ZipPicks Awards
Best Bagels in South Loop
Best Bagels in Gold Coast & Old Town
Best Sandwiches in Gold Coast & Old Town
Master Critic Review
Gotham Bagels
8.0
A New York-style bagel counter that’s strongest when you stick to the classics: a properly toasted bagel, a clean cream-cheese lane, and a topping that doesn’t fight the chew. The room runs quick and compact, so it’s best treated as a grab-and-go staple rather than a long hang.
Must-Try Dishes:
Premium Atlantic cold-smoked salmon bagel, Cinnamon sugar bagel with maple cream cheese, Bacon, egg & cheese bagel sandwich
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: New York-style bagels with a tight, classic toppings lane.
Who should go: Bagel purists who want a fast, reliable fix
When to visit: Early morning for the best selection
What to order: Smoked salmon bagel, cinnamon sugar + maple cream cheese, bacon egg & cheese
Insider tip: Keep it simple—classic spreads and one topping hit best here.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking nearby; limited availability during peak mornings. No valet.
Dress code: Ultra-casual — athleisure, jeans, or workday grab-and-go attire fits right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — short conversations are easy, but it’s not a linger-and-talk space.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — primarily a breakfast and daytime counter spot.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait most days; brief line during late-morning rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple cream cheese spreads, egg-and-cheese builds, and veggie-friendly bagels.
Vegan options: Limited — vegan cream cheese is usually available, but options are simple.
Gluten-free options: Limited — gluten-free bagels may be available, but cross-contamination is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual, daytime coffee-and-bagel meet. It’s low-pressure and quick, but not designed for lingering or privacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service with limited seating. Most people grab and go rather than wait for a seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple menu, quick service, and familiar flavors work well for kids, especially for a fast breakfast stop.
Best For
Better for: Classic New York–style bagels done clean and fast, with a focus on texture and straightforward builds.
Skip if: You want a long sit-down brunch, specialty bagel sandwiches, or a wide, experimental topping menu.