Beigels have come a long way from their humble beginnings in the Jewish communities of 17th-century Poland. Traditionally baked for religious festivals, these dense, chewy rounds of dough migrated across the Atlantic with Eastern European immigrants, cementing their status in New York delis as the grab-and-go breakfast. Fast forward to the present day, and the Americanized bagels are having a major moment, with London serving up some serious contenders post-Covid.
From classic salt beef to the TikTok-approved ‘everything bagel’ - a genius invention from the ‘80s that combines sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt in one flavourful bite – and even rainbow creations with sweeter toppings, we’ve got it all. Ready to discover the best bagels in London? You’re in the right place.
Where To Find Jewish Beigels
Beigel Bake, Brick Lane
If I could only choose one London dish for the rest of my days, the salt beef beigel from this Brick Lane institution could easily be it. Gracing Londoners with legendary creations for 50 years now, Beigel Bake is a cornerstone of East End culture. Open 24/7, this no-frills spot is famed for its iconic kosher beigel, stuffed to the brim with tender, juicy salt beef, a generous slathering of tangy mustard, and a meaty pickle for that perfect balance. It’s a classic for a reason, and people flock here day and night for a taste of the real deal.
While its white façade may seem unassuming, Beigel Bake’s fresh, chewy handfuls have earned it a cult following… so much so, that it’s constantly pitted against the “yellow bagel shop” just a few doors down. Like the North/South divide, or Arsenal vs Spurs on Derby Day, this rivalry is a contentious one. But we all know that it’s Beigel Bake’s round-the-clock service, unbeatable salt beef, and old-school charm that make it the clear winner. And I won’t take any contradiction.
This is THE Brick Lane bagel shop.
Rinkoff Bakery, Whitechapel
A not-so-hidden gem in the heart of East London, Rinkoff Bakery (or Rinkoffs) has been serving up some of the best bagels in London since 1911. This Jewish family-run bakery has been a staple of the Whitechapel community for over a century, when Hyman Rinkoff made the move from Kiev. Stepping into Rinkoffs feels like walking into a piece of the city’s culinary history, with its old-school charm and generations of baking expertise shining through.
Their legendary rainbow bagels are a firm favourite with both locals and tourists, and, like their counterparts at Beigel Bake nearby, Rinkoffs make a mean salt beef. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, then their chocolate babka, croissant cookies and crodoughs (a croissant-doughnut hybrid) are a top choice. Whether you’d like one topped with crushed pistachio, filled with a tangy, fruity curd, or finished with a drizzle of chocolate and a Kinder Bueno, you’ll find it all here.
Rinkoffs are known for their sweet and savoury selection.
For Authentic New York Bagels In London
The Bagel Guys by Paulie’s, Netil Market & Well Street Market
The Bagel Guys (by Paulie’s Bagels) are making serious waves on the scene, offering some of the most irresistible NYC-style bagels this side of the Atlantic. With locations at Hackney’s Netil Market and Well Street Market, the sourdough maestros have perfected the art of the boil and bake, with husband-and-wife duo Paul and Jordan behind everything from the classic cream cheese and lox to their fan-favorite Reuben - packed with pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing.
Founded by a pair of Londoners with a deep love for the Big Apple’s delis, bodegas and pizza parlours, The Bagel Guys transport a bite of US culture right here in the capital. If you've worked up an appetite, then head here for bacon, egg and cheese on hand-rolled dough, washed down with a freshly made lemonade.
You might have to queue for these faves.
Papo’s Bagels, Dalston
Papo’s Bagels bring a slice of New York straight to Shacklewell Lane, and trust us, these bad boys are the real deal. Founded by two Brooklyn natives with a passion for authentic eats, Papo’s supply that perfect NYC-style bagel crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, with just the right amount of bite.
The standouts? Their classic lox and cream cheese bagel, loaded with silky smoked salmon; and the egg and cheese bagel sandwich, which is breakfast perfection. With a focus on simple, high-quality ingredients and a laid-back vibe, Papo’s is a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of the Big Apple without leaving London.
This viral shop is doing it the NYC way.
It's Bagels, Primrose Hill
An idea that arose during the pandemic, It's Bagels is the brainchild of New York-born photographer Dan Martensen. Yearning for a taste of home as the world stood still, Martensen took to his kitchen, eventually launching the brand as a delivery service and pop-up at Caravan Coffee Roasters in the summer of 2022. Fast forward to September 2023, and the first bricks and mortar site landed at 65 Regent’s Park Road.
If you’ve braved the queue, then chances are that you’ve tried their cream cheese schmears by the tub, flavoured lox (that’s salmon for you schmucks), or the fried egg with cheese that that is up there among the best breakfast bagels London has to offer. They also do a mighty everything bagel, but more on those below…
A venue so popular, it's now opening in Notting Hill.
Where To Find Everything Bagels
B Bagel London, various locations
Found yourself searching for “breakfast bagels near me” then you’re in luck because these guys have stores all across the city; from Camden to Soho and Fulham. Founded by brothers Yoni and Ronen, who grew up surrounded by the rich bagel culture of Tel Aviv and brought that passion to London, B Bagel blends Middle Eastern flavours and NYC techniques and modern touches to bring Londoners classics and sweet options such as Nutella or blueberry cream cheese.
Expect a seriously impressive range of top-tier savoury fillings that cater to all palates. Whether you're after a traditional Reuben or salt beef, or something heartier like the dirty breakfast - a mouthwatering stack of egg mayo, turkey bacon, caramelised onion, melted cheddar and special sauce - there's something for everyone. Level up with sesame, poppy, onion, or the everything bagel for only 10p extra.
These just might be the best bagels in Central London.
Rye Lane Bagels, Peckham
Flying the flag for bagels in South London, Rye Lane Bagels delivers bold flavours to a vibrant food scene. Known for a quirky menu, this local favourite sees everything from classics to signature specials like the lamb shoulder melt with pulled lamb, cream cheese, cucumber, tomatoes, pickles, chilli, tajin and a huge dollop of melted cheese.
Founder Abhinav Saxena (who you might know from Boxwallah at Peckham Levels) has created a spot that reflects the diverse, eclectic spirit of the area, making Rye Lane Bagels a go-to for those who want something more than just your standard bagel.
These are up there with the best everything bagels in London.
For more deli dishes, check our our guide to kosher food in London. Sign up to our newsletter and hear about the latest trends.
