The Absolute Best Bagels in Brookline [Updated 2025]

I have sampled and reviewed a total of 14 bagel establishments in this charming town, and let me tell you, the competition is fierce. From traditional New York-style bagels to unique and innovative flavors, Brookline has it all.

In this article, I will share with you my top picks, taking into consideration factors such as freshness, texture, flavor, and overall experience. Whether you're a local looking to spice up your breakfast routine or a visitor eager to try the best bagels in town, this guide is for you.

So grab a cup of coffee and get ready to embark on a mouthwatering bagel adventure through the streets of Brookline!

Zaftigs Delicatessen

Highlights
Pleasant servers
Huge sandwiches
Perfect fries
Flavorful sandwiches
Delicious matzo ball soup

Let me dive right in and say that Zaftigs Delicatessen is a hidden gem in Brookline, where bagel lovers like myself can indulge in a delightful culinary experience. As soon as I walked through the doors, I was greeted by the warm smiles of the pleasant servers who immediately made me feel like part of their family.

Now, let's talk about the bagels. Oh my, these bagels are not your average morning pick-me-up! They are simply huge. Each bite is a blissful journey of chewy goodness, perfectly toasted on the outside and soft on the inside. Simply heavenly.

But the greatness doesn't stop with the bagels alone. Zaftigs Delicatessen takes their sandwiches to a whole new level. Prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors as you sink your teeth into their flavorful sandwiches. From classic combinations to unique creations, each sandwich is a masterpiece in its own right. And don't even get me started on their perfect fries – crispy, golden bites of pure bliss.

To top it off, the delicious matzo ball soup served at Zaftigs Delicatessen is something dreams are made of. The chicken broth is rich and comforting, and the matzo balls are tender and melt in your mouth. It's the perfect complement to any meal.

When you're on the hunt for the best bagels in Brookline, Zaftigs Delicatessen is a must-visit. With their friendly service, huge sandwiches, perfect fries, flavorful sandwiches, and delicious matzo ball soup, you'll leave with a happy belly and a desire to return for more.

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Kupel's Bakery

Highlights
Good bread quality
Tasty black and white cookies
Fresh pastries and bagels
Unique flavor combinations
Great local following

Let's talk about the highlights that stood out during my visit. First and foremost, the bread quality at Kupel's Bakery was exceptional. When biting into their bagels, I was met with a delightful combination of a soft and chewy interior, perfectly complemented by a slightly crispy crust. It was evident that they take great care in their baking process, resulting in bagels that are simply irresistible.

Aside from their bagels, I must mention their tasty black and white cookies. These sweet treats were a delightful surprise, with a perfect balance of rich chocolate and vanilla flavors that melt in your mouth. It's no wonder they are a customer favorite!

Although primarily known for their bagels, Kupel's Bakery also offers an array of fresh pastries that are hard to resist. From flaky croissants to delectable muffins, each bite was a testament to their dedication to quality baking.

One thing that sets Kupel's Bakery apart from other bagel shops in Brookline is their unique flavor combinations. They offer a wide range of options, both savory and sweet, that cater to different tastes. Whether you're craving a classic everything bagel or looking to explore daring flavor combinations like blueberry and feta, Kupel's Bakery has got you covered.

Lastly, it's worth noting the great local following that Kupel's Bakery has. During my visit, the bustling atmosphere and the steady stream of customers spoke to the bakery's popularity among the Brookline community.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best bagels in Brookline, you won't want to miss out on the delights that Kupel's Bakery has to offer. With their excellent bread quality, tasty black and white cookies, fresh pastries, unique flavor combinations, and loyal local following, it's no surprise that Kupel's Bakery stands out as a must-visit spot for bagel enthusiasts.

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Bruegger's Bagels

Highlights
In-between meals
Juicy New York bagels
Special Jalapeño Cheddar bread
Delicious siracha honey bagel
Great coffee

Let me start by saying that Bruegger's Bagels is the ideal spot for those in-between meals when you're craving something satisfying and delicious. As I entered the cozy shop, the aroma of freshly baked bagels overwhelmed my senses, instantly making me feel at home.

Bruegger's Bagels has truly mastered the art of crafting juicy New York style bagels. Each bite had a perfect balance of chewiness and softness that transported me to the bustling streets of the Big Apple.

One standout option was the Special Jalapeño Cheddar bagel. Its combination of spicy jalapeños and savory cheddar was a flavor explosion in my mouth. Trust me when I say it's not for the faint of heart, but if you're a fan of bold and daring flavors, this bagel is a must-try.

For those looking for a unique twist, the siracha honey bagel was a revelation. The subtle sweetness of the honey paired with a hint of tangy spiciness from the siracha was a match made in bagel heaven. It's a delightful combination that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

Now, let's talk about the coffee. Bruegger's Bagels takes as much pride in their coffee as they do in their bagels. With each sip, I could taste the robust flavors and appreciate the smoothness. It was the perfect companion to bring out the flavors of the bagels.

Overall, my experience at Bruegger's Bagels in Brookline was exceptional. With their bold and creative flavors, they have undoubtedly earned their place among the best bagel shops in town. So, if you find yourself in Brookline, make sure to stop by and indulge in their delightful creations.

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The Bagel Table

Highlights
Fresh bagels
Great coffee
Friendly service
Variety of beverages
Accommodating staff

Let me start by saying that The Bagel Table truly lives up to its name, offering a delightful array of fresh bagels that are sure to satisfy any bagel lover's cravings. As soon as I stepped through the doors, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bagels wafting through the air, instantly enticing my taste buds.

The menu at The Bagel Table boasts an impressive variety of flavors, from classic favorites like plain and everything, to unique and savory options like sesame and asiago. Each bagel was freshly baked, boasting a perfectly chewy texture and a golden crust that added an inviting crunch with every bite.

To complement their phenomenal bagels, The Bagel Table serves a great coffee that is rich and flavorful, providing the perfect accompaniment to start your day on a high note. They also offer a variety of other beverages, ensuring there is a refreshing option for everyone.

The experience at The Bagel Table is made even more enjoyable by the friendly service provided by their accommodating staff. They are always ready to answer any questions and make recommendations based on individual preferences.

Overall, my visit to The Bagel Table in Brookline was a remarkable one. With their fresh bagels, great coffee, and friendly service, it's no surprise that they are rapidly becoming a beloved choice among bagel enthusiasts in the area. Whether you're a local or just passing through, The Bagel Table is definitely a spot worth checking out for a delightful bagel experience like no other.

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Pavement Coffeehouse - BU

Highlights
Delicious, fresh bagels
Friendly service
Locally sourced hot apple cider
Generous cream cheese
Great coffee

First and foremost, the bagels at Pavement Coffeehouse - BU are a taste sensation. Each bite was a burst of flavor and pure delight. These delicious, fresh bagels were truly a treat for my taste buds. Whether you prefer a classic plain bagel or something more adventurous like a savory everything bagel, Pavement Coffeehouse - BU has got you covered.

But the experience doesn't end with just the bagels. The friendly service at Pavement Coffeehouse - BU was a breath of fresh air. The staff was warm, welcoming, and eager to assist me in choosing the perfect bagel for my morning cravings.

And let's not forget about the extras. Alongside my bagel, I decided to indulge in a cup of their locally sourced hot apple cider. The warm and comforting blend of spices was the perfect companion to my beloved bagel.

Furthermore, the amount of cream cheese they generously spread on top of my bagel was exceptional. Each bite was perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of creaminess.

To complete my bagel experience, I paired it with a cup of their great coffee. The aroma itself was enough to make my mouth water, and the taste did not disappoint. It was rich, smooth, and the perfect accompaniment to my morning bagel adventure.

All in all, my visit to Pavement Coffeehouse - BU was a delightful experience. From the delicious, fresh bagels to the friendly service and locally sourced apple cider, it's clear that Pavement Coffeehouse - BU has earned its place on the list of the best bagels in Brookline.

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Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Beacon St

Highlights
Lovely Saturday morning atmosphere
Delicious pistachio latte
Scrumptious avocado toast

Let me start by saying that Tatte Bakery & Cafe on Beacon St in Brookline is a delightful spot for a Saturday morning bagel adventure. As I walked through the door, I immediately felt at home in the warm and inviting atmosphere. The aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air, making my taste buds tingle with anticipation.

Before indulging in the bagels, I couldn't resist ordering a pistachio latte. Let me tell you, it was a downright flavorful masterpiece. The rich and creamy latte had just the right amount of nuttiness, making it the perfect accompaniment to any bagel.

Now, let's talk about the bagels. Tatte Bakery & Cafe certainly knows how to make a mouthwatering bagel. The avocado toast topped with a perfectly ripe avocado and sprinkled with a hint of sea salt was simply scrumptious. The bagel itself was pillowy soft on the inside and had a nice outer crust, adding a satisfying chew to each bite.

As I sat there enjoying my bagel, I couldn't help but feel that Tatte Bakery & Cafe had mastered the art of balance. From the inviting atmosphere to the delicious pistachio latte and oh-so-satisfying bagels, every aspect of the experience was carefully curated.

If you're on the hunt for the best bagels in Brookline, make sure to add Tatte Bakery & Cafe on Beacon St to your list. You won't be disappointed!

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Martin's Coffee Shop

Highlights
Amazing atmosphere
Super nice service
Delicious food
Generous portions
Extensive menu

With its amazing atmosphere, Martin's Coffee Shop instantly captivates you as soon as you walk through the door. The cozy interior, complete with rustic wooden furniture and warm lighting, creates a welcoming environment that is perfect for enjoying a delightful breakfast.

One thing that truly stood out during my visit was the super nice service. The staff at Martin's Coffee Shop are incredibly friendly and attentive. From the moment I entered, I was greeted with a warm smile and promptly seated. The waitstaff went above and beyond to make sure I had everything I needed, providing recommendations and engaging in friendly banter.

Now, let's talk about the delicious food. Martin's Coffee Shop has an extensive menu that caters to everyone's preferences. When it comes to bagels, they certainly deliver. Each bite was a delightful combination of a perfectly chewy exterior and a fluffy, flavorful interior. The selection of toppings and spreads was impressive, allowing me to personalize my bagel to my liking. I also appreciated the generous portions, as I left feeling completely satisfied.

In conclusion, Martin's Coffee Shop is a must-visit for bagel enthusiasts in Brookline. The combination of an amazing atmosphere, super nice service, and delicious food makes it a top contender among the best bagel places in town. Make sure to check it out and indulge in their fantastic bagels – you won't be disappointed!

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Dunkin'

Highlights
Great service
Welcoming staff
Speedy service
Clean store
Accurate orders

Let me begin by highlighting the great service at Dunkin'. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly and welcoming staff who were eager to take my order. They were knowledgeable about their bagel offerings and were happy to recommend their favorites.

One thing that stood out to me was the speedy service. Despite the busy morning rush, my bagel was prepared and handed to me in no time. This is perfect for those on-the-go bagel enthusiasts.

The store itself was clean and well-maintained, which made for a pleasant atmosphere. I appreciated the attention to detail in maintaining a clean store.

What impressed me the most was the accuracy of my order. The staff got my bagel exactly how I wanted it, without any mistakes. This attention to detail ensured that my bagel experience was top-notch.

In conclusion, Dunkin' in Brookline not only delivers a delicious bagel experience but also excels in providing outstanding customer service. The combination of great service, a welcoming staff, speedy service, a clean store, and accurate orders makes Dunkin' a notable contender in the search for the best bagels in Brookline. Whether you're craving a classic bagel or looking to try something new, Dunkin' is definitely worth a visit.

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Union Square Donuts

Highlights
Variety of doughnuts
Delicious every time
Changing flavors
Amazing donuts
Friendly staff

Located in the heart of Brookline, Union Square Donuts offers a variety of mouthwatering doughnuts that are delicious every time. As I walked into the cozy shop, the aroma of freshly baked treats immediately grabbed my attention.

What makes Union Square Donuts truly standout is their ever-changing flavors. Each visit guarantees a surprise as they continually introduce new and exciting options to their menu. From classic flavors like glazed and chocolate to unique creations such as maple bacon and matcha, they have mastered the art of crafting amazing donuts.

The friendly staff at Union Square Donuts adds to the delightful experience. Their warm smiles and helpful suggestions create a welcoming atmosphere where you can leisurely browse the enticing array of treats. They are always happy to answer any questions and provide recommendations based on your preferences.

Whether you are a bagel lover or simply a connoisseur of delectable pastries, Union Square Donuts is a must-visit in Brookline. It is a place where you can indulge in a delectable treat while enjoying the vibrant surroundings. So, the next time you are in Brookline, make sure to swing by Union Square Donuts and treat yourself to one of their irresistible doughnuts. You won't be disappointed!

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Bagel Rising

As soon as I stepped into Bagel Rising in Brookline, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of freshly baked bagels instantly tantalized my senses, enticing me to explore their selection. The variety at Bagel Rising is simply mind-blowing. From classic flavors like plain and sesame to more adventurous options like jalapeño cheddar and everything bagels, this place has it all. Each bite was a delightful symphony of texture and flavor, with a perfectly crisp exterior and a soft, chewy center. The staff was friendly and quick to recommend their personal favorites. If you're on the hunt for the best bagels in Brookline, make sure to stop by Bagel Rising—they truly rise above the rest!

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Brothers & Sisters Co.

Highlights
Lovely cafe
Great drinks
Kind staff
Internet access
Beautiful decor

Brothers & Sisters Co. in Brookline is a lovely cafe that I stumbled upon during my quest for the best bagels in town. As soon as I stepped foot inside, I was captivated by the beautiful decor that adorned the walls. The cozy and inviting atmosphere instantly put me at ease, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a bagel and a cup of coffee.

Speaking of drinks, Brothers & Sisters Co. doesn't disappoint. Their menu boasts a wide variety of options, from classic coffees to specialty beverages. I highly recommend trying their signature blend – a flavorful concoction that will surely awaken your taste buds.

What truly sets this place apart is the kind staff. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. They were more than happy to answer my questions and make recommendations, ensuring that my bagel experience was nothing short of exceptional.

In addition, the accessibility to internet made it a great place to catch up on work or simply browse the web while savoring my bagel. It was refreshing to find a cozy cafe that understands the needs of its patrons.

Overall, Brothers & Sisters Co. is a hidden gem in Brookline that should not be missed by bagel enthusiasts. With their lovely cafe ambiance, great drinks, kind staff, and internet access, it's evident that they have carefully crafted an experience designed to satisfy their customers. So, if you find yourself in Brookline, make sure to stop by Brothers & Sisters Co. for a bagel experience that will leave you craving more.

Einstein Bros. Bagels

Highlights
Hidden gem in the GRS building
Fast and friendly staff
Delicious and filling bagels

First off, let me say that this place is a hidden gem tucked away in the GRS building. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the fast and friendly staff, which instantly made me feel welcome.

Now, let's get to the most important part - the bagels. Oh boy, were they a treat! Each bite was a burst of delicious flavors that left me wanting more. The bagels were fresh, perfectly toasted, and had that chewy texture that a bagel lover like myself craves.

I have to mention the variety of options they offer, from the classic plain to unique and inventive flavors. Whether you're in the mood for a savory or sweet bagel, they have you covered. And let's not forget about the fillings. The cream cheese spreads were smooth, creamy, and paired perfectly with the bagels.

On top of the amazing bagels, Einstein Bros. Bagels also offers a cozy atmosphere where you can sit back and enjoy your morning treat. With free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating, it's an ideal spot to start your day.

Overall, my experience at Einstein Bros. Bagels in Brookline was a delightful one. The combination of friendly service, mouthwatering bagels, and a comfortable atmosphere makes this place a top contender for the best bagels in Brookline. If you haven't tried it yet, I strongly recommend paying them a visit. Your taste buds will thank you!

Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Coolidge Corner

Highlights
Comfy atmosphere
Tasty bakery items
Top tier breakfast/lunch options
Unique flavors in drinks and food
Nice environment for working

Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Coolidge Corner is a cozy and inviting spot that immediately caught my attention with its comfy atmosphere. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of their tasty bakery items.

In terms of bagels, Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Coolidge Corner truly stands out from the rest. Their bagels are in a league of their own, offering a variety of unique flavors that you won't find elsewhere in Brookline. From the classic plain to the inventive everything topped with za'atar seasoning, their selection caters to all bagel aficionados.

But Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Coolidge Corner is more than just bagels. Their menu boasts top tier breakfast and lunch options, leaving you spoilt for choice. I indulged in their smoked salmon bagel sandwich and was blown away by the perfect balance of flavors. It's a dish that is guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

What sets this place apart is their attention to detail. Every drink and dish is crafted with precision and showcases unique flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether it's their lavender latte or their shakshuka, each item on the menu is a work of art.

Not only is Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Coolidge Corner a haven for food enthusiasts, but it also provides a nice environment for working. With ample seating, free Wi-Fi, and an ambiance that sparks creativity, it's the perfect place to get work done while enjoying a delicious bagel.

In conclusion, Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Coolidge Corner is a must-visit for bagel lovers in Brookline. Prepare to be impressed by their delectable bagels, flavorful menu, and warm atmosphere. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

Pavement Coffeehouse - Allston

Highlights
Convenient locations
Maple Iced Latte
The Fix sandwich
Quick and friendly service
Local favorite

Let me start by saying that Pavement Coffeehouse - Allston has certainly earned its place as a local favorite in Brookline. This cozy café not only serves up a variety of delectable bagels, but also offers a warm and inviting atmosphere.

One of the things that sets Pavement Coffeehouse - Allston apart is its convenient location. Whether you're a resident or just passing through, this café is easily accessible, making it a perfect spot to grab a quick breakfast or a midday pick-me-up.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the bagels. I highly recommend indulging in their Maple Iced Latte. This sweet and flavorful drink perfectly complements their freshly baked bagels. Speaking of bagels, one of my favorites is their signature menu item, The Fix sandwich. Packed with smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and red onions on a perfectly toasted bagel, this sandwich is a true delight for bagel enthusiasts.

Not only are the bagels at Pavement Coffeehouse - Allston delicious, but the quick and friendly service provided by the staff adds to the overall experience. From the moment you walk in, you are greeted with a smile, making your dining experience all the more enjoyable.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best bagels in Brookline, Pavement Coffeehouse - Allston is a must-visit destination. With its convenient location, delightful beverages, scrumptious bagels, and welcoming atmosphere, this café exemplifies the essence of a top-notch bagel establishment.