The best bagels in Canada are scattered all over the country, and while many might think Montreal is the best place to find them because of the famous “Montreal-style bagels,” many other cities in Canada have delicious bagels too. We asked our followers where their favourite bagel spots are in Canada, and they had much to share.
Montreal-style bagels are the most famous kind in Canada and compete with the New York-style bagel. And while you could call us biased, the Canadian option is just way better! Montreal-style bagels are boiled in water with honey, baked in a wood-fired oven, and usually come in smaller sizes with larger holes in the middle. On the other hand, the New York-style bagels are boiled in water with malt barley, baked in a conventional oven and taste saltier.
Overall, bagels have simple ingredients like flour, yeast, salt, and sweetening. The bagels are usually boiled and then baked. They are round with a hole in the middle filled with things like cream cheese, salmon and so much more. Honestly, the options are limitless! When made right, they are so delicious you can’t get enough of them.
Read on for the eight best bagel spots in Canada according to locals nationwide! Please note that these bagel spots are not ranked in any particular order.
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St. Viateur
St. Viateur Bagels in Montreal
The best and most recommended bagel spot in Canada is St. Viateur Bagels in Montreal. They’ve been making bagels since 1957 and have mastered the art of bagels. A follower said the bagels are “The best anywhere. I have them shipped to Chicago… yum yum.” So, if you’re ever in Montreal, this bagel spot has to be at the top of your list.
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Kettlemans Bagel
Kettlemans Bagel
This bagel spot serves up Montreal-style bagels all over Canada. They opened their first location in Ottawa in 1993 and since have expanded Kettlemans Bagel. There are now eight locations, and they are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So, make sure to check them out, and you can guarantee freshly-made bagels every time you order!
Rosemary Rocksalt
Rosemary Rocksalt
If you’re out West and looking to indulge in bagels, then Rosemary Rocksalt is a great place to visit. This bagel spot makes “real” Montreal-style ring-shaped bagels. They are boiled in honey water and baked in a stone-hearth, open-flame oven to make them crisp on the outside. The bagels are never frozen and are always enjoyed fresh. Pair it with a classic cream cheese or try one of their specialties — either way, you won’t be disappointed.
Gryfe’s
Gryfe’s
Gryfe’s is one of Toronto’s oldest bakeries and they’ve been making bagels since 1915. They are known for their bagels, pastries and pizza bagels. They don’t identify as a Montreal or New York-style bagel but rather a “Gryfe’s style bagel.” The bagels are light and fluffy and filled with so much flavour. This bagel spot is also one of Eden Grinshpan, host of Top Chef Canada, favourite bagel spot in Canada! She’s been going there since she was younger and advises you “get a lot” when you visit because they’re good!
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Bagel Maguire café
This Quebec City cafe is a hidden gem and they make the bagels in-house with a wood-fire oven on site. Bagel Maguire cafe‘s menu is filled with Montreal-style bagel dishes, from eggs to meat sandwiches and more, there is a lot to explore.
St. Urbain Bagel
St. Urbain Bagel
Tucked away in the famous St.Lawrence Market in Toronto, St. Urbain Bagel serves bagels that are affordable and delicious. They also have a viral “Craigel,” which is a bagel and croissant mashup, and while it looks like a croissant, it tastes just like a bagel. If you haven’t tried it, it’s worth a visit! We loved it because not only is it soft but has the flavours we love in a bagel.
Mount Royal Bagel
In Victoria, BC, Mount Royal Bagels are freshly made and loaded with specialty cream cheeses that have been loved since 1992. A local said, “The best bagels I’ve ever had were at Mount Royal Bagels in Victoria.” So, if you’re in Victoria and looking to indulge in a bagel, then make sure to check out Mount Royal Bagel.
Bobino Bagel
Bobino Bagels
Located in Gatineau, Bobino Bagels brings handmade Montreal-style bagels to the city. The bright-coloured branding and delicious beverage menu are added reasons to visit this restaurant. Also, the cream cheese options are so creative, from chocolate to cowboy, dill pickle, roasted jalapenos, and more, there is so much to explore and try!