ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Eats in West Village
Master Critic Review
Bagels on the Square
8.1
Operating since the 1980s beside Joe's, Bagels on the Square is a compact counter turning out hand-rolled, freshly baked bagels with a deep bench of cream cheeses and egg sandwiches. It’s a neighborhood staple for quick breakfasts and grab-and-go lunches that stay firmly under a typical sit-down check.
Must-Try Dishes:
Everything bagel with scallion cream cheese, Turkey, egg and cheese sandwich, Sourdough bagel with lox spread
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: A long-running neighborhood bagel counter with serious variety and turnover.
Who should go: Bagel lovers wanting affordable breakfast near Washington Square.
When to visit: Morning through early lunch before the line stretches outside.
What to order: Everything bagel, scallion cream cheese, turkey egg and cheese.
Insider tip: Grab your bagel and eat on the benches in Father Demo Square.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally difficult after 8am due to commuter traffic and local regulations.
Dress code: Casual—athleisure, sweats, and morning errand wear are all normal.
Noise level: Low to moderate; small space with steady counter traffic but easy for brief conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—primarily a morning and midday spot.
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes depending on the bagel and sandwich line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple cream cheeses, egg sandwiches, and veggie spreads.
Vegan options: Limited—plain bagels are typically vegan, plus vegetable toppings; check cream cheese alternatives, which vary.
Gluten-free options: Limited—no true gluten-free bagels; only toppings are gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only for a very casual morning meetup—it's counter-service with no real seating, better suited for a quick shared walk-and-talk breakfast.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no tables or reservations; most guests grab and go or eat at nearby outdoor benches.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick stops—bagels and simple sandwiches work well for kids, but the tight interior can be tricky with strollers.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and more classic New York–style hand-rolled bagels than many neighboring cafés.
Consider Alternatives If: You need indoor seating, gluten-free bagels, or a leisurely breakfast environment.