Skip to main content

ZipPicks Awards

Best Bagels in Downtown LA

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Unity Bagels Downtown 8.3
Downtown LA
Unity Bagels operates downtown as a farmers-market–born bagel specialist, turning out hand-rolled rings and a small lineup of composed sandwiches. The style splits the difference between Montreal and East Coast, with heavily seasoned crusts and a lighter interior that works well with creative toppings. It’s especially appealing if you like bagels that feel chef-y without losing their comfort-food core.
Must-Try Dishes: Nemo Sandwich, Cali Sandwich, Everything Bagel with Chive Cream Cheese
Scores:
Value: 8.2 Service: 8 Consistency: 8 Food Quality: 8.8 Atmosphere: 6.5 Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Hand-rolled, heavily seasoned bagels with playful sandwich builds.
Who should go: Weekend downtown wanderers craving inventive bagel sandwiches.
When to visit: Sunday market hours before midday rush fully kicks in.
What to order: Nemo sandwich, Cali sandwich, everything bagel with chive schmear.
Insider tip: Pre-order online when available so your sandwich doesn’t sell out.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Broadway and Spring is the norm; spots turn over quickly on Sunday mornings but tighten after 11am. Several paid lots within a 2–4 minute walk.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed; workout clothes, jeans, and weekend streetwear all fit the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate during peak hours due to market crowds; still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable; primarily a daytime operation.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes depending on market foot traffic; sandwiches may sell out earlier.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection — multiple veggie-leaning bagels and schmears.
Vegan options: Limited — can build vegan-friendly bags with avocado, veggies, and certain spreads, but no fully dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free bagels; cross-contact risk is high due to hand-rolled flour-heavy prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual, low-pressure morning date—especially if you're strolling downtown or hitting the market. Not ideal if you want a long sit-down meal or quieter ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. Seating is walk-up only and varies by market crowd. Expect limited tables; plan to dine standing or take your bagel to-go if it’s crowded.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes—quick service, simple menu items, and open market-style seating. Best for older kids who don’t need high chairs or long table setups.
Best For
Better for: Creative, chef-driven bagel sandwiches with distinctive seasoning—more adventurous than most traditional bagel spots downtown.
Skip if: You need gluten-free bagels, want a full café-style brunch, or prefer classic New York–style heft without chef-y twists.

Hours

Monday7am - 2:15pm
Tuesday7am - 2:15pm
Wednesday7am - 2:15pm
Thursday7am - 2:15pm
Friday7am - 2:15pm
Saturday8am - 2:15pm
Sunday8am - 2:15pm