Milwaukee's Best Bagels [Updated 2025]

Each bite of a perfectly baked bagel tells a story, and trust me, I’ve tasted my way through the cream cheese-laden legends of this city. After sampling bagels from 12 of Milwaukee’s top spots, I’ve unearthed some hidden gems and revisited beloved classics that will make your taste buds dance.

As someone who’s dedicated countless brunches to this chewy, doughy delight, I’ve honed my palate to appreciate the subtle nuances of a good bagel. Whether you’re a fan of a classic everything or a daringly creative flavor, I’ve got the inside scoop that’ll guide you to your next favorite bite. Get ready to embark on a bagel adventure that will leave you craving more!

The National Cafe

Highlights
Cozy atmosphere
Flavorful breakfast options
Friendly and helpful staff
Efficient online ordering
Great croissants and pastries

The National Cafe: A Bagel Lover’s Paradise

When I stepped into The National Cafe, I was immediately struck by its cozy atmosphere. The warm lighting and inviting decor made me feel like I was grabbing breakfast at a friend’s house, rather than simply another café in Milwaukee. As I perused the menu, I found an array of flavorful breakfast options that certainly caught my eye, but the star of the show was the bagel.

I ordered their signature bagel topped with a perfect blend of cream cheese and house-made toppings. Each bite was a delight, showcasing the bagel’s warm, chewy texture that I crave. The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful, offering recommendations that truly enhanced my experience. I appreciated their efficiency, especially with the online ordering — a big plus for busy mornings.

While I was there, I couldn’t resist indulging in their delectable croissants and pastries as well. If you find yourself in Milwaukee and craving a bagel that elevates brunch to new heights, The National Cafe is not to be missed! You’ll leave with a full belly and a satisfied smile.

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Amaranth Bakery & Café

Highlights
Charming and cozy ambiance
Delicious bakery treats
Excellent Anodyne coffee
Friendly and attentive staff
Serene and calming atmosphere

Amaranth Bakery & Café Review

Stepping into Amaranth Bakery & Café feels like entering a cozy hug. The charming ambiance instantly puts you at ease, making it the perfect spot for a morning bagel run. I was greeted by the friendly staff, who seemed to radiate warmth and hospitality.

Now, let’s talk bagels! The menu features a delightful selection, and I couldn't resist trying their signature bagel. It had the perfect balance of chewiness and crunch, with a gorgeous golden crust that promised a flavorful bite. Paired with a smear of cream cheese, the experience was genuinely blissful.

But the bagels aren’t the only stars here. I enjoyed a cup of Anodyne coffee, which complemented my meal beautifully with its rich, bold flavors. After indulging, I savored a few of their other bakery treats— heavenly!

With its serene and calming atmosphere, Amaranth is not just a café; it's a hidden treasure in Milwaukee. If you're on the hunt for a delightful bagel adventure paired with great coffee and friendly service, look no further. This place is truly a gem in the Milwaukee bagel scene!

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Sprocket Cafe

Highlights
Delightful Atmosphere
Perfectly Toasted Bagels
Great Lunch Sandwiches
Regarded Local Gem
Quality Coffee and Tea

Sprocket Cafe truly stands out as a delightful local gem in Milwaukee's ever-growing cafe scene. Stepping in, I was instantly captivated by the unique, bike-themed decor that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely brunch or a quick bite.

Now, let’s talk about the main star of the show: the bagels. These beauties are perfectly toasted, sporting a golden exterior while maintaining a soft, chewy center. I savored the classic everything bagel, and it was bursting with flavor that danced on my palate.

But the excitement doesn’t end there! Sprocket offers an enticing array of lunch sandwiches, each showcasing their bagels’ versatility. I indulged in a lox spread on a fresh bagel, which was a harmonious blend of richness and brightness.

To complement the feast, I opted for a cup of their house brew, which paired wonderfully with my meal. If you’re in search of quality coffee and tea, Sprocket Cafe has you covered. Overall, this cafe knocked it out of the park. If you're on the hunt for the best bagels in Milwaukee, look no further; Sprocket Cafe is a must-try!

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Ruby’s Bagels

Ruby’s Bagels is a delightful gem hidden in Milwaukee! As I stepped inside, the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bagels wafted through the air, instantly lifting my spirits. I opted for the everything bagel, toasted to perfection and generously smeared with cream cheese. The crunch of seeds paired with a soft, chewy interior was a match made in bagel heaven. What sets Ruby’s apart is their quirky atmosphere and friendly staff, turning a simple breakfast into a joyful experience. If you’re on the hunt for a bagel that’s both delicious and memorable, Ruby’s is not to be missed!

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Allie Boy’s Bagelry & Luncheonette

Allie Boy’s Bagelry & Luncheonette is a gem in the heart of Milwaukee, and it's an experience that elevates the humble bagel to an art form. The crust has a perfect balance of chewiness and crispness, while the flavors burst through with each bite. I opted for the everything bagel, generously topped, and the cream cheese was velvety and rich, elevating the entire ensemble. The friendly staff and charming ambiance create an inviting atmosphere that begs you to linger with your morning brew. If you’re in search of a bagel that delights, Allie Boy’s is the place to be—pure bagel bliss!

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Ruby's Bagels - North Ave

Upon entering Ruby's Bagels - North Ave, the delightful aroma of baking dough immediately hugs you like an old friend. Their hand-rolled bagels showcase a perfect balance of chewiness and flavor, particularly the everything bagel, bursting with seasoning on every inch. I paired mine with a generous smear of cream cheese, which was as creamy and indulgent as one could hope.

The ambiance is vibrant yet cozy, making it an ideal spot for catching up with friends or just indulging in some bagel bliss. For anyone on a quest for the best bagels in Milwaukee, Ruby's undeniably deserves a spot on your list!

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Allie Boy’s Bagelry & Luncheonette | East Side

Allie Boy’s Bagelry & Luncheonette on the East Side is a delightful gem that delivers bagel bliss! As I stepped inside, the cozy ambiance wrapped around me like a warm hug. Their everything bagel is a must-try—perfectly toasted with a glorious crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. I paired it with their creamy house-made chive spread, and let me tell you, it was a match made in bagel heaven. The staff is friendly, and the vibe is laid-back, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely morning. Do yourself a favor and pay them a visit!

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Bruegger's Bagels

At Bruegger's Bagels, the atmosphere is as warm as their freshly baked bagels! I opted for the classic everything bagel, toasted to perfection, with a generous spread of cream cheese that danced with flavor. The chewy texture combined with a delightful crunch created a symphony for my taste buds. Their coffee seamlessly complemented my bagel choice, making for a perfectly satisfying breakfast.

While the selection may not be the largest in town, the quality is undeniably top-notch. If you're a bagel lover in Milwaukee, this spot deserves a spot on your culinary itinerary! Don’t miss out!

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The Bread Pedalers

Upon entering The Bread Pedalers, I was greeted by the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked goods. Their bagels are nothing short of artistry—each one boasts a perfect crust and a chewy, flavorful interior. I indulged in the classic everything bagel, adorned with a delightful blend of seeds and spices. The flavor explosion was accompanied by their house-made cream cheese, which added a creamy richness that elevated the experience. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff made my visit all the more enjoyable. If you're on the hunt for scrumptious bagels in Milwaukee, The Bread Pedalers is an absolute must-try!

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Hen's Deli

Hen's Deli is a gem in Milwaukee's bagel scene, offering a delightful twist on classic favorites. I indulged in their everything bagel, which was perfectly toasted to a golden brown, creating that ideal crunch. The generous spread of cream cheese was rich and creamy, bringing out the flavors of the seasonings flawlessly. Their lively atmosphere, complete with friendly staff, makes for a perfect breakfast spot. I particularly loved their inventive seasonal flavors, like the pumpkin spice bagel—a must-try when in season! If you’re searching for artisanal quality and a bit of whimsy, Hen's Deli should top your list!

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Cranky Al's

Cranky Al's is a delightful gem that serves up bagels with a twist. As soon as you step inside, the warm, inviting atmosphere sets the stage for a delightful culinary adventure. Their everything bagel is a must-try, perfectly chewy and bursting with flavor, topped with a generous sprinkle of seasonings. The cream cheese selection is equally impressive, particularly the herb-infused variety that complements the bagel superbly. The friendly staff adds to the charm, making every visit a treat. If you're in search of a bagel worth raving about, Cranky Al's will undoubtedly leave you grinning from ear to ear!

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Grebe's Bakery

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, Grebe's Bakery is a delightful gem that radiates warmth and tradition. Their bagels are nothing short of extravagant, boasting a perfectly chewy texture and rich, flavorful crust. I tried the everything bagel—a harmonious blend of seasonings that danced on my palate! The cream cheese options were equally impressive, particularly the chive variety, which added a fresh zing. Every bite felt like a celebration of Milwaukee's culinary spirit. With its charming atmosphere and dedication to quality, Grebe's is a must-visit for anyone serious about bagel bliss.

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