San Diego's Best Bagels [Updated 2024]

I've sampled countless bagels over the years, from hole-in-the-wall shops to trendy cafes. And let me tell you, San Diego does not disappoint when it comes to these doughy delights.

With a total of 11 bagel spots under my belt, I'm here to share my top picks for the best bagels in San Diego. So grab a cup of joe and get ready to embark on a lighthearted journey through the city's most delectable round treats.

Just be warned, you might find yourself craving a bagel by the end of this article!

Solomon Bagels & Donuts

Highlights
Best bagels on the west coast
Variety of schmears and options
Delicious donuts
Early bird special
Great coffee taste

First things first, let's talk about the bagels. Solomon Bagels & Donuts boasts the best bagels on the west coast, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint. These perfectly baked wonders of dough are chewy, dense, and oh-so-satisfying. Each bite is like a little taste of bagel heaven.

Now, let's talk variety. Solomon Bagels & Donuts offers an impressive selection of schmears and toppings that will make any bagel lover weak in the knees. From classic cream cheese to unique creations like smoked salmon spread or jalapeno cheddar, there's something for everyone's taste buds. It's like a playground for your morning carbs.

But wait, there's more! Solomon Bagels & Donuts also serves up some seriously delicious donuts. I know this review is about bagels, but I couldn't resist trying one (or two) of their sweet treats. Trust me when I say they were worth every calorie.

What really sets Solomon Bagels & Donuts apart is their commitment to the early birds among us. They offer an early bird special where you can get a discounted price on a bagel and coffee combo before 9 am. So not only do you get to enjoy the best bagel in San Diego, but you also get great value for your money.

Speaking of coffee, let's not forget about that glorious cup of joe that pairs so perfectly with a fresh bagel. The coffee at Solomon Bagels & Donuts is top-notch – smooth, flavorful, and brewed to perfection.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the ultimate bagel experience in San Diego, look no further than Solomon Bagels & Donuts. With their heavenly bagels, wide range of schmears and toppings, delectable donuts, early bird special, and great coffee taste, they truly deserve a spot on the list of best bagels in San Diego. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

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Baked Cafe

Highlights
Top notch bagels
Great coffee
Friendly staff
Original breakfast food
Local NY style

Let me start by saying that Baked Cafe is truly a hidden gem when it comes to bagels in San Diego. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of fresh-baked goodness. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, as if I had stepped into a little corner of New York City.

Now, let's talk about the bagels themselves. Oh boy, were they top notch! Each bite was an explosion of delightful flavors and textures. From the perfectly crispy exterior to the soft and chewy interior, these bagels were a true work of art. Whether you prefer classic plain or adventurous everything bagels, Baked Cafe has got you covered.

Of course, no bagel experience is complete without a good cup of coffee, and Baked Cafe definitely delivers on that front too. Their coffee was rich and flavorful, providing the perfect accompaniment to my delicious bagel.

What really stood out to me at Baked Cafe was not just the outstanding food but also the friendly staff. They were attentive and knowledgeable, ready to offer recommendations or answer any questions I had. It's always refreshing to encounter such warm hospitality.

While their main focus is on their amazing bagels, Baked Cafe also offers a variety of original breakfast options that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eater. From creative egg dishes to mouthwatering sandwiches, their menu is a testament to culinary innovation.

In conclusion, if you're in search of an authentic NY-style bagel experience in San Diego, look no further than Baked Cafe. With their top-notch bagels, great coffee, friendly staff, and original breakfast offerings – they have truly earned their place among the best bagel spots in town. So go ahead and indulge yourself in this delightful haven for bagel lovers!

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Golden Bagel

Highlights
Tender chew
True traditional style
Generously made
Friendly and respectful staff
Clean place

Let me start by saying, if you're looking for a bagel that is both tender and chewy, then Golden Bagel is the place to go. The bagels here are made in true traditional style, with a dough that is perfectly balanced between dense and fluffy.

What I love most about Golden Bagel is how generously they make their bagels. Each bite feels like a mouthful of pure bliss. Whether you prefer plain or everything, their selection has something to satisfy every bagel lover's cravings.

The staff at Golden Bagel are not only friendly but also respectful. They take the time to listen to your preferences and help you find the perfect combination of flavors. It's refreshing to be treated with such kindness in a world where service can sometimes be lacking.

Moreover, the cleanliness of the place adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience. You can tell that they prioritize hygiene and take pride in providing their customers with a pleasant environment.

In conclusion, Golden Bagel lives up to its name as one of the best bagel spots in San Diego. With its tender chewiness, true traditional style, generous portions, friendly staff, and clean atmosphere - it's a must-visit for any bagel aficionado. So next time you're craving a delicious bagel, head on over to Golden Bagel and treat yourself to a taste bud sensation that will leave you wanting more!

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Bruegger's Bagels

Highlights
Delicious food
Super friendly staff
Large selection of bagel sandwiches
Awesome workers
Incredible One-Stop breakfast restaurant

Walking into Bruegger's Bagels, I was immediately greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked dough. The display case showcased an array of beautifully crafted bagels that made it difficult to choose just one. The moment I took my first bite into their delicious food, I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

The staff at Bruegger's Bagels were not only attentive but also exceptionally friendly. They took the time to explain the different bagel flavors and recommended their personal favorites. Their warm smiles and genuine enthusiasm added a delightful touch to my dining experience.

One thing that impressed me about Bruegger's Bagels was their diverse selection of bagel sandwiches. From classic combinations like lox and cream cheese to creative concoctions like turkey avocado, they catered to every taste bud out there. Each sandwich was carefully prepared with high-quality ingredients, resulting in a harmonious symphony of flavors.

The workers at Bruegger's Bagels were truly awesome. They efficiently managed the bustling morning rush without compromising on service or quality. It was evident that they genuinely cared about providing an exceptional experience for their customers.

Bruegger's Bagels is truly an incredible one-stop breakfast restaurant. Whether you're craving a quick bite on the go or looking to enjoy a leisurely brunch with friends, this place has got you covered. So next time you find yourself in San Diego, make sure to stop by Bruegger's Bagels for a bagel experience that will leave you craving for more!

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Big City Bagels Cafe- BCB Cafe

Highlights
Affordable prices
Fresh bagels
Variety of spreads
Delicious pastries
Friendly staff

Walking into BCB Cafe, I was immediately drawn in by the aroma of freshly baked bagels wafting through the air. As a self-proclaimed bagel connoisseur, I couldn't resist indulging in their delectable offerings.

What struck me first was the affordable prices, which made my wallet sigh with relief. It's refreshing to find a place that understands the importance of quality without breaking the bank. Speaking of quality, let's talk about those bagels!

BCB Cafe knows how to make a bagel right. Their bagels are perfectly chewy and dense, with a slight crispness on the outside. Each bite was like a little taste of heaven. And don't even get me started on their variety of spreads! From classic cream cheese to adventurous flavors like sriracha and bacon jam, they have something for everyone.

But it doesn't stop at bagels. BCB Cafe also offers an array of delicious pastries that will make your taste buds dance with joy. The croissants were flaky, buttery perfection, and the muffins were moist and bursting with flavor.

One thing that truly stood out during my visit was the friendly staff. They greeted me with warm smiles and were more than happy to answer any questions I had about their menu.

In conclusion, if you're searching for San Diego's best bagels, look no further than Big City Bagels Cafe- BCB Cafe. With their affordable prices, fresh bagels, variety of spreads, delicious pastries, and friendly staff, this place has everything you need to satisfy your bagel cravings. Trust me when I say you won't be disappointed!

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Spill the Beans Coffee and Bagels

Highlights
Delicious coffee
Dog friendly
Extensive menu
Fresh sandwiches
Friendly staff

Walking into Spill the Beans Coffee and Bagels, I was immediately hit with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The delicious scent wrapped around me like a warm blanket on a chilly morning. And let me tell you, their coffee did not disappoint. Every sip was a little slice of caffeinated heaven.

But let's not forget about the star of the show - the bagels! Spill the Beans offers an extensive menu of flavors and toppings that cater to all bagel enthusiasts. From classic plain to everything bagels, they have it all. And each bagel is baked to perfection, with a golden crust and soft, chewy center.

Not only are their bagels top-notch, but they also offer a variety of fresh sandwiches. The combination of their flavorful bagels with high-quality ingredients creates a symphony of taste in every bite.

One thing that really impressed me about Spill the Beans is how dog-friendly they are. They even have special treats for furry friends! So why not bring your four-legged companion along for some breakfast bonding?

The staff at Spill the Beans are incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, always ready to assist you in finding your perfect bagel match. Their friendly nature adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your overall experience.

Overall, Spill the Beans Coffee and Bagels is a delightful spot for anyone craving a satisfying breakfast or mid-day snack. With its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and fantastic service, this place truly deserves its spot among San Diego's best bagel joints.

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Einstein Bros. Bagels

Highlights
Large menu
Affordable prices
Convenient app
Well-staffed
Friendly employees

Imagine walking into a bagel wonderland, where the scent of freshly baked dough wafts through the air and a symphony of toppings beckons you to indulge. Welcome to Einstein Bros. Bagels in San Diego!

Let's start with their large menu that caters to every bagel lover's wildest dreams. From classic favorites like plain and sesame to bold creations like asiago cheese and jalapeño cheddar, there's a bagel for every palate. And don't get me started on their cream cheese spreads – they have flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Now, let's talk about prices. As someone who appreciates a good deal, I was thrilled to find that Einstein Bros. Bagels offers affordable prices without compromising on quality or flavor. It's a win-win situation for both my wallet and my taste buds.

I must commend them for their convenient app, which allows you to order ahead and skip the line – because let's face it, no one likes waiting when they're craving a warm, chewy bagel. Plus, the app keeps track of your favorite orders so you can satisfy your bagel cravings with just a few taps.

One thing that stood out during my visit was how well-staffed the place was. The employees at Einstein Bros. Bagels were not only efficient but also incredibly friendly. They greeted me with warm smiles and helpful suggestions, making my bagel experience all the more enjoyable.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a bagel joint that offers an extensive menu, affordable prices, and top-notch service, look no further than Einstein Bros. Bagels in San Diego. Trust me; it's worth every bite!

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P.L. Bagels

Highlights
Fresh bagels
Bacon egg & cheese bagel
Garlic bagel
Crispy bacon

Walking into P.L. Bagels, I was immediately greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly baked bagels. The display case was filled with an array of options that made my mouth water in anticipation.

I decided to start with their signature creation: the Bacon Egg & Cheese Bagel. As I took my first bite, the flavors exploded in my mouth like a delicious symphony. The bagel was perfectly toasted, providing a satisfying crunch as I sank my teeth into it. The combination of crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese was simply divine.

Next on my list was the Garlic Bagel. Now, if you're not a fan of garlic breath, you might want to skip this one – but boy oh boy, you'd be missing out! This bagel had just the right amount of garlic-infused into its doughy goodness. Each bite left me wanting more.

And let's not forget about their crispy bacon! It added an incredible texture and smoky flavor to every bite. It's no wonder that P.L. Bagels has become a go-to spot for bacon lovers in San Diego.

The attention to detail and quality ingredients at P.L. Bagels truly set them apart from the rest. Their dedication to producing fresh bagels is evident in every bite, and their creative menu options are sure to satisfy even the most discerning bagel connoisseur.

So next time you're in San Diego and craving a delicious breakfast or lunch option, head over to P.L. Bagels for an experience that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy – just don't forget to bring some mints for your garlic-induced breath afterward!

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Dunkin'

Highlights
Great service and quality of food
Clean and safe environment
Downtown feel of San Diego
Recommended dishes

First of all, let me start by saying that the service at Dunkin' is absolutely top-notch. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and were incredibly attentive throughout my visit. They truly understand the importance of providing excellent customer service, which is a breath of fresh air in this fast-paced world.

The quality of the food at Dunkin' is simply outstanding. Each bagel was a work of art, perfectly toasted to achieve that ideal balance between crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The variety of flavors available was impressive, ranging from classic favorites like plain and everything to more adventurous options like blueberry and cinnamon raisin.

One thing that I particularly loved about Dunkin' was the clean and safe environment they provided. As soon as I walked in, I noticed how well-maintained everything was. It's clear that they take cleanliness seriously, which is especially important during these uncertain times.

As I sat there enjoying my bagel, I couldn't help but soak in the downtown feel of San Diego that permeated through Dunkin'. It felt like a true representation of this vibrant city – bustling with energy and life.

In terms of recommended dishes, it's hard to pick just one because they were all so delicious. However, if I had to choose, I would highly recommend trying their bacon, egg, and cheese bagel sandwich. The combination of savory bacon with gooey melted cheese on a freshly baked bagel is pure perfection.

Overall, my experience at Dunkin' in San Diego was nothing short of delightful. With great service, high-quality food, a clean environment, and a downtown atmosphere, it truly stands out as one of the best bagel spots in town. So next time you find yourself craving a delectable bagel in San Diego, don't hesitate to pay Dunkin' a visit – you won't be disappointed!

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Spill The Beans Coffee and Bagels

Highlights
Delicious breakfast bagel
Great coffee
Friendly customer service

Nestled in the heart of San Diego, Spill The Beans Coffee and Bagels is a hidden gem for bagel aficionados like myself. As soon as I stepped foot into this cozy café, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and toasted bagels greeted me with open arms.

Let's talk about the bagels first because that's why we're here, right? The breakfast bagel I devoured was a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds. Each bite was a perfect marriage of softness and chewiness, showcasing their commitment to baking excellence. Whether you prefer a classic plain or an adventurous everything bagel, they have it all!

But wait, there's more! Spill The Beans doesn't just excel in the art of bagel-making; their coffee game is strong too. One sip of their expertly crafted brew transported me to caffeine heaven. It was smooth, rich, and had just the right kick to jumpstart my day. Their baristas are magicians when it comes to creating latte art too – my cappuccino arrived with a perfectly foamy heart on top.

Aside from the delectable offerings, what really sets Spill The Beans apart is their friendly customer service. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and genuine enthusiasm. The staff took the time to recommend their favorite combinations and happily answered any questions I had – a refreshing change from some places where employees seem more interested in their phone screens than helping customers.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a delicious breakfast experience in San Diego, Spill The Beans Coffee and Bagels is a must-visit destination. Their mouthwatering bagels paired with exceptional coffee and outstanding service make it an absolute winner in my book. So next time you find yourself craving a satisfying morning treat or simply need your caffeine fix, head over to Spill The Beans – your taste buds will thank you!

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Daily Bagel

Highlights
Amazing staff
Fast service
Delicious bagels
Great Vietnamese coffee

Let me start by saying that the staff at Daily Bagel is absolutely amazing. Their warm smiles and friendly greetings made me feel like a bagel VIP. They were knowledgeable about their bagels and were more than happy to help me make my selection.

Speaking of selections, the variety of bagels at Daily Bagel is enough to make any carb enthusiast weak in the knees. From classic plain and everything bagels to unique creations like jalapeño cheddar and blueberry, they have something for everyone. Each bagel was baked to perfection, with a delightful balance between a chewy interior and a slightly crispy crust.

What really impressed me was their commitment to quality and speed. Despite the morning rush, the service was incredibly fast without compromising on customer satisfaction. It's as if they had a secret superpower that allowed them to teleport your order straight from the oven to your plate.

Now, let's talk about taste. Oh boy, these bagels were delicious! Each bite was an explosion of flavor, with just the right amount of saltiness and richness. The cream cheese options were equally impressive, with flavors like scallion, strawberry, and even bacon maple (yes, you read that right). Trust me when I say that you won't be disappointed with any combination you choose.

To complement my perfect bagel experience, I decided to try their Vietnamese coffee. And boy oh boy, it was the caffeine boost I needed! The strong aroma and smooth taste of this great Vietnamese coffee added an extra level of enjoyment to my morning meal.

In conclusion, if you're looking for top-notch bagels in San Diego with an amazing staff and lightning-fast service, look no further than Daily Bagel. These guys know how to satisfy your carb cravings while keeping things fun and professional!