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La Brea Bagel Co
Master Critic Review
La Brea Bagel Co
7.9
La Brea Bagel Co serves kosher New York-style bagels, spreads, and omelettes in a casual Beverly Boulevard storefront that doubles as a neighborhood breakfast stop. The menu leans into lox, tuna, and whitefish bagels alongside salads and egg plates, drawing regulars from La Brea, Fairfax, and nearby studios.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smoked salmon spread bagel, Chunky lox with cream cheese bagel, Jalapeño cheese bagel with custom spread
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Kosher New York-style bagel counter with extensive lox and spread options.
Who should go: Kosher diners and bagel fans wanting classic toppings.
When to visit: Weekday mornings or early afternoons before school let-out.
What to order: Smoked salmon spread bagel, Nova lox bagel, omelette with bagel.
Insider tip: Use spreads like jalapeño or Mediterranean salad to customize a simple everything bagel into a full meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along La Brea and Beverly; usually manageable on weekdays but can fill quickly during school pick-up hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—standard café attire is perfectly appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate during peak breakfast hours; generally easy to hold a conversation at most other times.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—this is a breakfast/lunch operation, typically closing before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: Short wait of 5–10 minutes during the lunch rush; often no wait before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple bagels, spreads, salads, and omelettes are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—plain bagels and some vegetable toppings/spreads may work, but cream cheese alternatives are scarce.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free bagels, but some salads and egg plates can be made gluten-free; cross-contamination likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date unless you want a low-key, informal meet-up over coffee and bagels. The vibe is more functional neighborhood café than romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's counter service with self-seating, so reservations aren't required. Arrive earlier on weekdays to grab one of the limited tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families stop in frequently. Simple bagels, egg dishes, and quick service make it friendly for kids of all ages, though there are no dedicated amenities like high chairs or play spaces.
Best For
Better for: A broader spread selection, kosher-friendly offerings, and customizable bagel plates make it great for diners who want classic toppings without the higher prices or long lines of trendier spots.
Skip if: You want artisan, wood-fired, or ultra-chewy East Coast–style bagels; spots like The Bagel Broker or Courage Bagels offer more specialized textures and preparation styles.