Bagels. A quintessential New Jersey comfort food, they’re a favorite among BCA students for their versatility and widespread availability. From everything bagels to rainbow bagels, cream cheese to sandwiches, and everything in between, almost everyone has a go-to order and favorite store. With bagel shops in almost every corner of Bergen County, The Academy Chronicle wanted to know: what Bergen County bagels come out on top? Here are some of BCA’s favorites, in no particular order.

Bagel Emporium, Midland Park 

Located on Godwin Ave, Bagel Emporium is known for its hand-rolled bagels, and variety of toppings. From rainbow bagels to lox to bagel sandwiches, to unique holiday-themed bagels, BCA students love this spot for their fresh taste and great texture. They also have a bakery section, with freshly-made muffins and croissants.

“They have the best bagels! The inside is soft, but not too soft. It has that chew you want in a bagel, and the outer skin has that crisp crust and has a good tear,” said Chloe, a sophomore in ABF. With 67.7 percent of BCA students saying that a crispy crust and chewy interior were important bagel qualities for them, this certainly sounds like a plus!

Chloe also said that “their bagels are the exact size you want a bagel to be. Not too small, not too big, just perfect.” 

When asked about their best items, reviewers often recommend their veggie cream cheese and various breakfast sandwiches. When looking for a nostalgic treat, Chloe recommends a blueberry bagel with strawberry cream cheese. “It tastes like my childhood, and even though it sounds like kind of a weird combo, trust me, it’s fantastic.”

Bergen Boulevard Bagels, Palisades Park

On the other side of Bergen County, Bergen Boulevard Bagels is known for serving up some of the fluffiest hand-rolled bagels. “They can barely fit in my toaster, I love it!” said one reviewer. Locals definitely covet this spot, as seen by alleged “lines out the door.” 

From NJ classics like a Taylor Ham Egg and Cheese, to tuna, chicken, whitefish, and egg salad that one BCA student described as “actually so good”, Bergen Boulevard Bagels has been dubbed a must-try if you’re ever in the area. Remember to get there early, because parking is limited, and bring cash!

Bagel Nosh, Waldwick

A finalist in nj.com’s “Best Bagel” contest, Waldwick’s Bagel Nosh is a local staple, proudly serving the community. With both a brick-and-mortar location on East Prospect Street and an extensive catering menu, BCA students say that Bagel Nosh never disappoints. From hot comlette platters to salads to bialys, Bagel Nosh opens at 5:30 every morning, with hand-rolled and freshly boiled bagels. 

ATCS sophomore Sarah Specht especially recommends their cinnamon raisin bagels with butter, and many other reviews suggest their delicacy cream cheeses,  a favorite topping for almost 60% of BCA students. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make this a perfect spot for anyone who wants their breakfast with a side of small-town charm. 

Teaneck Road Hot Bagels, Teaneck

A kosher bagel shop and deli, Teaneck Road Hot Bagels have been family-owned and operated for over 30 years. Consistently ranked as one of the best bagel shops in the state and even the nation, Hot Bagels keeps it simple; no hot sandwiches or pastries, just great bagels, and shmears. This take-out-only shop opens bright and early at 5:00 AM and makes all of its bagels fresh and in-house. Patrons especially recommend their Lox spread and veggie cream cheese. Keep in mind that TRHB is take-out only, and lines can be long, especially on weekends, however, they tend to move quickly.