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    Chicago Bagel Authority

    3.8 (863 reviews)
    Closed 7:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Order Chicago Bagel Authority Takeout or Delivery

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    CHICAGO BAGEL AUTHORITY ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Dogs allowed
    Good for groups

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    Belmont
    Jason S.

    It had been a minute since I tried a new Chicago bagel spot, and I was seriously craving one--so I decided to check another place off my list. Gotta preface this by saying I'm from Jersey, so my bagel standards are high. I ordered The Belmont and a salmon & lox cream cheese bagel. The bagels themselves were just okay--thin and nothing particularly standout--but the fillings were really solid. The Belmont had a great mix of meats, and I actually like cream cheese on a breakfast sandwich--it works surprisingly well. The lox and salmon bagel was great too; the fish was mixed into the cream cheese like a spread, and at only $8, it was a steal. Overall, this was probably one of the better bagel breakfast sandwiches I've had in Chicago so far. If you're not super picky about your bagels like I am, you'll probably love it. I'd definitely get bagels from Chicago bagel authority again!

    Mariah S.

    If you're looking for steamed bagels, look no further! Bagel Authority is a MUST try! With so many options, there is truly something for everyone. Despite not having much sitting room, the service was great & they even had the patio open!

    Ashley C.

    One thing I loooove is a good Ritz bagel from CBA. Ordered ahead, but ate there. Something about that steamed bagel, with turkey, bacon and that garlic mayo. Look, it's my go-to. Service is always efficient(keep in mind it can get packed there); music is always playing and just a great spot for a bite to eat.

    Menu
    Michael G.

    What great spot for all day breakfast. The ambiance is cheerful. People that work behind the counters look happy. Yelper from CA give this place high five

    Weir's the Beef Sideways
    Phillip B.

    CBA is a very busy location which usually means the food is good. The bagels were delicious. I would recommend ordering in advance or if you're planning to dine in be patient as it may take a little time due to the sheer volume of orders. I tried to vegan bagels. They have several vegan options. They were filling and flavorful my fav was weirs the beef. My only complaint or observation is, for a bagel location that didn't have a Lox bagel which I found weird but they have lox cream cheese. Overall very good experience

    Iced coffee
    Alexandra A.

    I'm a sucker for bagels and this place hit the spot! This is a small bagel spot with lots of varieties. You can get something as simple as a bagel with cream cheese or you can go all out and get a sandwich of your choice. They also regular coffee. I tried the Wrigley Fielder which comes with cream cheese and a ton of veggies! This is an all veggie option however there are also sandwiches for meat eaters - breakfast and lunch sandwiches. I also got an iced coffee - nothing fancy here, simple and gets the caffeine job done. This was reallllllllll good. I'm picky with bagels and loooove me a specialty bagel spot! The service was quick especially considering how crazy packed this was on an early Sunday afternoon. There is limited indoor and outdoor seating so keep that in mind. There is also 1 bathroom so I recommend utilizing one before heading here lol. Tip - Lincoln park has free parking on Sundays, it does get busy after 10am so if possible try to come before the rush.

    I'm sniveling
    Bill U.

    I ordered the the Breakfast bagel and came across disappointed. The meal was super salty and the bagel was not toasted. Not having a lot of luck so far on this trip. Yes, I'm sniveling.

    Bagel
    Madison C.

    CBA offers steamed bagels which I've never tried before. Steaming the bagels makes for a softer bite so if thats what your going for I think you'd enjoy CBA bagels. For my personal preferenceI like a toasted bagel better to get a little crunch. They have a lot of options to choose from which is a plus. Service was slow out friend who ordered 3rd our of our group of 6 received her bagels last and it took a long time to get any of them out to us. We enjoyed sitting on their shaded back patio. They do have sitting inside as well.

    Inside
    Matthew A.

    With such an extensive menu I was worried they might not be able to deliver but CBA does not miss! Our group devoured our perfectly crafted bagel sandwiches. Shop can get busy but you can order ahead to save time. A few seats indoors and great location in Lincoln Park. I recommend the western. Cool thing is you can pretty much customize any bagel to however you like. Opt for an egg everything bagel if you want a truly stellar experience.

    Inside
    Diana G.

    I was in the area and searched for 'lunch nearby'. Stopped in for lunch to go. I ordered the Messy Katie. It was delicious! I think I will drive in from the suburbs to bring my family.

    The Belmont
    Ariana G.

    I had high hopes but it was just ok. Or maybe it was just the sandwich I ordered. I ordered the Belmont for pickup fyi. First, the bagel is pretty heavy but I was disappointed that it was kind of soggy when I opened it. It was probably the heat from the sandwich causing the cream cheese to become all mushy and runny (which is what probably turned me off cause I don't like mushy food). Overall, I thought the ingredients worked well together but there was so much ham it was overpowering. The sweetness from the maple sausage really tied the sandwich together in my opinion.

    Egg McMahon w/ avocado and jalapeños

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    5 months ago

    I tried a turkey sandwich here, and it was really good. I would definitely come back again sometime to try more from the menu.

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    5 months ago

    Overhyped , rude staff, definitely not worth the price, won't see me there again, lot of better places in that neighborhood.

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    Page 1 of 22

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    New York Bagel & Bialy

    New York Bagel & Bialy

    4.3
    (767 reviews)
    8.1 mi
    $

    Great Bagels Friendly Service Staff are great fast and efficient Reasonably priced bagelsread more

    If you're expecting this to be interchangeable with the franchised bagel places that have spread…read moreacross the country, recalibrate now. This is not that. I've been going to New York Bagel & Bialy for over 50 years, and places like this operate on a different clock, a different standard, and frankly, a different philosophy of what a bagel is supposed to be. Timing matters. If you show up after about 8:00 AM, your odds of getting bagels at their absolute peak--still warm, properly textured, with that slight resistance on the outside and softness inside--go up significantly. Earlier can be hit or miss depending on the batch cycle, but once they're in stride, this place delivers. The essentials are all here and worth your time: poppy seed, sesame, everything, and especially the bialys. The bialys alone are reason enough to make the trip--properly done, with the right chew and depth of flavor that you simply won't find in mass-produced versions. Don't overcomplicate it. Grab a dozen. On your way home, stop and pick up a couple packages of Philadelphia Cream Cheese and some smoked salmon a jar of capers, a Bermuda onion--whether here or even from Walmart--and you've got a meal that outperforms most brunch menus at a fraction of the cost. This isn't trendy. It's not trying to be. It's something better: consistent, old-world, and still doing it the right way. If you're going to call something a bagel, the standard is not branding--it's process. That's why New York Bagel & Bialy on Touhy stands apart. They actually do it right: kettle-boiled first, then baked in rotating ovens. That single decision--boiling--changes the entire structure. It gelatinizes the outer starch layer, locks in density, and produces that thin, glossy crust with real chew. Without it, you don't have a bagel--you have bread with a hole. The rotating ovens matter too. They deliver even heat, which means you get the correct balance: a slight exterior crisp with a dense, elastic interior. No puffiness. No sponge. No collapse under toppings. That's the difference here. Most chains optimize for speed and shelf life, so they steam or shortcut the process. Many local shops land in the middle. This place doesn't compromise. If you care about what a bagel is supposed to be--not just what it's called--this is the benchmark in Chicago.

    Photos
    New York Bagel & Bialy
    Ruben @ New York Bagel & Bialy.(Touhy Ave.Lincolnwood IL)Breakfast Bakery NY Bagels Bialy Sandwiches Salads Soups etc.OldFashion Deli.Cool!
    Ruben @ New York Bagel & Bialy.(Touhy Ave.Lincolnwood IL)Breakfast Bakery NY Bagels Bialy Sandwiches Salads Soups etc.OldFashion Deli.Cool!
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    Schneider Deli

    Schneider Deli

    4.4
    (209 reviews)
    2.0 mi
    $$

    Great lunch/breakfast spot with fast service and simple/fresh sandwiches…read more The oven roasted turkey sandwich was great, tasted like something my grandma would make me (in a good way). Will be back.

    I really want to like them so much more than I do. If there were a continuum from hipster deli…read more(think Mile End) to traditional deli (Manny's, 2nd Avenue, etc) Schneider would on the hipster side of center. Two of us shared a half pound pastrami on rye with a side of hash browns. The rye was pretty decent but the pastrami was sliced far too thick and the meat was lean. That is not a good thing when it comes to pastrami and I attribute the lean meat to the deli catering to its hipster-ish audience. Although the flavor was decent, the sandwich was dry and difficult to eat. We disagreed on the generously sized pickle. One of us thought the flavor was just right, the other not so much. We both agreed on the hash browns. It's a no-go. They were well fried but entirely unseasoned. I understand the lack of schmaltz but there was no onion or salt or anything else. Waffle House has nothing to worry about. (IYKYK) Service was fast and polite. The space is tiny, but it works. Prices are okay for this area but if you want traditional deli in Chicago, go to Manny's.

    Photos
    Schneider Deli @ Ohio House.600 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL  Jewish Deli Fresh Breakfast Lox Pastrami CornedBeef  Bagels & Sandwiches. Cool!
    Schneider Deli @ Ohio House.600 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL Jewish Deli Fresh Breakfast Lox Pastrami CornedBeef Bagels & Sandwiches. Cool!
    Pastrami on rye
    Pastrami on rye
    Eunice's brisket sandwich.

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    Gotham Bagels - South Loop

    Gotham Bagels - South Loop

    3.9
    (130 reviews)
    3.2 mi
    $$

    Stopped by Gotham Bagels in South Loop and had a pretty good experience. Service was fast and the…read morestaff was friendly. I really liked that they have both indoor and outdoor seating, gives you options depending on the weather. I got the lox bagel on an everything bagel. The flavors were there but the bagel itself was a bit too hard for me, kind of took away from the whole thing. Definitely want to come back and try the lox on a different bagel because I think it has potential. Also got the matcha latte and that was really good, smooth and not too sweet. That's something I'd absolutely order again. Will be back to give it another shot.

    I wanted to try the famous Gotham Bagels while I was in Chicago, and luckily this location was…read morewithin walking distance of my hostel. There was a short line when I arrived, but it moved pretty quickly. I ordered a jalapeño bagel with cream cheese along with a latte. The bagel was absolutely delicious, and the latte was great too. My only small disappointment was that they don't offer "for here" cups, even if you're staying to enjoy your coffee. Inside, there's only a small amount of seating with a few high-top tables, making it a decent spot to study or get some work done if you can grab one. They also have a larger outdoor patio along the sidewalk, which looked like a great place to sit on a nice day.

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    Vibe
    Vibe
    Breakfast bagel sandwich. I chose the poppy bagel
    Breakfast bagel sandwich. I chose the poppy bagel
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    Entrance
    Steingold's of Chicago

    Steingold's of Chicago

    3.8
    (180 reviews)
    2.3 mi
    $$

    You'd swear these are the most seeded and topped bagels you've seen. Their poppey bagels are so…read moreseeded they look like a cocoa powder dusted donut, same with the sesame and everythings. I don't know what technique they do it get or keep so much topping on them, but it's a pleasure to have too much rather than not enough. They service beer here which makes it slightly unbreakfasty and their bagel sandwiches used baked eggs rather than griddled/flat topped or from a pan. Keeps them fluffy, but I prefer mine a little runnier. Service is very good, friendly, not rushed or fake hospitality. They cure their lox in house which to me feels more tender than other places, probably just a lower, longer heating or a gentler cure. Excellent schmear, a not heavy handed when scooping (respect the schream cuz). Prices are pretty good considering the care and love they put into the bagels (hand rolled, multiple proofs). They have crunch, chew, density, but air pockets. Chef/owners def put thought into the menu with flavors like zatar, dilly ranch deviled eggs. Dr. Browns sodas. Baclava cappuccinos. White fish on bagel chips, Bagel dog is such a simple combination of not just the everything bagel seasoning, but the dough as well. And the mustard pairs better than had they added schmear (sorry Seattle dogs, i'm not a fan, i only like my cream cheese in philadelphia sushi rolls, lol) . The pizza bagel needs more toppings like pepperoni, sausage becuase then it would eat like a normal size bagel bite. The challah bread on the rachel really is more well rounded than the reuben. It's something I've been recreating back home. Giard cream cheese, cmon ya'll are really hitting the nail on the head for a Chicago bagel shop. I guess that's why there are 3 locations now. The Haystack with apple butter works better than expected, but also works with a chive cream cheese sub, no ketchup needed (if you do go with the harissa ketchup from the yada yada). BEC with a side of salted tomato and harissa ketchup is amazing. If everything was 10% more like toppings wise this would be amazing, but they always seem to skimp on something whether it's the schmear, pickels, salad. I feel like i was haggling for my meal sometimes. Prices area little high for most items, but of great value for others. It's busy in the mornings, but lines move long and only once did I have to wait for a fresh batch of anything despite some large orders ahead of me. It's a 20 minute train ride, but worth it. Prime location near Wrigley.

    If you're looking for the best za'atar bagel or lox sandwich in the city, this is the spot. I've…read morebeen going to Steingold's for years and continue coming back here despite all the new bagel stores popping up. Definitely recommend the Za'atar Bagel with Lox, Pickled Cucumbers and Chive Cream Cheese! Also, their Nutella Rugelach is to die for!!! Steingold's has a ton of unique flavors and the staff is extremely nice so they can definitely help out what best to go with when you get there. They have a ton of casual and clean seating inside, as well as outside space during the summer at a first come first serve basis. You can either order at the counter or through a QR code too!

    Photos
    Steingold's of Chicago
    Steingold's Classic Lox (Cold)
    Steingold's Classic Lox (Cold)
    Brisket and Schmaltzy Potatoes

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    The Bagelers Coffeehouse

    The Bagelers Coffeehouse

    4.3
    (494 reviews)
    0.6 mi
    $$

    Great breakfast bagel sandwiches and coffee!…read more I got The Bagler Sandwich and a mocha latte with their house made mocha. The bagel sandwich was just the right amount to satisfy my craving and wasn't too heavy or over the top. Their latte was creamy and just what I needed. It has a lot of space and I even saw people working from home from there and I wished I'd brought my laptop to get some work done as well. Service was quick and the staff was friendly.

    This spot is truly so hit or miss- the first couple of times we ordered from here it was fantastic…read morebut then in more recent visits they haven't lived up to expectations. If you place an order for pick up, it could be ready 30 minutes early or 15 minutes late - hard to time pick up. So you like a warm breakfast sandwich? You might get it! Or you'll have an un-toasted, soggy bagel. The hashyb is good when the bagel is toasted and the bacon cooked, but now the ratio of times this happens is on the unfavorable side. The lox bagel also doesn't come on a toasted bagel meaning it ends up very wet and unsavory, I ended up eating the contents of the bagel without the bagel as it was falling apart. The coffee tasted burnt. Again, when they are on it - it's great! I wish they were more consistent, I will not be returning to pay $$ for a bagel that might be decent.

    Photos
    The Bageler - Minus Bacon + Hash Brown on Cheddar Jalapeño Bagel
    The Bageler - Minus Bacon + Hash Brown on Cheddar Jalapeño Bagel
    Breakfast bagel
    Breakfast bagel
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    Hero Coffee and Bagel Bar

    Hero Coffee and Bagel Bar

    4.4
    (570 reviews)
    3.2 mi
    $$

    The absolute BEST breakfast sandwich I've ever had in my life. We walked a couple miles in the cold…read moreand missed it the first time, I'm SO glad we went back to find it. The moment you walk in the doors you're greeted by the friendliest coffee shop employee I've ever met in my life. The ambiance is perfect with insanely good choice in music, no harsh lighting, and plenty of seating. The provided WiFi just tops it off. I had no idea what I wanted and staff were awesome at getting me something amazing. I'm not sure what the iced coffee I had is (I told them to pick one for me), but as someone who spends a ton of time looking for that perfect coffee this one beat them all. The bagel breakfast sandwich was extraordinary on a jalapeño cheddar bagel that was fresh and flavorful. The cheese, egg, bacon, and cream cheese all went together perfectly. I'm so sad I've missed this place in my previous Chicago trips, it'll be my new go to every time I'm in town.

    extremely trendy coffee place -- and their drinks aren't bad either! I especially loved that they…read morehad a lot of seating at this location despite being pretty compact. they also had a bookshelf filled with games and free wifi, so it's nice to know they welcome guests for a longer sit-in. my boyfriend got an iced dirty chai and I got an iced hazelnut latte with oat milk, which came out to a little under $15. pretty reasonable prices for the add-ins we had, and the strength of the coffee was pretty decent. they also gave us a punch card for free drinks, which is greatly appreciated! would definitely come back to try their bagels, as they have a pretty extensive menu for them.

    Photos
    Kewl "Hero Coffee Bar" typeface created by Martin Schmetzer
    Kewl "Hero Coffee Bar" typeface created by Martin Schmetzer
    Coffee!
    Coffee!
    Hero Coffee and Bagel Bar

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    Chicago Bagel Authority - bagels - Updated July 2026

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