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Apollo Bagels

4.5
·774 reviews·New York, United States

Hand-rolled, boiled, and toasted bagels with fresh, creative toppings. A must-try for any bagel lover in NYC.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings (before 9 AM)

Shortest lines, freshest bagels

CrowdLow
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Apollo Bagels - Image 1

Apollo Bagels

Best Time

Weekday mornings (before 9 AM)

Shortest lines, freshest bagels

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hand-rolled, boiled, and toasted bagels with fresh, creative toppings. A must-try for any bagel lover in NYC.

4.5
(774 reviews)

"They might have the best bagels I've ever eaten in my entire life."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Go Early on Weekdays

Avoid the weekend madness! Weekday mornings before 9 AM offer the shortest waits and the freshest bagels.

🍅 Don't Skip the Tomato Bagel

It's a standout! The simple yet perfect execution of tomato, cream cheese, and olive oil is a must-try.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Tomato Bagel

The Iconic Tomato Bagel

East Village

A simple yet divine combination of ripe tomato, cream cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper on a perfectly toasted bagel.

InstagramReddit
Everything Bagel with Smoked Salmon

Everything Bagel with Smoked Salmon

All locations

A classic elevated with fresh, flavorful lox, cream cheese, capers, and red onion on a perfectly chewy everything bagel.

Instagram+1
Butter and Jam Bagel

Butter and Jam Bagel

All locations

A surprisingly delightful sweet and savory option, perfect for those seeking a comforting and delicious treat.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Bagel Rush

Apollo Bagels are incredibly popular, leading to long lines, especially on weekends. Arrive early on weekdays for the shortest waits, or be prepared to spend an hour or more in line during peak times. TikTokReddit

Beyond the Classic

While traditional lox and cream cheese are a hit, don't shy away from unique combinations like the tomato bagel with cream cheese. Many reviewers rave about these creative offerings. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings (before 9 AM)
Why
Shortest lines, freshest bagels
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings (early)
Why
Still a chance for shorter waits
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less crowded, still great bagels
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Trying the new most hyped up bagel in NYC
📍Apollo Bagels, NYC

#nyc #nycbagel #breakfast #bagelandlox #bageltok #bageltiktok #homeadebagel #handtossedbagel #freshbagel #nycbreakfast #nycbestbagel #jacksdiningroom #tomatobagel #freshdough #bagel
@jacksdiningroom
115.4K likes • 1.9M views

🎯 Go Early on Weekdays

Avoid the weekend madness! Weekday mornings before 9 AM offer the shortest waits and the freshest bagels. TikTokReddit

🍅 Don't Skip the Tomato Bagel

It's a standout! The simple yet perfect execution of tomato, cream cheese, and olive oil is a must-try. InstagramReddit

NYC apollos bagels
@sanguyenn
24.8K likes • 478.6K views
Bagels that’ll have you saying wow 🤯 @apollobagels had us fall in love with just one bite!! It’s so good! We were impressed & can’t wait to go back for more 😋 Definitely worth the hype!🔥 📍Location: 242 E 10th St, New York, NY 10003
sambameatstheworld
179 likes • 10.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Be Prepared for Lines

Weekend lines can stretch for blocks. If you're visiting then, pack your patience or consider a weekday trip. TikTokInstagram

✨ Freshly Made Spreads

From jalapeño cream cheese to honey cinnamon butter, their spreads are made fresh daily and are incredibly delicious. Instagram

Would you wait an hour in line for bagels? Is it worth it? 🥯👀 Apollo Bagels (@apollobagels) 📍 242 E 10th St, East Village 🎥: @lolosykes #newyorklocals
newyorklocals
0 likes • 239.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Go Early on Weekdays

Avoid the weekend madness! Weekday mornings before 9 AM offer the shortest waits and the freshest bagels. TikTokReddit

🍅 Don't Skip the Tomato Bagel

It's a standout! The simple yet perfect execution of tomato, cream cheese, and olive oil is a must-try. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Be Prepared for Lines

Weekend lines can stretch for blocks. If you're visiting then, pack your patience or consider a weekday trip. TikTokInstagram

✨ Freshly Made Spreads

From jalapeño cream cheese to honey cinnamon butter, their spreads are made fresh daily and are incredibly delicious. Instagram

☕️ Great Coffee & Vibe

Enjoy excellent coffee and a perfect New York mood with a great playlist while you wait or dine. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(774 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Apollo Bagels is widely praised for its exceptionally fresh, hand-rolled bagels with a perfect crispy-chewy texture. Reviewers rave about the high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations, particularly the standout tomato bagel. The friendly atmosphere and good coffee also contribute to a positive experience, though long lines, especially on weekends, are a common point of contention. TikTokInstagramReddit

"One of the best spots to stop by on a weekend morning! I went to the Apollo Bagel in East Village, and honestly — everything was perfect. It’s not easy to find bagels this fresh, thoughtful, and full of character right in the heart of Manhattan.

I tried the Everything Bagel with salmon, the butter & jam bagel, the white fish bagel, and even the tomato bagel — and every single one of them was incredible. The ingredients are unbelievably fresh and high quality; you can taste the difference in every bite.

The vibe inside is just right — great energy, great coffee, and the music playlist fits the New York mood perfectly. Reed and Dan were super kind, attentive, and full of positive energy. Service and atmosphere were both spot-on.

I’ve been here before, I came again, and I’ll definitely keep coming back. This place has easily become one of my favorite bagel spots in the city — and I’ll be recommending it to everyone I know. 🥯☕🎶"

Mucahit Ege

"I honestly thought Apollo Bagels might be one of those over-hyped spots, but it definitely exceeded my expectations. I tried the whitefish sandwich with mustard and pickled peppers the flavors were really balanced. The cucumbers were perfectly seasoned, sliced super thin, and the olive oil they use is clearly top quality. The ginger lemonade was also refreshing and had just the right amount of bite. Overall, a great place for a quick breakfast, and even though there was a line, it moved very quickly. Definitely worth stopping by."

John Gonsalves

"breakfast at apollo bagels!

actually we were supposed to go the day before, which was a sunday, but the line was incredibly long. like wrapped around 5 times in greenwich. i dont even want to imagine how long that would take. so we decided to skip and made time for monday morning! no line at all and we got a lox bagel to share :) the bagel itself was crispy, light, and had still had some chew to it. it wasnt dense at all and super airy for a bagel! we liked it!! my friend said its one of the best bagels she's ever had. toppings were pretty good too! would i wait in line for this? no. but i would come here again if im ever craving a lox bagel on a WEEKDAY with no lines :)"

Natalie Yung

What People Like

Fresh, high-quality bagels
Unique flavor combinations
Friendly atmosphere and service

What People Dislike

Long weekend lines

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Apollo Bagels has multiple locations across NYC, including the East Village (242 E 10th St) and Greenwich Village (73 Greenwich Ave). They also have a location in FiDi (41 John Street) and Hoboken. The East Village location is easily accessible via the L train to Bedford Ave or the F, M, J, Z trains to Delancey St-Essex St. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, all their New York City locations are well-served by subway lines. Check your preferred transit app for the closest station to your chosen Apollo Bagels spot. TikTokInstagram

Street parking in Manhattan can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach Apollo Bagels. TikTok

While the exact 'original' can be debated, the East Village location at 242 E 10th St is frequently cited and highly reviewed, often considered a flagship. TikTokInstagram+1

Apollo Bagels are available for delivery through various third-party apps. Check your preferred food delivery service for availability in your area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Apollo Bagels is a walk-in establishment. You purchase your bagels and food directly at the counter. TikTok

Opening hours can vary slightly by location and day, but they generally open early in the morning, often around 7 AM, and close in the afternoon. It's best to check their specific location's hours online before visiting. Reddit

A plain bagel with cream cheese can range from $7-$10, while more elaborate options like the everything bagel with smoked salmon can cost around $15. InstagramReddit

Yes, especially on weekends and during peak hours, expect significant wait times, sometimes up to an hour or more. Weekday mornings are your best bet for shorter lines. TikTokInstagramReddit

Apollo Bagels does not take reservations. It's a first-come, first-served establishment, so be prepared to queue during busy periods. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Everything Bagel with smoked salmon and cream cheese, and the unique Tomato Bagel with cream cheese are consistently praised and highly recommended by visitors. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! Apollo Bagels are known for being made fresh throughout the day, with a crispy exterior and a fluffy, chewy interior. TikTokInstagramReddit

Beyond classic cream cheese, they offer delicious spreads like jalapeño cream cheese and honey cinnamon butter, all made fresh daily. Instagram

Yes, the Tomato Bagel with cream cheese is a popular vegetarian choice. They also offer plain bagels with various spreads. InstagramReddit

They serve coffee, including matcha, and other refreshing beverages like ginger lemonade. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Everything Bagel with smoked salmon and the vibrant Tomato Bagel with cream cheese are visually appealing and make for great photos. Instagram+1

Yes, most visitors take photos of their food and the shop. Be mindful of other customers and staff while capturing your shots. Instagram

Morning light can be beautiful, but be aware that it might coincide with the busiest times. Consider visiting on a weekday morning for good light and fewer crowds. TikTok

The bagels themselves are the stars! Focus on close-ups of the toppings and the texture of the bagel. The shop's interior can also offer a nice backdrop. Instagram

Popular hashtags include #apollobagels, #nycbagels, #bageltok, #nycfood, and #eastvillage. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Apollo Bagels can be a fun outing for families, but be prepared for potential wait times, especially on weekends. TikTokInstagram Consider visiting on a weekday morning to minimize the wait and keep little ones happy. Reddit The unique bagel creations, like the tomato bagel, might be a hit with adventurous eaters, while classic options are also available. Instagram The friendly atmosphere and good coffee make it a pleasant spot for parents too. Reddit

Pack snacks and drinks if you anticipate a long wait, or plan to grab your bagels and find a nearby park to enjoy them. TikTok The East Village location is centrally located and can be a good starting point for a family day exploring the city. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

While not the cheapest bagel option in NYC, Apollo Bagels offers good value for the quality. Instagram A plain bagel with cream cheese is a more budget-friendly choice, typically costing around $7-$10. InstagramReddit For a more substantial meal, the signature sandwiches can range from $15 upwards. Instagram To save money, consider sharing a larger sandwich or opting for simpler toppings. Reddit

Visiting on a weekday morning is also a budget-friendly tip, as it avoids the weekend rush and potential for longer waits, saving you valuable time. TikTokReddit Bringing your own water bottle can also help cut down on drink costs. TikTok

couples

Apollo Bagels offers a quintessential New York City experience perfect for couples looking for a delicious and trendy breakfast or brunch. TikTokInstagram Share a variety of bagels to sample different flavors, from the classic lox to the unique tomato bagel. InstagramReddit The lively atmosphere and friendly service create a fun and engaging dining experience. InstagramReddit

Consider a weekday morning visit for a more relaxed and intimate experience, allowing you to savor your bagels and conversation without the intense crowds. TikTokReddit The East Village or Greenwich Village locations offer charming surroundings for a romantic start to your day. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Apollo Bagel Difference

Apollo Bagels has carved out a significant niche in the competitive New York City bagel scene, with many claiming they offer the best bagels in the city. TikTokInstagram The secret, according to many, lies in their meticulous preparation: hand-rolled, boiled, and then lightly toasted bagels. This process results in a unique texture – a crispy exterior that gives way to a fluffy, airy interior with a satisfying chew. TikTokInstagramReddit This contrasts with some traditional New York bagels that can be denser. The quality of their ingredients, from the fresh salmon to the perfectly seasoned tomatoes, further elevates the experience. Reddit

What truly sets Apollo Bagels apart is their innovative approach to toppings and sandwiches. While they excel at classics like the Everything Bagel with smoked salmon, their Tomato Bagel with cream cheese has become a cult favorite. InstagramReddit This simple yet impeccable combination of ripe tomato, cream cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper is a testament to their understanding of flavor balance. They also offer unique spreads like jalapeño cream cheese and honey cinnamon butter, all made fresh daily. Instagram This dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation is what keeps customers coming back, even after enduring long lines. Reddit

The atmosphere at Apollo Bagels is also a significant draw. Reviewers often mention the great energy, friendly staff, and well-curated music playlists that perfectly capture the New York mood. InstagramReddit This welcoming environment, combined with the exceptional quality of their food, makes Apollo Bagels more than just a breakfast stop; it's an experience. Despite the hype and the often-long waits, the consensus is that Apollo Bagels delivers a truly memorable and delicious bagel experience that is worth the effort. TikTokInstagramReddit

Navigating the Lines and Peak Times

The popularity of Apollo Bagels is undeniable, and this often translates into significant wait times, particularly on weekends. TikTokInstagramReddit Many visitors report lines stretching around the block, especially during peak brunch hours on Saturdays and Sundays. TikTokInstagram If you're aiming to avoid the longest queues, arriving early on a weekday morning (before 9 AM) is your best strategy. TikTokReddit During these times, you might find only a handful of people ahead of you, allowing for a much quicker and more relaxed experience. Reddit

Even with a line, the service at Apollo Bagels is generally efficient. Reddit While the preparation of each bagel is done with care, the staff works diligently to move customers through the ordering process. Instagram Some reviewers suggest that even during busy periods, the wait, while long, is often worth it for the quality of the bagels. Reddit If a weekend visit is unavoidable, consider going slightly later in the afternoon, though availability of certain items might be reduced. Reddit Ultimately, patience is key when visiting Apollo Bagels during its popular hours, but the reward is a truly exceptional bagel. TikTokInstagram