
January 15 might officially be National Bagel Day, but in New Jersey—especially Monmouth County—every day feels like a celebration of the bagel!
Our love affair with the bagel is unmatched, and the numbers prove it. In 2020, over 202 million Americans enjoyed bagels, with consumption expected to grow yearly. About 10 million bagels are devoured daily across the U.S.! The most popular bagel orders nationwide include everything from cinnamon raisin to asiago to the colorful rainbow bagel. But let’s be honest—Monmouth County has its bagel traditions, and we know what we like.
Sure, a bagel isn’t exactly a healthy food (low fiber, high carbs, and sodium), but who’s counting calories when you’re enjoying a perfectly chewy everything bagel with cream cheese? If swapping your regular bagel for a mini one could help you lose 24 pounds in a year, then we say, “Pass the extra schmear!”
While New York likes to claim the title of bagel capital, we’re here to declare that Monmouth County bagels are second to none proudly. Our local bagel makers are skilled and bold in their claims, with signs boasting “the world’s finest bagels” and “America’s best hand-rolled bagels since 1988.” And you know what? We believe them.
We’ve scoured Monmouth County for the best bagel, trying every flavor and spread imaginable (including a maple whiskey cream cheese we’ll never forget). After countless taste tests, we’ve narrowed it down to the top seven bagel spots in the area. These bagel shops stand out for their perfectly baked bagels, delicious spreads, and unbeatable flavors.
Stay tuned as we reveal our picks for the best bagels in Monmouth County. From classic everything bagels to creative specialty flavors, you’re in for a treat. And don’t forget—no bagel is complete without a generous schmear!
Hole In One Bagel Deli

Located at 3701 NJ-33 in Neptune Township, NJ, is a golf-themed bagel shop that offers a delightful experience for both bagel enthusiasts and casual diners. Renowned for their freshly baked, fluffy bagels, they stand out in the crowded Shore bagel scene. Their menu features a variety of bagel flavors, catering to diverse taste preferences. Beyond breakfast, the deli offers a selection of lunch options, with their tuna salad sandwich being a customer favorite. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff contribute to a welcoming environment, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors. Whether grabbing a quick bite before hitting the golf course or looking for a comfortable place to enjoy a meal, Hole In One Bagel Deli provides a satisfying and memorable dining experience in Neptune Township, NJ.
For more information, you can visit their official website or check out their Instagram page.
Planet Bagel

Located at 214 Broad Street in Keyport, NJ, Planet Bagel is a must-visit spot for bagel enthusiasts. Open daily from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM, this cozy café offers a wide selection of freshly baked bagels, with their extra-yellow, extra-rich egg bagels being a standout favorite. Beyond bagels, the menu includes specialty cream cheeses, breakfast sandwiches, wraps, and salads, catering to various tastes. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. For added convenience, Planet Bagel provides takeout and delivery options through DoorDash. Whether starting your day or grabbing a quick lunch, Planet Bagel delivers quality and flavor in every bite.
For more information, you can visit their official website or check out their Instagram page.
Bagel International

At 48 Main Street in Bradley Beach, NJ, Bagel International & Deli is a bustling, cash-only eatery renowned for its freshly baked, generously sized bagels. Open daily from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM, this popular spot serves breakfast all day, offering a variety of bagels, breakfast sandwiches, wraps, and deli sandwiches. Despite its compact and lively atmosphere, the friendly staff ensures efficient service, making it a favorite among locals and beachgoers. Whether craving a classic everything bagel with scallion cream cheese or a hearty breakfast sandwich, Bagel International & Deli delivers quality and flavor in every bite.
For more information, you can visit their official website or check out their Facebook page.
Gem’s House of Bagels

Located at 387 Highway 36 in Port Monmouth, NJ, Gem’s House of Bagels is a family-owned establishment renowned for its freshly baked bagels and hearty breakfast sandwiches. A standout favorite is their pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwich on an everything bagel, featuring thick slices of pork roll and a bright yellow, freshly cooked egg. The menu also boasts specialty items like “The Rocket,” which combines pork roll, bacon, egg, cheese, and a hash brown. With eight locations across New Jersey, Gem’s House of Bagels has become a staple for both locals and visitors seeking quality bagels and friendly service.
For more information, you can visit their official website or check out their Instagram page.
Bagel Boyz

Bagel Boyz, located at 694 Holmdel Road in Hazlet, NJ, is a bustling bagel shop renowned for its extensive selection of freshly baked, generously sized bagels and creative spreads. With 15 varieties of bagels and 13 types of spreads, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
A standout item is their classic lox bagel, priced at $10.99. While it may be on the higher end, the quality and taste make it a worthwhile indulgence. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Lox spread on a bagel is available for $4.99, offering a similar flavor profile at a lower cost.
The Everything bagel at Bagel Boyz is particularly noteworthy, often highlighted as one of the best in the area. Its perfect balance of flavors and texture makes it a customer favorite.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic bagel with cream cheese or a hearty sandwich, Bagel Boyz in Hazlet offers a diverse menu that caters to all bagel enthusiasts.
For more information, you can visit their official website or check out their Instagram page.
Bagel Hut

Bagel Hut, located at 1208 NJ-34 in Matawan, NJ, is a lively establishment renowned for its handcrafted bagels and diverse menu. With 19 varieties of bagels and 15 types of spreads, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Their Black Russian bagel is a standout item, an extra-dark pumpernickel variety that’s a relative rarity in New Jersey. The cinnamon raisin bagel, loaded with cream cheese, is a customer favorite. The Everything bagel is soft and doughy, and the marble bagel, a rye/pumpernickel mix, is particularly noteworthy.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic bagel with cream cheese or a hearty sandwich, Bagel Hut in Matawan offers a diverse menu that caters to all bagel enthusiasts.
For more information, you can visit their official website or check out their Instagram page.
Sheepshead Baygels

Located at 2095 NJ-35 in Holmdel, Sheepshead Baygels offers a variety of bagels with a distinctive thin yet firm outer shell. Their French toast bagels capture the essence of the classic dish, making them a must-try. The cinnamon raisin bagel, generously loaded with cream cheese, is also a customer favorite. The shop provides a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a freshly made bagel. Operating hours are daily from 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
For more information, you can visit their official website or check out their Instagram page.
Bagel Nook

At 51 Village Center Drive in Freehold, Bagel Nook is renowned for its inventive bagel creations. Their menu features unique flavors like Oreo, Cocoa Puff, Dorito, and Flaming Hot Cheeto bagels, which can be topped with options such as birthday cake, Oreo, maple bacon, vanilla milkshake, or ghost pepper cream cheese. In 2022, their Takis bagel gained significant attention for its spicy profile. Despite the unconventional flavors, Bagel Nook maintains high-quality standards, ensuring each bagel is fresh and flavorful.
For more information, you can visit their official website or check out their Instagram page.
Monmouth County’s bagel scene is a delightful mix of classic favorites and inventive creations. Whether you’re craving a traditional bagel or something a bit more adventurous, these local spots have you covered. So, grab your coffee, bring your appetite, and embark on a bagel adventure right here in Monmouth County. Your taste buds will thank you! Remember bagels in New Jersey are a really REALLY big deal. They are basically sacred. So get out there and let me know who has your favorite!