As experienced bagel connoisseurs (one Jew and one daily bagel consumer), we embarked on a journey to find the best bagel in DC. Despite Dr. Canedo’s certainty that “DC doesn’t have good bagels,” we were determined to prove him wrong. With many bagel establishments to choose from, we narrowed it down to five with the help of our loyal followers (go follow @thejacksonreedbeacon). To maintain accurate results, we ordered a toasted everything bagel with plain cream cheese cut into thirds at every stop.
- Call Your Mother: 5/10 ($5.23)
Before the Call Your Mother fangirls start hating, we want to establish that this is simply about the bagels themselves (not the sandwiches, or the store as a whole). On top of the fact that it broke the bank, it was simply flavorless. With eyes closed, it may have been mistaken for a slightly textured plain bagel. If you are looking for a sandwich, this is the place to go, but for your daily dozen, skip the trip and go to our #1.
- Bullfrog: 6/10 ($4.35)
Bullfrog Bagels’ proximity to Jackson-Reed made this a promising option, but after we had to stand on a demoralizing stool to order, our hopes began to fall. While we were very satisfied with the toasting, the chewiness was mildly unsettling and the sesame flavor was overwhelming. If we had wanted a sesame bagel, we would have ordered it. For those of us who like to eat our bagels open-faced, we were disappointed in the lack of seasoning on the bottom half of the bagel.
- Baked by Yael: 7.5/10 ($3.35)
We walked into Baked by Yael feeling empowered after our rockstar parking spot right across from the zoo. While initially impressed by the reasonable price, we must note that this bagel was smaller than average. The bagel was very fresh and flavorful, but once again, the bottom was barren of any seasoning. As Baked by Yael is known for their cake pops, we could not help but order one. We were humbled when the faceless panda cake pop (with cheerio ears) was a whopping $6.20.
- Bethesda: 9.5/10 ($4.08)
With Lily having tried every Bethesda Bagel flavor, and Simone previously being a hater, this was a pivotal trip. The bagel was large and fluffy, with a nice salty and garlic-y flavor. Simone was successfully converted to a Bethesda Bagel fan.
- Bagels Etc.: 10/10 ($3.00)
Get your cash ready, because Bagels Etc. is the place to go. A soft and fluffy bagel with delicious salty seasoning ample throughout; Bagels Etc. took the win. And at three dollars flat, it was our cheapest option! Even Lily was willing to relinquish her love for Bethesda Bagels for the champion: Bagels Etc. •
