When it comes to East Coast versus West Coast, we’re obviously strong believers that West Coast is the best coast. However, we have to admit the East Coast has a leg up on some things, like bagels. After all, New York-style bagels are iconic for a reason. Lucky for us in the Golden State, we don’t have to travel across the country to get our hands on bagels like these. Boichik Bagels is a bagel shop in NorCal that does it right – they’ve even been named the best bagels by the New York Times! What more proof do you need?
According to the New York Times, the best bagels in the nation are in California...not New York. Specifically, you'll find the best bagels at Boichik Bagels in Berkeley. If you've tried them, you probably agree!
Boichik Bagels proudly serves legit New York-style bagels out of a humble bakeshop in Berkeley. The owner, Emily Winston, grew up in New Jersey and, like many New Yorkers, developed a strong love for H&H Bagels. After moving here to California, Emily made it her goal to create a bagel as good as an H&H bagel.
After five years of trial and error, Emily finally developed a recipe for the best bagels on the West Coast. Boichik Bagels opened in November 2019 and people have been lining up around the block to get a taste ever since!
Inside the shop, you'll be greeted by the smell of fresh-baked delights and the sight of all types of bagel options. Boichik Bagels likes to stick to the classics, with flavors including Salt, Sesame, Poppy, Onion, Egg, and Plain.
The in-store menu even contains instructions on how to order a bagel sandwich like a proper New Yorker. You'll first pick your bagel and whether or not you'd like it toasted before rattling off your preferred spreads, salads, fish, veggies, and other toppings.
Alternatively, you can keep it simple by ordering The Classic (chive cream cheese, nova lox, tomato, red onion, capers) or The Mensch (whitefish salad, cucumber, and tomato.) You can also order bagels to-to for $3 each (every 12th bagel is free.)
Don't be scared away by the line when visiting Boichik Bagels. These authentic NY bagels are worth the wait! Learn more about this Berkeley bagel shop with the best bagels on the West Coast by visiting their website.
