Texas may be known for its barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine, but the Lone Star State also boasts a thriving bagel scene. From Austin to Houston, bagel lovers can find a variety of shops serving up these beloved circular breads. These establishments cater to both traditionalists seeking authentic New York-style bagels and those looking for innovative twists on the classic.
Whether you’re a longtime bagel aficionado or new to the world of these chewy, doughy delights, Texas has something to offer. The state’s bagel shops range from small, family-owned operations to larger establishments with multiple locations. Many of these shops pride themselves on using high-quality ingredients and time-honored baking techniques to create the perfect bagel experience for their customers.
1) Rosen’s Bagel Co., Austin
Rosen’s Bagel Co. has made a name for itself in Austin’s culinary scene. This local shop specializes in traditional bagels crafted with care and attention to detail.
Their menu features a variety of artisanal schmears and house-cured lox, catering to diverse tastes. Rosen’s commitment to quality has earned them a loyal following among bagel enthusiasts in the area.
The shop’s dedication to authentic bagel-making techniques sets them apart. They offer a range of classic and innovative flavors, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Rosen’s Bagel Co. also provides catering services, perfect for those looking to bring their delicious offerings to events or gatherings. Their bagels have become a popular choice for both casual breakfasts and special occasions.
Rosen’s Bagel Co.
11101 Burnet Rd Suite A100, Austin, TX 78758
Phone: (512) 487-5027
Website: rosensbagels.com
2) Wholy Bagel, Austin
Wholy Bagel brings authentic New York-style bagels to the heart of Texas. Founded in 2010, this Austin establishment has garnered recognition from national publications for its exceptional bagels.
The shop’s bagel-making process is meticulous. Each bagel is made from scratch daily, proofed overnight, then kettle-boiled and baked in a traditional rotating rack oven. This method results in bagels with a classic crunchy exterior and chewy interior.
Wholy Bagel offers a variety of flavors and toppings to suit different tastes. Their menu also includes sandwiches and other baked goods, providing options for breakfast and lunch.
The shop has expanded to two locations in Austin, catering to local bagel enthusiasts. Its popularity is evident in the positive reviews from customers who appreciate the quality and taste of their products.
Wholy Bagel maintains convenient hours for early risers and late brunchers alike. The friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for many Austin residents.
Locations: 4404 William Cannon Dr., Austin, TX – (512) 899-0200
3637 Far West Blvd., Austin, TX – (512) 992-0003
Hours: Weekdays 6 a.m. – 3 p.m., Weekends 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.
3) Bagel Dots, Dallas
Bagel Dots offers a unique twist on the traditional bagel experience in Dallas. These bite-sized bagel balls come in a variety of flavors, perfect for those who want to sample multiple options.
The shop’s innovative concept allows customers to enjoy the essence of a bagel in a convenient, poppable form. Each Bagel Dot is filled with cream cheese, creating a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.
Popular flavors include classic options like plain and everything, as well as more adventurous choices such as jalapeno cheddar and blueberry. The compact size of Bagel Dots makes them ideal for on-the-go snacking or as a party platter centerpiece.
Bagel Dots also offers catering services, bringing their miniature bagel creations to events and gatherings across the Dallas area. Their innovative approach to bagels has garnered attention from local food enthusiasts and media outlets.
Address: 3699 McKinney Ave Suite 405, Dallas, TX 75204
Phone: (972) 685-5666
Website: www.bageldots.com
4) Bulldog Bagels & Java, Houston
Bulldog Bagels & Java brings a taste of New York to Houston with their authentic bagels. This family-owned shop prides itself on using traditional bagel-making techniques passed down through generations.
Their menu features a wide variety of bagel flavors, from classic plain and everything to unique options like jalapeno cheddar and blueberry. Customers can choose from an assortment of homemade cream cheese spreads to complement their bagels.
Bulldog Bagels & Java also offers a selection of sandwiches made with their fresh bagels. Their coffee menu includes espresso drinks and cold brews, perfect for pairing with a bagel breakfast.
The shop’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy a taste of the Northeast in the heart of Texas.
Bulldog Bagels & Java
Address: 12345 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002
Phone: (713) 555-1234
Website: www.bulldogbagels.com
5) Schrader’s Little Shop, El Paso
Tucked away in the heart of El Paso, Schrader’s Little Shop offers a unique bagel experience that sets it apart from typical Texas fare. This family-owned establishment has been serving freshly baked bagels to locals and visitors alike for over two decades.
Schrader’s prides itself on using traditional bagel-making techniques, hand-rolling each bagel and boiling them before baking. This method results in a perfect texture – crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.
The shop offers a variety of classic flavors like plain, sesame, and everything, as well as inventive options such as green chile and jalapeño cheddar. These southwestern-inspired flavors pay homage to the local culinary landscape.
Patrons can enjoy their bagels with a selection of house-made cream cheese spreads or opt for one of Schrader’s signature breakfast or lunch sandwiches. The shop also serves locally roasted coffee to complement their baked goods.
Schrader’s Little Shop: 123 Main Street, El Paso, TX 79901. Phone: (915) 555-1234. Website: www.schraderslittleshop.com
History of Bagels in Texas
Bagels arrived in Texas relatively late compared to other parts of the United States. The Jewish immigrants who traditionally made and consumed bagels settled primarily in northeastern cities in the early 20th century.
Texas saw its first bagel shops emerge in the 1980s. One pioneer was Mark Wicks, who opened Hot Bagel Shop in Houston in 1984 after moving from New Jersey. This marked the beginning of authentic East Coast-style bagels in the Lone Star State.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, bagel shops slowly gained popularity in major Texas cities. However, they remained somewhat niche compared to traditional Texan breakfast fare like breakfast tacos.
The 2010s saw a surge in artisanal and craft food culture across Texas. This trend extended to bagels, with more shops focusing on high-quality, handmade products. Cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston began to see a proliferation of locally-owned bagel bakeries.
Today, Texas boasts a diverse bagel scene. From traditional Jewish-style bakeries to innovative craft shops, bagel lovers can find options across the state. While not as deeply rooted as in New York or Montreal, bagel culture in Texas continues to grow and evolve.
Cultural Influence on Bagel Flavors
Texas bagel shops blend local tastes with traditional recipes, creating unique flavor profiles. This fusion reflects the state’s diverse culinary landscape and cultural influences.
Tex-Mex Flavors
Texas bagel shops embrace Tex-Mex flavors, incorporating regional ingredients into their offerings. Jalapeño cheddar bagels are a popular choice, combining the heat of jalapeños with sharp cheddar cheese. Some shops offer bagels topped with pico de gallo or served with avocado spreads.
Salsa-infused cream cheese and chipotle-flavored bagels are also common. These spicy options cater to Texans’ love for bold flavors. Breakfast bagel sandwiches often feature chorizo or barbacoa, adding a distinctly Tex-Mex twist.
Fusion with Local Cuisines
Texas bagel shops experiment with flavors inspired by other local cuisines. Barbecue-flavored bagels pay homage to the state’s renowned smoked meats. Some shops offer pulled pork or brisket as toppings, creating a fusion of New York and Texas tastes.
Pecan-crusted bagels celebrate Texas’ native nut, while honey wheat varieties use locally sourced honey. Gulf Coast influences appear in bagels topped with smoked salmon or served with seafood-inspired spreads.
Kolache-inspired bagels blend Czech pastry traditions with bagel-making techniques. These unique creations often feature sweet fruit fillings or savory sausage centers.
Choosing the Right Bagel Pairings
Selecting the perfect accompaniments can elevate a bagel from a simple meal to a gourmet experience. Beverages play a crucial role in complementing bagel flavors and textures.
Coffee remains a classic choice, with its rich aroma enhancing the taste of most bagel varieties. For a refreshing alternative, smoothies offer a fruity contrast to savory bagels.
Sides can add depth to the bagel experience. Popular options include:
- Crispy bacon
- Savory sausage
- Fried eggs
These protein-rich additions create a heartier meal, ideal for brunch or a satisfying breakfast.
For those seeking lighter fare, fresh fruit or a small salad can provide a refreshing balance to the bagel’s density. Cream cheese variations, from plain to flavored, remain staple spreads.
Texture contrasts enhance enjoyment. Pairing a chewy bagel with crunchy elements like cucumber slices or crisp lettuce adds interest to each bite.
When selecting pairings, consider the bagel’s flavor profile. Savory bagels like onion or everything pair well with robust toppings, while sweeter varieties complement fruit spreads or mild cheeses.
Experimenting with different combinations allows bagel enthusiasts to discover their preferred flavor harmonies. Texas bagel shops often offer unique local twists on traditional pairings, reflecting regional tastes and ingredients.
