ZipPicks Awards
Best Bagels in Morris Park
Master Critic Review
Empire Bagels
8.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Brunch Bliss Spots
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Empire Bagels is a tiny walk-up window under the 6 train in Pelham Bay turning out puffy, chewy New York–style bagels with a shiny crust and light cream cheese. Lines of regulars, strong multi-platform ratings, and coverage from The Infatuation make it the purest, most focused bagel experience in 10461. You come here early for still-warm bagels, simple coffee, and a strictly bagels-first menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Everything bagel with light scallion cream cheese, Cinnamon raisin bagel with a smear, Plain bagel with nova and tomato
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Single-focus Bronx bagel window where chewy, still-warm bagels sell out by noon.
Who should go: Bagel purists chasing classic New York texture.
When to visit: Early mornings before 10am for best selection.
What to order: Everything bagel with scallion cream cheese, nova on plain, cinnamon raisin.
Insider tip: Show up right at opening on weekends when trays are freshest and lines shortest.