Bagels Etc

Been coming to these lovely ladies for years and years, and for me it’s still the most legit bodega style breakfast spot in DC. Bagel sandwiches, self serve coffee pots, individually wrapped fresh pastries- not a trendy new place but it’s quick and tasty and well priced. Cash only but they have the atm in the front!

Best bagel in DC. They’re fresh, fluffy, perfectly chewy… absolute perfection. The everything has salt mixed in w the seeds, which to me is key to an everything bagel. They are cash only, so come prepared, but with that comes insanely low prices for DC. $3 flat for a bagel w plain cream cheese, $4 for flavored cream cheese! Line gets a bit long on weekend mornings, but moves quickly - they have their system very streamlined.

FINALLY - a DC bagel spot worth your time and money! Despite the hype, Bagels Etc. exceeds all expectations. Come, stand in line, and enjoy a fresh and well-priced bagel. Not sure how they make ends meet, but the prices are amazing. You will not be disappointed. Bring cash (there’s an ATM for those who don’t)! Seating is limited and you’ll have to wait, but the line flies and these bagels are incredible. I got their Lox, and I think it’d rival any NJ/NY bagel. Although I went on a busy Saturday, there was plenty of seating in the back.

It may look like a tiny, humble, hole-in-the-wall store from the outside, but Bagels Etc. is truly worthy of being known as one of DC's best bagel shops. It's one of those hidden gems that only DC locals know about, with their inconspicuous storefront, vague name printed in the most standard of fonts, and cash only policy. But taking a leap of faith and stepping inside is 100% worth it. Their bagels are baked to absolute perfection, with the most incredible slightly crunchy outer crust and beautifully spongy, chewy interior. They have all of the classic flavors you could ever ask for, whether you're looking for a savory or sweet option, as well as a few unique choices like their spinach bagel (it sounds weird but I promise you, it's incredible). As far as toppings and spreads go, they have all the classic cream cheeses and a few veggie toppings for my vegan and lactose intolerant friends, as well as a series of sandwiches that you can try. I personally love topping a savory bagel with avocado and veggies and then grabbing a little tin of their hot sauce...it's such a perfect way to start the morning! The bagels are a little bit smaller than your average bagel shop bagel, so if you prefer a larger breakfast in the morning, I would definitely go for two (or, as weird as it is, one and a half bagels...maybe come with a friend and order three so that each of you can have one and a half?). There isn't a ton of seating available inside the shop -- just a couple of small tables by the kitchen, one by the front counter, and then a few right outside the front door -- so be prepared to have to take your order to go. I usually pass by this spot on my way to work, so it's the perfect place to stop for a mid-week pick-me-up.

I’d been craving a bagel for a couple days so I stopped in to grab one. I wasn’t too sure where I was supposed to place my order but one of the ladies behind the counter asked me what I wanted after a few minutes if me standing around looking lost. My bagel came out pretty fast. I wish I had asked for it to be toasted but it had a great texture and a good amount of cream cheese and capers. If you don’t have cash there is an atm inside the store.