Welcome to our delicious journey through the best bagel shops in Toronto! As self-proclaimed foodies and locals, we understand the importance of finding that perfect chewy, golden-brown bagel that satisfies all your cravings. Whether you’re a cream cheese connoisseur or a fan of lox and capers, we’ve scoured the city to find the top-notch bagel spots that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. From traditional classics to innovative creations, we’ll guide you through the ultimate bagel experience in Toronto. So grab a cup of coffee, because this mouthwatering adventure is about to begin!
Key Takeaways
- When choosing the best bagel shop in Toronto, consider the location, freshness, variety, quality ingredients, texture and taste, authenticity, and word-of-mouth recommendations.
- Bagel World, St. Urbain Bagel, Kiva’s Bagel Bar, What A Bagel, and Simit & Chai Co. are some of the top bagel shops in Toronto.
- Prices for a plain bagel range from $2.50 to $3.50, with additional toppings costing between $0.50 and $2.00.
- Some of the best bagel shops in Toronto include Bagel World, St. Urbain Bagel Bakery, Gryfe’s Bagel Bakery, What A Bagel, and Kiva’s Bagel Bar.
- St. Urbain Bagel Bakery and Bagel World are known for their Montreal-style bagels.
- Vegan-friendly and gluten-free options are available at certain bagel shops in Toronto.
- Most bagel shops in Toronto offer delivery and pickup options through their websites or food delivery apps.
5 Best Bagel Shops in Toronto
If you’re a bagel lover in the vibrant city of Toronto, you’re in luck! We’ve scoured the streets to bring you the top bagel shops that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From traditional New York-style bagels to unique and creative flavor combinations, these five establishments have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of locals and visitors alike. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best bagel shops Toronto has to offer!
Name | Address | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
What A Bagel | 130 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5V 1X9, Canada | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 1469 |
NU Bügel | 240 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L7, Canada | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 610 |
Bagels On Fire | 2248 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4E 3K2, Canada | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 539 |
Bagel Time | 584 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1R1, Canada | ⭐⭐⭐ | 335 |
Primrose Bagel Co | 317A Oakwood Ave, York, ON M6E 2V3, Canada | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 286 |
What We Liked
- Delicious menu with a great variety of options
- Friendly staff and excellent service
- Spacious patio area for seating
- Tasty coffee and refreshing lemon mint drink
- Quick and efficient lunch options
What We Didn’t Like
- Patio area closed during extreme hot weather
- French toast was a bit dry
- Busy and chaotic during lunch time
- Lack of clear signage for order pickups
- Difficulty finding a staff member to be seated
What A Bagel Review
What A Bagel is a popular brunch spot known for its delicious menu and friendly staff. They offer a variety of options for breakfast and lunch, including bagels, omelettes, sandwiches, and wraps.
Pros:
- The menu has a great variety and options for the whole family.
- The staff are friendly and provide excellent service.
- The patio area is spacious and provides a comfortable seating option.
- The coffee is delicious and the lemon mint drink is very tasty.
- The wraps and sandwiches are great for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Cons:
- The patio area is sometimes closed during extreme hot weather, limiting seating options.
- The French toast can be a bit dry.
- The restaurant can get very busy during lunch time, leading to a chaotic atmosphere.
- There is a lack of clear signage for order pickups, causing confusion for customers.
- It can be difficult to find a staff member to be seated during busy times.
Rating Scores:
- Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Variety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Location: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Price: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Benchmarks:
- Quality: The food at What A Bagel is of high quality, with a great variety of options to choose from.
- Variety: The menu offers a wide range of choices, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.
- Location: The restaurant is conveniently located and easily accessible.
- Price: The prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes of the food.
- Reviews: The majority of customers have had positive experiences at What A Bagel and highly recommend it.
What A Bagel is a highly recommended brunch spot with a delicious menu and friendly staff. While there may be some minor drawbacks, such as the occasional closure of the patio area and the busy lunchtime atmosphere, the overall experience is enjoyable. The quality of the food, variety of options, and reasonable prices make it a great choice for breakfast or lunch.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
What A Bagel | 130 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5V 1X9, Canada | (647) 347-7222 |
NU Bügel
NU Bügel is a bagel shop located in the neighborhood. We visited the establishment and gathered feedback from multiple customers to provide an in-depth review. Here is what we found:
What We Liked:
- The bagels at NU Bügel are consistently nice, fluffy, and bouncy.
- The staff members are friendly and helpful, assisting customers with their choices.
- The shop provides plugs, making it convenient for customers who want to work or charge their devices.
- There is a variety of bagel options to choose from, including gluten-free options.
- The seating area in the front of the shop is pleasant and comfortable.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some customers experienced issues with the quality of the ingredients, such as graying corned beef and rotting lettuce.
- One customer mentioned that their bagel wasn’t as warm as expected, and the table they sat at was not clean.
Ratings:
- Quality: ⭐⭐⭐
- Variety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Location: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Price: Not mentioned by customers
- Reviews: Not mentioned by customers
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐
NU Bügel offers a decent variety of bagels and has a friendly staff. However, there have been some concerns raised about the quality of the ingredients and cleanliness of the seating area. While there are positive aspects to the shop, it falls short in certain areas, resulting in an average overall score.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NU Bügel | 240 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L7, Canada | (647) 748-4488 |
Bagels On Fire
Bagels On Fire is a bagel shop located in Toronto that offers a variety of bagel sandwiches and snacks. With mixed reviews from customers, we decided to visit the shop ourselves to see what the buzz is all about.
What We Liked
- The bagels at Bagels On Fire are top-notch, reminiscent of the authentic Montreal-style bagels. They are freshly made and have a perfect taste and texture.
- The Salmon Lox and Cream Cheese Bagel sandwich is a standout item on the menu. The combination of smoked salmon and cream cheese on a pumpernickel bagel is a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
- The Montreal smoked meat bagel sandwich on an everything bagel is a classic creation that satisfies cravings without being overly fancy.
- The quality of the bagels is outstanding, and the customer service is quick and friendly.
- The prices at Bagels On Fire are reasonable, making it a great spot for a quick snack or breakfast.
What We Didn’t Like
- The seating area at the shop is quite limited, with only two tables available for four people. This can make it difficult to find a place to sit during busy times.
- Some customers have reported poor customer service experiences, with the owner/manager being indifferent and making up policies on the spot.
- One customer had a particularly negative experience, with rude treatment and lack of basic human respect from the staff.
- The bagels can be inconsistent, with some customers finding them chewy and thick.
- The variety of bagels and sandwiches offered at Bagels On Fire is not extensive, limiting options for those seeking more diverse flavors.
Ratings
- Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Variety: ⭐⭐⭐
- Location: ⭐⭐⭐
- Price: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐
Overall Score: 3.4/5
Bagels On Fire offers high-quality bagels and some delicious sandwich options, particularly the Salmon Lox and Cream Cheese Bagel. However, limited seating, inconsistent customer service, and a lack of variety hold it back from being a top-tier bagel shop. If you’re in the area and craving a quick bagel fix, it’s worth a visit, but there may be better options available.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bagels On Fire | 2248 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4E 3K2, Canada | (647) 343-8484 |
Bagel Time
Bagel Time is a popular spot in town known for their delicious Montreal-style bagels. With friendly and courteous staff, this place offers a great experience for bagel lovers. However, there are a few drawbacks that need to be considered before visiting.
What We Liked
- Friendly and courteous staff
- Delicious Montreal-style bagels
- Perfect location for the area
- Gluten-free options available
- Recently expanded shop to accommodate a larger smoke pit
What We Didn’t Like
- Lack of friendly conversation from staff
- Bagels did not meet expectations in terms of taste and texture
- Limited variety in the “everything” bagels
- Avocado sandwich lacked fresh ingredients and had black spots
- Price seemed high for the quality of ingredients
Ratings
- Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Variety: ⭐⭐⭐
- Location: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Price: ⭐⭐⭐
- Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐
Bagel Time is a decent spot for those craving Montreal-style bagels. The staff is friendly and the location is convenient. However, the taste and texture of the bagels may not meet everyone’s expectations. The limited variety and high prices also detract from the overall experience. If you’re in the area and looking for a quick bagel fix, Bagel Time might be worth a visit, but there are better options available.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bagel Time | 584 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1R1, Canada | N/A | (416) 546-0177 |
Primrose Bagel Co
Short Intro: Primrose Bagel Co is a small business located outside the core part of Toronto, known for their delicious New York-style bagels and a variety of spreads. Despite the location, it is highly recommended by customers who appreciate the quality and taste of their bagels.
Pros:
- Delicious bagels with a wide variety of flavors and toppings
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Generous portions of cream cheese and lox in their sandwiches
- Adorable shop with a cozy atmosphere
- Good selection of bagel sandwiches
Cons:
- Long wait times for sandwiches on weekends
- Relatively high prices for some items
- Limited seating area
Rating Scores:
- Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Variety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Location: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
- Price: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
- Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Benchmarks:
- Quality: The bagels at Primrose Bagel Co are highly praised for their taste and texture, making them some of the best New York-style bagels in the city.
- Variety: While the selection of bagels is good, the variety of spreads and toppings available adds to the overall experience and makes it a one-stop shop for a weekend breakfast.
- Location: Although located outside the core part of Toronto, Primrose Bagel Co is worth the visit for bagel enthusiasts.
- Price: Some customers find the prices at Primrose Bagel Co to be on the higher side, especially when purchasing multiple items.
- Reviews: The majority of customers have positive experiences at Primrose Bagel Co, praising the flavors, textures, and friendly staff.
Primrose Bagel Co is a hidden gem for bagel lovers, offering delicious New York-style bagels with a variety of spreads and toppings. While the location may be a bit out of the way, customers are willing to make the trip for the high-quality bagels and friendly service. The only drawbacks are the potential long wait times on weekends and the relatively higher prices compared to other bagel shops. Overall, Primrose Bagel Co is highly recommended for those seeking a satisfying bagel experience.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Primrose Bagel Co | 317A Oakwood Ave, York, ON M6E 2V3, Canada | (416) 546-9906 |
How to Find the Perfect Bagel Shops in Toronto: Insider Tips and Tricks
When it comes to bagels, Toronto has a lot to offer. With so many options to choose from, finding the best bagel shop can be a daunting task. But fear not, fellow foodies and locals! We’re here to help you navigate the bustling bagel scene in the city.
Here are our expert tips on how to choose the best bagel shops in Toronto:
- Location, Location, Location: Consider the proximity of the bagel shop to your home or workplace. It’s always a treat to have a fresh bagel within a short distance, especially on those lazy Sunday mornings.
- Freshness is Key: Look for bagel shops that bake their bagels fresh daily. There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a warm, chewy bagel straight out of the oven. Check if the shop has a visible bakery area or ask the staff about their baking schedule.
- Variety Matters: A great bagel shop should offer a wide range of flavors and toppings. Whether you’re a fan of classic plain bagels or adventurous enough to try something like a blueberry cream cheese bagel, having options is always a plus.
- Quality Ingredients: Pay attention to the ingredients used in the bagels. The best bagels are made with high-quality flour, water, yeast, and a touch of sweetness. Avoid shops that use artificial additives or preservatives.
- Texture and Taste: A good bagel should have a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. It should be dense without being too heavy. Don’t be afraid to ask for a sample or read reviews to get an idea of the texture and taste of the bagels at a particular shop.
- Authenticity: Seek out bagel shops that stay true to the traditional bagel-making process. Look for those that boil their bagels before baking them, as this is a crucial step in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
- Word-of-Mouth: Don’t underestimate the power of recommendations from fellow foodies and locals. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for their favorite bagel spots in Toronto. Their firsthand experiences can be invaluable in your quest for the best bagel shop.
Now armed with these insider tips, you’re ready to embark on your bagel adventure in Toronto. Remember to trust your taste buds and enjoy the journey of discovering the perfect bagel shop that satisfies your cravings. Happy bagel hunting!
The Price Tag of Toronto’s Best Bagel Shops
When it comes to finding the best bagels in Toronto, not only do we consider the taste and quality, but also the affordability. Here, we break down the cost of visiting some of the top bagel shops in the city, so you can plan your culinary adventures accordingly.
Bagel Shop | Average Price for a Bagel | Additional Toppings | Average Price Range for a Meal |
|---|---|---|---|
Bagel World | $2.50 | $0.50 – $1.00 | $8.00 – $12.00 |
St. Urbain Bagel | $2.75 | $0.50 – $1.50 | $10.00 – $15.00 |
Kiva’s Bagel Bar | $3.00 | $0.50 – $2.00 | $10.00 – $15.00 |
What A Bagel | $2.50 | $0.50 – $1.00 | $8.00 – $12.00 |
Simit & Chai Co. | $3.50 | $0.50 – $2.00 | $10.00 – $15.00 |
At Bagel World, you can expect to pay an average of $2.50 for a plain bagel. If you’re looking to add some extra toppings, such as cream cheese or smoked salmon, you can expect to pay an additional $0.50 to $1.00. The average price range for a full meal at Bagel World falls between $8.00 and $12.00.
St. Urbain Bagel offers their delicious bagels at an average price of $2.75. Additional toppings, including various spreads and deli meats, will cost you between $0.50 and $1.50. For a complete meal at St. Urbain Bagel, you can expect to spend around $10.00 to $15.00.
If you visit Kiva’s Bagel Bar, be prepared to pay approximately $3.00 for a bagel. Extra toppings, such as avocado or lox, will range from $0.50 to $2.00. The average price range for a meal at Kiva’s Bagel Bar falls between $10.00 and $15.00.
What A Bagel offers their bagels at an average price of $2.50. Additional toppings, such as various spreads and deli meats, will cost you between $0.50 and $1.00. The average price range for a full meal at What A Bagel falls between $8.00 and $12.00.
Finally, at Simit & Chai Co., you can expect to pay around $3.50 for a bagel. Additional toppings, including cream cheese or Nutella, will range from $0.50 to $2.00. For a complete meal at Simit & Chai Co., you can expect to spend approximately $10.00 to $15.00.
Keep in mind that these prices are averages and may vary depending on the specific bagel
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Bagel Shops in Toronto
1. What are the best bagel shops in Toronto?
Some of the best bagel shops in Toronto include Bagel World, St. Urbain Bagel Bakery, Gryfe’s Bagel Bakery, What A Bagel, and Kiva’s Bagel Bar. These shops are known for their delicious and authentic bagels.
2. Where can I find the best Montreal-style bagels in Toronto?
If you’re looking for the best Montreal-style bagels in Toronto, you should visit St. Urbain Bagel Bakery or Bagel World. These shops are known for their hand-rolled, wood-fired bagels that have a slightly sweet taste and a chewy texture.
3. Are there any vegan-friendly bagel shops in Toronto?
Yes, there are several vegan-friendly bagel shops in Toronto. Some of the popular options include What A Bagel, Kiva’s Bagel Bar, and Bagel House. These shops offer a variety of vegan bagel options and plant-based spreads to cater to the needs of vegan foodies.
4. Do any bagel shops in Toronto offer gluten-free options?
Yes, there are a few bagel shops in Toronto that offer gluten-free options. One of the best places to find gluten-free bagels is at What A Bagel. They have a dedicated gluten-free menu with a variety of flavors to choose from.
5. Can I order bagels for delivery or pickup from these shops?
Yes, most of the bagel shops in Toronto offer delivery and pickup options. You can either order through their websites or popular food delivery apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash. Some shops may have specific delivery areas, so it’s best to check their websites for more details.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Toronto is home to some of the best bagel shops in the city. From the iconic What A Bagel on Spadina Ave to the charming and cozy NU Bügel on Augusta Ave, these establishments have garnered high ratings and positive reviews from locals and visitors alike. For those seeking a unique and flavorful experience, Bagels On Fire on Queen St E offers a five-star experience with their mouthwatering bagels. Meanwhile, Bagel Time on Danforth Ave and Primrose Bagel Co on Oakwood Ave have also left a lasting impression with their delicious offerings. Whether you’re a foodie or a local looking for your next bagel fix, these five bagel shops in Toronto are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So why wait? Go explore these hidden gems and indulge in Toronto’s bagel scene today.
Unveiling the Secrets: How We Discovered the Best Bagel Shops in Toronto
At Best In Hood, we take our mission of uncovering the crème de la crème of local eateries seriously. Our team of dedicated foodies scoured the bustling streets of Toronto to bring you the ultimate list of the best bagel shops in town. Wondering how we did it? Allow us to spill the beans!
Step 1: Extensive Research
Our journey began with an extensive research phase, where we left no stone unturned. We delved deep into the vibrant food scene of Toronto, exploring every nook and cranny to identify the top contenders in the bagel game. We scoured online reviews, consulted with local food bloggers, and even reached out to our trusted network of Toronto foodies to gather valuable insights.
Step 2: Rigorous Evaluation
Once we had compiled a comprehensive list of potential bagel hotspots, it was time to put them to the test. Our team of discerning taste buds embarked on a series of rigorous evaluations, meticulously critiquing each bagel shop on various parameters. From the crispiness of the crust to the fluffiness of the dough, no aspect was overlooked. We also took into account factors such as variety of flavors, quality of toppings, and overall ambiance to ensure a well-rounded assessment.
Step 3: Local Recommendations
We firmly believe that the local community holds the key to uncovering hidden gems. To ensure a truly authentic experience, we sought out recommendations from Toronto locals who have a finger on the pulse of the city’s food scene. Their invaluable insights helped us refine our list and ensure that we were capturing the essence of Toronto’s bagel culture.
Step 4: Final Selection
After meticulous research, rigorous evaluations, and local recommendations, we arrived at our final selection of the best bagel shops in Toronto. Rest assured, dear foodies, that this list represents the crème de la crème of bagel establishments in the city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these shops are guaranteed to satisfy your bagel cravings and leave you craving for more.
So, there you have it! Our methodology for uncovering the best bagel shops in Toronto. We hope this insight into our process instills confidence in our recommendations and helps you embark on a delightful bagel journey through the vibrant streets of Toronto. Stay tuned for more culinary adventures from Best In Hood!