Brooklyn, New York is renowned for its vibrant food scene, and one establishment that stands out in the borough’s culinary landscape is the House of Bagels. This beloved spot has been a local favorite for decades, offering an authentic New York bagel experience that’s rich in tradition and flavor.
The House of Bagels is more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a destination where bagel lovers gather to indulge in freshly baked goods, diverse spreads, and hearty sandwiches. Their menu perfectly balances classic Jewish deli influences with contemporary tastes, making it a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic taste of Brooklyn’s bagel culture.
At House of Bagels, the menu is crafted to satisfy a wide range of preferences—from traditional plain bagels to inventive sandwich creations. Every item is prepared with care, using high-quality ingredients that elevate the humble bagel to a culinary delight.
Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon snack, the menu offers something that promises both familiarity and surprise. For locals and visitors alike, the House of Bagels represents the quintessential New York bagel shop experience, where every bite tells a story of heritage and passion for good food.
Classic Bagels and Spreads
The foundation of House of Bagels’ menu lies in its extensive selection of classic bagels paired with an array of delicious spreads. These offerings pay homage to traditional New York bagel craftsmanship, ensuring every bagel is perfectly chewy with a satisfyingly crisp crust.
Patrons can choose from a variety of bagel flavors which provide the perfect canvas for their preferred spread.
Each bagel is hand-rolled and boiled before being baked to perfection, creating an authentic texture that many connoisseurs seek. The menu features favorite staples such as plain, sesame, poppy seed, everything, and cinnamon raisin bagels.
For those interested in exploring unique flavors, specialty options like onion and garlic bagels are also available.
The spread options are equally impressive, ranging from classic cream cheese to more inventive flavors that add a creative twist to the traditional bagel experience. The spreads are made fresh daily, with an emphasis on quality and flavor balance.
- Classic Cream Cheese: Smooth, rich, and perfect for any bagel.
- Vegetable Cream Cheese: Cream cheese blended with fresh veggies like chives, peppers, and onions.
- Scallion Spread: A tangy and fresh spread with chopped scallions.
- Nova Lox Spread: A luxurious blend incorporating smoked salmon and cream cheese.
“The perfect bagel starts with quality dough and ends with a spread that complements without overpowering.” – House of Bagels Founder
Signature Sandwiches
House of Bagels elevates the traditional bagel sandwich by offering a diverse menu of signature options that cater to every palate. These sandwiches combine fresh, locally sourced ingredients with classic deli flavors, creating a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of day.
From breakfast staples to deli classics, the sandwich menu is designed to appeal to both traditionalists and adventurous eaters. Each sandwich is carefully constructed with a generous portion of fillings, ensuring that every bite is flavorful and fulfilling.
Whether you prefer smoked fish, cured meats, or vegetarian options, House of Bagels delivers with creativity and authenticity. The sandwiches are served on freshly baked bagels, which adds a delightful texture and flavor complexity to every order.
Popular Sandwich Options
- Classic Nova Lox: Smoked salmon, cream cheese, tomato, and onion on an everything bagel.
- The Brooklyn Reuben: Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on a rye bagel.
- Egg and Cheese: Fluffy scrambled eggs with melted cheddar on a plain or sesame bagel.
- Veggie Delight: Avocado, cucumber, sprouts, tomato, and hummus on a whole wheat bagel.
| Sandwich | Main Ingredients | Suggested Bagel |
| Classic Nova Lox | Smoked salmon, cream cheese, tomato, onion | Everything |
| Brooklyn Reuben | Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing | Rye |
| Egg and Cheese | Scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese | Plain or Sesame |
| Veggie Delight | Avocado, cucumber, sprouts, tomato, hummus | Whole Wheat |
Breakfast Specials
House of Bagels offers a range of breakfast specials that are perfect for starting the day with energy and flavor. Designed to cater to early risers and brunch enthusiasts alike, these specials combine wholesome ingredients and comforting tastes.
Breakfast platters and combos provide a well-rounded meal that can be customized with various bagels and toppings. The specials often include eggs, smoked fish, fresh vegetables, and a choice of spreads, making them ideal for a balanced breakfast.
These options are highly popular among regulars, thanks to their generous portions and careful preparation. For those in a rush, the grab-and-go breakfast sandwiches offer a quick yet satisfying solution.
- Bagel with Egg and Cheese: A simple, classic option for a quick breakfast.
- The Smoked Salmon Platter: Served with bagels, cream cheese, capers, and onions.
- Breakfast Combo: Two eggs any style, choice of bagel, and a side of fresh fruit.
- Avocado Toast Bagel: Mashed avocado on a toasted bagel, topped with cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of sea salt.
“Breakfast is the most important meal, and at House of Bagels, it’s also the most delicious.” – Regular Customer
Salads and Sides
In addition to their bagels and sandwiches, House of Bagels offers a thoughtfully curated selection of salads and sides. These lighter options are perfect for those seeking a healthier complement to their meal or a refreshing snack on the side.
Salads are made fresh daily, featuring crisp greens, seasonal vegetables, and house-made dressings. They provide a vibrant contrast to the rich flavors of bagels and sandwiches, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The sides menu includes traditional deli favorites as well as unique offerings that reflect the shop’s attention to flavor and quality. These items can be ordered individually or as part of a combo meal.
- Classic Israeli Salad: Diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and parsley with lemon vinaigrette.
- Potato Kugel: A baked potato pudding, crispy on the outside and tender inside.
- Coleslaw: Creamy and tangy, a perfect side for sandwiches.
- Pickle Platter: Assorted pickles including dill, kosher, and spicy varieties.
Salad Nutritional Comparison
| Salad | Calories | Key Ingredients |
| Israeli Salad | 120 | Cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, parsley, lemon vinaigrette |
| Coleslaw | 180 | Cabbage, carrots, creamy dressing |
Bagel Varieties and Baking Process
The signature characteristic of House of Bagels is the diversity and quality of their bagels. Their menu showcases a broad spectrum of bagel types, each crafted with a meticulous baking process that honors traditional methods while embracing innovation.
The baking process begins with a carefully formulated dough that combines premium flour, water, yeast, and a touch of malt. After mixing and kneading, the dough is allowed to rise, developing the perfect texture.
Each bagel is then hand-rolled to ensure an even shape and thickness.
Boiling follows, which is a critical step that creates the bagel’s distinctive chewy crust. The bagels are boiled briefly in water that may be enhanced with barley malt syrup, contributing to their glossy finish and rich flavor.
Finally, the bagels are baked in a stone oven, imparting a golden-brown crust and a tender interior.
- Plain Bagel: Classic and versatile, ideal for any spread or sandwich.
- Everything Bagel: Coated with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, onion, garlic, and salt.
- Cinnamon Raisin Bagel: Sweet and aromatic, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
- Sesame Bagel: Topped with crunchy toasted sesame seeds, adding a nutty flavor.
“Our bagels are crafted with passion and patience, honoring a tradition that’s over a century old.” – Head Baker
Specialty Drinks and Accompaniments
No bagel experience is complete without the perfect beverage to complement it. House of Bagels offers a thoughtfully selected range of specialty drinks, designed to enhance the flavors of their menu items and satisfy diverse tastes.
From robust coffees to refreshing teas and classic fountain drinks, the beverage menu provides options for every mood and occasion. Specialty coffee drinks are brewed fresh daily, utilizing high-quality beans that deliver depth and richness.
For those seeking a cold beverage, freshly squeezed juices and house-made lemonade are popular choices. These drinks add a bright, refreshing contrast to the savory and rich flavors of the bagels and sandwiches.
- Fresh Brewed Coffee: Regular and decaf options available.
- Espresso and Lattes: Specialty espresso-based drinks with optional flavor shots.
- House-made Lemonade: Sweet and tart, made fresh daily.
- Assorted Teas: Black, green, and herbal varieties.
Drink Pairing Suggestions
| Bagel/Sandwich | Recommended Drink |
| Classic Nova Lox | Fresh Brewed Black Coffee |
| Egg and Cheese | House-made Lemonade |
| Veggie Delight | Green Herbal Tea |
| The Brooklyn Reuben | Espresso or Black Tea |
Customer Favorites and Seasonal Specials
Throughout the year, House of Bagels introduces seasonal specials and highlights customer favorites that keep patrons coming back. These offerings reflect the shop’s commitment to innovation while respecting classic bagel shop traditions.
Seasonal specials often incorporate fresh, locally sourced ingredients that reflect the flavors of the season. From spring vegetable spreads to winter-themed bagel toppings, these items provide exciting new ways to enjoy the House of Bagels experience.
Customer favorites are prominently featured, with some menu items becoming iconic staples due to their unique flavor combinations and consistent quality. The balance of new creations and beloved classics creates an ever-evolving menu that appeals to a broad audience.
- Pumpkin Spice Bagel: Available during fall, paired with cinnamon cream cheese.
- Summer Berry Cream Cheese: A sweet spread made with fresh seasonal berries.
- Thanksgiving Sandwich: Turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and mayo on a plain bagel.
- House of Bagels Burger: A popular special with a bagel bun, featuring beef patty and toppings.
“Our seasonal specials are inspired by our community and the freshest ingredients available.” – Menu Chef
Conclusion
House of Bagels in Brooklyn, New York, stands as a true testament to the enduring appeal of the traditional New York bagel shop. Their menu showcases a rich tapestry of flavors, from classic bagels and spreads to inventive sandwiches and seasonal delights.
Each item is carefully crafted with attention to detail, honoring Jewish deli traditions while embracing modern tastes.
Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, the House of Bagels menu offers an experience that is both comforting and exciting. Their dedication to quality ingredients, authentic baking methods, and creative combinations ensures that every visit is memorable.
With a diverse range of options—from hearty sandwiches to light salads and specialty drinks—there is something to satisfy every craving.
Ultimately, House of Bagels is more than just a place to eat; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and culinary passion. It invites everyone to enjoy a slice of Brooklyn’s rich food heritage with every bagel, spread, and sip.
If you find yourself in Brooklyn, a stop at House of Bagels is not just recommended; it’s essential.
