Quest for the Best Bagels: A New York City Adventure with Lox and Cream Cheese

New York City is a food lover's paradise. It's hard to think of a more iconic food item that draws visitors and locals alike than the bagel. With a soft, chewy interior and a perfectly crunchy crust, New York bagels serve as the perfect base for toppings like lox and cream cheese. Every bite feels like a delightful experience. Join me on my quest through the vibrant streets of New York to find the ultimate bagel!

The Beginning of My Best Bagel Odyssey

My adventure kicked off on a crisp Saturday morning, perfect for a bagel crawl. As an avid bagel enthusiast, I knew that one bagel wouldn’t satisfy my cravings. I planned to visit several of the city's renowned bagel shops to find the best bagel topped with lox and cream cheese. Equipped with a map and a ready appetite, I set out to explore the Upper West Side.

The First Stop: H&H Bagels

Kicking off at H&H Bagels on the upper west side, this was a no-brainer. This iconic bagel maker has been a New York institution since 1972 and is celebrated for its classic bagels, with a motto: 'Like no other in the world.' truly a favorite of mine from the very first taste in 1992.

As I stepped in, the smell of freshly baked bagels wrapped around me like a warm hug. I chose an everything bagel with lox and cream cheese, a quintessential choice.

A delicious everything bagel topped with lox and cream cheese from H&H Bagels.

With my first bite, the warmth of the bagel mingled with the creamy richness of the cream cheese. This brought back so many memories of perfect combination for a toasted everything bagel. The lox added a smoky yet mild flavor, creating a deliciousthat set a high standard for the day.

Can we talk Proust's Landscape of Memory? Walking through the Pike Place market in Seattle munching on a NY style bagel to stepping in to NYC's Russ & Daughters (see below for a morning nosh). I was definitely a happy camper and the were many more bagels to come!

A Trip to Russ & Daughters

Next up was Russ & Daughters, another legendary establishment dating back to 1914. More than just a bagel shop, it's a deli firmly rooted in tradition. I visited their newer location at Hudson Yards, same amazing quality.

Russ & Daughters Neon sign at Hudson Yards Shop

Upon entering, I was greeted by an impressive display of smoked fish and an array of bagels that made my mouth water. I opted for a sesame bagel topped with cream cheese and a generous portion of sable, a buttery smoked fish known for its rich flavor.

Selection of smoked fish.

The combination was exquisite. The crunchy bagel and delicate sable paired perfectly, while the cream cheese added a smooth touch. It was an experience that highlighted the artistry of New York's food scene.

Onward to Broad Nosh Bagels

Next, I ventured to Broad Nosh Bagels, a local & relatively new chain of bagel shops in Manhattan. Visiting their Times square location with its massive display of cream cheese spreads, smoked fish and more. Their bagels feature swirled cuts on the top and slightly browner and crisp texture when. toasted.

A crisply toasted garlic bagel with bacon scallion cream cheese.

As I entered, the aroma of toasting bagels and the cleanliness greeted me. The counter service is efficient and quick. My choice was a toasted garlic bagel with bacon, scallion cream cheese and slice fresh red onions.

Deli case filled with many flavored cream cheese spreads.

The fresh, tangy cream cheese was studded with bacon bits and herbal scallion flavor. Sometimes less is more, and this bagel perfectly illustrated that idea.

Final Destination: Ess-a-bagel

To cap off my quest, I headed to Ess-a-bagel on the Eastside, 3rd Avenue., renowned for its mouthwatering toppings, long lines and massive bagel sandwich creations.. They didnt dissappoint.

Cream cheese and smoked salmon bagel. The classic combo.

I opted for a poppy seed bagel with cream cheese and lox. As I took my final bites, I reflected on my day. The bagel was fluffy and perfectly chewy—everything a bagel lover could hope for.

The lox was fresh, while the cream cheese added a nice tang that balanced the richness of the fish. It was the ideal finale to a day rich with flavor and experience.

A True Bagel Lover's Reflection

As I walked through the streets after my bagel hunt, I felt a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of bagels in New York City. Each shop captured a unique essence, revealing why these treats hold a special place in many hearts.

My favorites? H&H Bagels for the classic vibe, Russ & Daughters for a taste of history, and . There may not be a "best" bagel, as each brings something different to the table.

Wrapping Up My Bagel Quest

The search for the ultimate bagel in New York City was more than just a culinary adventure; it was a delightful journey filled with flavors, textures, and stories. Each stop reflected the rich tapestry of NYC’s diverse culinary culture.

For bagel enthusiasts and tourists alike, I encourage you to embark on your own quest. Take the time to savor these local gems, not just for the bagel itself but for the vibrant essence of New York that each shop embodies.

So grab your map, lace up your comfortable shoes, and chase those perfect bagels! You might discover that your love for these delicious rings of dough grows even stronger, just as mine did.