Does London Have Good Bagels?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re a bagel lover, you may be wondering if London has good bagels. The answer is a resounding yes! While New York City may be the bagel capital of the world, London has its fair share of delicious bagel shops.

The History of London’s Bagel Scene

London’s bagel scene is heavily influenced by Jewish immigrants who arrived in the city at the turn of the 20th century. Many of these immigrants settled in East London, which became known as the center of London’s Jewish community.

In East London, you can find some of the best bagel shops in the city. These shops have been around for decades and have become institutions in their own right.

Brick Lane Beigel Bake

One such institution is Brick Lane Beigel Bake. This shop has been serving up fresh, hot bagels since 1977 and is open 24/7. The shop is known for its salt beef bagels, which are a must-try for any first-time visitor.

Brick Lane Beigel Bake also offers a variety of other fillings, including smoked salmon and cream cheese, egg and bacon, and even Nutella.

Beigel Shop

Another popular spot for bagels in East London is Beigel Shop. This shop has been around since 1855 and offers both sweet and savory options. Their salt beef bagels are also a customer favorite.

Beigel Shop is open 24/7, making it a perfect spot for a late-night snack or early morning breakfast.

Other Options

While East London may be the center of London’s bagel scene, there are other options throughout the city. Monty’s Deli serves up traditional Jewish-style salt beef sandwiches on rye bread or a bagel with mustard or Russian dressing.

You can also find bagels at several chain coffee shops, such as Starbucks and Pret a Manger. While these options may not be as authentic as the ones found in East London, they’re still tasty.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, London does have good bagels, especially in East London. Brick Lane Beigel Bake and Beigel Shop are two must-visit spots for anyone looking to try authentic Jewish-style bagels.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, make sure to add a bagel from one of these shops to your London food bucket list.