National Bagel Day is Jan. 15, and if you’re looking for the best bagels in SoCal, skip the grocery aisle and do it right. Bagels may have East Coast DNA, but Southern California has built a serious bagel scene that blends tradition with the region’s love of fresh ingredients, global flavors and creative twists.
From San Diego to Los Angeles, these standout bagels share a few non-negotiables: a chewy interior, a properly crisp exterior and enough structure to hold up to generous toppings. What sets them apart is how local shops interpret the classic.
Courage Bagels (Los Angeles)
Courage Bagels has become one of the most talked-about bagel shops in L.A., and for good reason. Their Montreal-style bagels are wood-fired, slightly sweet, and intensely chewy, with a blistered crust that fans swear by. The menu is intentionally tight, putting the focus on quality over quantity.
Must-order: Everything bagel with house-cured gravlax and classic schmear. It’s the benchmark order and absolutely lives up to the hype.
Hank’s Bagels (Multiple L.A. locations)
If you’re craving a more traditional New York–style bagel, Hank’s delivers consistency and variety. Known for their wide range of bagel flavors and generous sandwich builds, Hank’s strikes a solid balance between classic technique and crowd-pleasing comfort food.
Must-order: Bacon, egg, and cheese on an everything bagel — simple, filling, and exactly what you want on National Bagel Day.
Shirley’s Bagels (San Diego County and Orange County)
A longtime Southern California staple, Shirley’s Bagels keeps things classic and unfussy. With locations throughout San Diego County and Orange County, including Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach, it’s one of the easiest ways to experience old-school, boiled-and-baked bagels without a lot of hype.
Must-order: Sesame bagel with scallion cream cheese. Straightforward, nostalgic, and executed well — a reminder that the basics still matter when talking about the best bagels in Southern California.
Bagels & Brew (Lake Forest, Orange County)
Bagels & Brew is a strong Orange County standout with a loyal local following. The bagels are generously sized, chewy, and built to handle loaded sandwiches. It’s casual, reliable, and exactly the kind of neighborhood shop people come back to again and again.
Must-order: Breakfast bagel sandwich with eggs, cheese, and your protein of choice. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect if you’re celebrating National Bagel Day on the go.
Noah’s Bagels (Southern California locations)
While it’s a larger chain, Noah’s remains a staple for many locals and still earns a spot in conversations about the best bagels in Southern California. The wide menu, all-day availability, and familiar flavors make it an easy grab-and-go option.
Must-order: Everything bagel with scallion cream cheese — a longtime favorite that never disappoints.
Nomad Donuts (San Diego)
Nomad Donuts isn’t exclusively a bagel shop, but their bagels have built a loyal following of their own. Hand-rolled and thoughtfully flavored, they lean into creative combinations while still respecting the fundamentals.
Must-order: Jalapeño cheese bagel with cream cheese. It’s flavorful without being over-the-top and shows how San Diego likes to put its own spin on tradition.
Wherever you end up, National Bagel Day is the perfect excuse to skip the carb counting and indulge. Go early, expect lines at popular spots and don’t overthink it.
