The Absolute Best Bagel in Berkeley [Updated 2025]

Having sampled over a dozen local bagel spots, I've developed a keen appreciation for what makes a bagel truly exceptional.

With a passion for both traditional and innovative flavors, my tastebuds have traveled through everything from classic plain to adventurous toppings like lox spread and everything seasoning.

Each bite tells a story, whether it's the perfect crust, the airy interior, or that nostalgic sesame flavor that transports me back to my childhood in the Bay Area.

In this article, I'll share my top picks, highlighting the unique qualities that make each bagel shop a worthy contender in the quest for Berkeley's best.

Boichik Bagels

Highlights
Great bagels and cream cheese
Customizable takeout options
Solid everything bagel
Bialys and chive shmear popular
Limited seating availability

Boichik Bagels has won my heart with their truly exceptional offerings. As soon as I stepped inside, the aromatic blend of fresh bagels and rich cream cheese beckoned me like an irresistible siren song. My choice for the day? The everything bagel—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Its perfectly crisp exterior gave way to a delightful chewy center, confirming why this bagel has earned a spot among the best.

What truly sets Boichik apart, though, is the ability to customize your takeout options. Feeling adventurous, I paired my bagel with their chive shmear, an absolute crowd favorite that danced on the palate without overpowering the bagel's subtle flavors. For those inclined to explore beyond the classic, the bialys are a hidden gem worth discovering.

While the limited seating may leave you desiring a more relaxed atmosphere, the vibe is comforting and casual, encouraging you to savor every bite as you plan your next visit. Overall, Boichik delights with its incredible bagels and charming ambiance, making it a top contender in the delightful competition for the best bagel in Berkeley. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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Boichik Bagels - 6th St. Factory

Highlights
Warm bagels not guaranteed
Welcoming team and private tours
Bagel-making process is impressive
Outstanding flavor and quality
Ideal for groups and families

Nestled in the heart of Berkeley, Boichik Bagels - 6th St. Factory is a true gem for bagel lovers like myself. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by a welcoming team ready to share the magic behind their bagel-making process. Although I was advised that warm bagels are not always guaranteed, the tantalizing aroma wafting through the air beckoned me closer.

What struck me most was the outstanding flavor and quality of their offerings. Each bagel was a masterpiece, crafted with precision and baked to perfection. I watched in awe as the skilled artisans twisted and shaped dough into a delightful array of textures and tastes. The invitation to take a private tour was not only a treat for my taste buds, but also an enlightening experience that deepened my appreciation for the craft.

This place is perfect for groups and families, with an inviting atmosphere that makes you want to linger. If you’re on the hunt for the best bagel in Berkeley, Boichik is a stop you simply cannot miss. With every bite, you’ll find yourself falling in love with this bagel oasis!

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EL TINY CAFE

Highlights
Friendly, unique atmosphere
Overstuffed sandwiches
Great Vietnamese coffee
Top-notch service
Ideal work and chill spot

EL TINY CAFE is a delightful gem tucked away in Berkeley, and my visit proved to be an unexpected adventure. As I stepped inside, I was instantly charmed by the unique atmosphere—the kind that makes you want to settle in with a good book and a tasty snack.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the bagels! When I ordered their everything bagel, I was taken aback by its sheer size; it felt more like an overstuffed sandwich than a simple bagel. Packed with fresh toppings and brimming with flavor, it was a satisfying experience from the first bite to the last crumb.

What truly sets EL TINY apart, however, is not just the food but the top-notch service. The staff exudes warmth and genuine care, making me feel right at home. Alongside my bagel, I indulged in a cup of their great Vietnamese coffee—the perfect companion to my meal.

Whether you’re looking for a place to work or unwind, EL TINY CAFE checks all the boxes. It's more than just a stop for a bagel; it's a delightful destination where every visit feels special.

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Beauty's Bagel Shop

Highlights
Fresh ingredients
Perfect balance of textures
Kind and friendly staff
High-quality flavorful toppings
Nice atmosphere

Visiting Beauty's Bagel Shop in Berkeley was like stepping into a bagel lover's paradise! From the moment I walked in, the warmth of the inviting atmosphere enveloped me, highlighted by the cheerful smiles of the kind staff. It truly felt like I was among friends at the neighborhood café.

The bagels themselves are a masterclass in baking. Each bite revealed a perfect balance of textures: a crisp exterior giving way to a soft, chewy interior. As I savored my everything bagel, I was delighted by the freshness of the ingredients that made every bite sing. The high-quality toppings were not just an afterthought; they elevated the entire experience.

For the adventurous at heart, the variety of flavorful options they offer is truly impressive. I opted for the house-made cream cheese, which was delicious beyond words. Overall, Beauty's is an absolute jewel in Berkeley's bagel scene, providing not just food but a delightful experience. If you’re on the hunt for the best bagel in town, consider this spot—where every bite feels like a special occasion!

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The Butcher’s Son Vegan Delicatessen & Bakery

Highlights
Amazing breakfast options
Free coffee available
Energetic and friendly staff
Great outdoor seating
Yummy menu with varied choices

As I strolled into The Butcher’s Son on a sunlit morning, I was immediately captivated by the warm, inviting atmosphere. The aroma of freshly baked bagels wafted through the air, teasing my senses and promising a delightful culinary experience. As a self-proclaimed bagel aficionado, I was intrigued by their extensive vegan menu that still honored the beloved bagel tradition.

The staff were a burst of energy and kindness, making me feel right at home as they shared their favorite choices. I opted for their signature everything bagel, toasty and generously sprinkled with seeds, which created a symphony of flavors with every bite. Paired with a luscious, vegan cream cheese that was surprisingly decadent, I found myself in bagel heaven.

Ah, and did I mention the free coffee? A perfect pairing that enhanced my morning ritual. I made sure to savor the lovely outdoor seating that complemented the vibrant Berkeley vibe. All in all, The Butcher’s Son has earned a special place in my heart—and my stomach—as an exceptional spot for bagels that are not just for vegans, but for anyone seeking a delightful breakfast experience. Truly, a gem worth revisiting!

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Bagel Street Café

Highlights
Good selection of bagels
Quick and fast-paced service
Notable Pesto Bagel option
Limited seating available
Convenient to-go option

When I stepped into Bagel Street Café, I was immediately struck by the bustling vibe it's known for. This place is all about speed without sacrificing quality, making it a haven for the bagel aficionado in a rush. The range of bagels they offer is impressive, but the true star of my visit was the Pesto Bagel. This delightful creation makes your taste buds dance with its harmonious balance of flavors—peppery, fresh basil intertwined with the comforting chewiness of a perfectly baked bagel.

Though the seating is limited, they're well-equipped for those who prefer to grab and go. I appreciated the quick service, which allowed me to savor my bagel without feeling rushed. The café’s charm lies in its efficiency while maintaining that homemade touch. So, if you find yourself wandering through Berkeley yearning for a delicious start to your day, pop by Bagel Street Café. Trust me, that Pesto Bagel will become your new favorite! If you love bagels that tantalize yet offer a comfortingly familiar experience, you’ll want to make this spot a part of your routine.

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Mariposa Baking Company

Highlights
Dedicated gluten-free bakery
Variety of tasty options
Nice atmosphere and parking
Popular on weekends
Vegan options available

When it comes to bagels in Berkeley, Mariposa Baking Company is truly a gem nestled in the bustling city. The cozy atmosphere warmly welcomes you as soon as you step inside, and I was thrilled to discover that this is a dedicated gluten-free bakery. For those who think bagels must be either gluten-laden or tasteless, prepare to be pleasantly surprised.

Their selection is impressive, featuring a variety of tasty options that cater to diverse dietary preferences, including delightful vegan choices. I indulged in their classic everything bagel, and let me tell you, it delivered on flavor and texture—crisp on the outside, chewy on the inside, and packed with everything bagel toppings that danced on my palate.

Despite being a popular spot, especially on weekends, I found ample parking—a rare treat in Berkeley! If you’re on the hunt for a bagel experience that breaks the mold and illustrates just how delicious gluten-free can be, Mariposa deserves a spot on your list. This isn't just about bagels; it's about joyfully redefining expectations. So grab a bagel, and savor the moment!

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Rainbow Donuts

Highlights
Artistic and delicious donuts
Wide variety of options
Vegan-friendly selections
Friendly and welcoming staff
Customizable breakfast sandwiches

Review of Rainbow Donuts

Upon stepping into Rainbow Donuts, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant decor and the welcoming atmosphere. The name might suggest a focus on donuts, but let me assure you that their bagels are nothing short of magical!

I indulged in their everything bagel, which was generously topped with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and that delightful mix of spices. Each bite was a flavorful journey, showcasing the perfect amount of chewiness and a crispy exterior. The bagel was so fresh that it practically sang with delight. What truly sets them apart, though, is their customizable breakfast sandwiches. I opted for a vegan cream cheese option, and it didn’t disappoint—rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying.

The staff were incredibly friendly, radiating warmth and enthusiasm that made my visit feel like a cozy brunch with friends. Plus, their dedication to offering vegan-friendly selections highlights their commitment to inclusivity.

Overall, Rainbow Donuts is a delightful surprise that’s more than just a donut shop; it’s a bagel paradise waiting to be explored. Do yourself a favor and stop by to taste the wonder!

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Bageltopia

Upon entering Bageltopia, I was instantly greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked bagels. Their selection is nothing short of extraordinary! I tried the everything bagel, toasted to perfection, with a generous spread of cream cheese that was both rich and creamy. The balance of flavors was exceptional—each bite a delightful crunch followed by a soft, chewy center. What truly sets Bageltopia apart is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients. Combine that with their friendly service, and you've got a bagel experience that left me yearning for more. Bageltopia is definitely a standout in the Berkeley bagel scene!

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Poppy Bagels

Stepping into Poppy Bagels feels like entering a bagel lover's utopia! Their hand-rolled creations are a delightful blend of crispy exterior and chewy interior, perfected through a unique boiling process. I delighted in the everything bagel, generously topped with poppy, sesame, and garlic seeds—a flavor explosion with each bite. The spread options are equally impressive, but I found their classic shmear elevated the experience wonderfully. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely brunch or a quick grab-and-go. If you’re in Berkeley and craving a bagel that dances on the palate, Poppy is a must-visit gem!

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Berkeley Bagels

Berkeley Bagels is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of the city! As I stepped inside, the enticing aroma of freshly baked bagels enveloped me, calling my name. I opted for the signature Everything Bagel, perfectly chewy with a golden crust that crackled delightfully with each bite. The lavish smear of cream cheese was rich and smooth, elevating the whole experience. The staff were friendly and passionate, adding warmth to my morning. If you’re on the hunt for a bagel that embodies both comfort and quality, Berkeley Bagels is a must-visit for any true bagel enthusiast! 🥯✨

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Nuha's Cafe

At Nuha's Cafe, the bagels are a delightful fusion of tradition and creativity. The moment I took a bite, I was greeted by a crispy exterior that quickly gave way to a chewy, fluffy interior—a texture that is simply to die for. Their classic sesame bagel, adorned with just the right amount of seeds, paired perfectly with a creamy schmear of herb-infused cream cheese. The ambiance is cozy, making it an ideal spot for brunch or a casual catch-up. If you're in search of a bagel that sings with each bite, Nuha’s is a must-try destination in Berkeley!