There’s something magical about a fresh bagel straight from the oven, still warm and perfectly chewy. In Florida, bagel lovers know the struggle: if you don’t arrive early, you’re out of luck.
These thirteen bagel shops have earned legendary status for selling out their entire stock before lunchtime, and once you taste their creations, you’ll understand why lines form before sunrise. For anyone chasing the perfect schmear and that just-right bite, setting an early alarm is simply part of the ritual.
1. El Bagel
Authentic New York-style bagels in the heart of South Florida have earned El Bagel a devoted following that shows up before dawn. Their secret lies in hand-rolling every single bagel and boiling them the traditional way before baking, creating that signature crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior.
You’ll find them at 1990 Tigertail Avenue in Coconut Grove, Miami, where the aroma of fresh-baked bagels draws crowds from across the city…