Garden State Bagels

4.3 (541 reviews)

InexpensiveBagels

Closed • 5:30 am - 2:00 pm

Updated 3 months ago

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Garden State Bagels - a ham sandwich on a bun - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

Garden State Bagels - a sandwich on a wooden table - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

Garden State Bagels - two bagels with cream cheese, capers and onions - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Garden State Bagels - a close up of a sandwich - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

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I never leave reviews but I just wanna start out by saying if you are charging $20 for one lox bagel not even face up I better get a pound of salmon and not 3 pieces. Employees were nice but $20 for a bagel, guys what are we doing!

Seasonal pumpkin bagel with cream cheese ($5)

Brenna A.

I've never had a bagel like this! Based on the other reviews, it sounds like I've never had a real east coast bagel... until now. I walked into this no frills shop, greeted my friendly employees, and tried the seasonal pumpkin bagel with cream cheese ($5). They did not play with that cream cheese! The flavor was distinctly pumpkin but not overly sweet like you might find elsewhere. The bagel had a nice crispy outside and soft, fluffy yet moist inside. I would definitely come back and enjoy another flavor or breakfast sandwich (posted for under $9).

Craig W.

Put this bagel shop at the top of your bagel list. The line was long but moved quickly. The bagels come out fresh and hot. They are also as big as Frisbees and trust me, I'm not complaining. They are soft and chewy and delicious. No preservatives, either. They have just about every flavor of bagel imaginable. I am more of a traditionalist. A nice onion bagel with chive cream cheese makes me happy but you do you. The owner was working the register and has charisma for days. I felt like I made a new friend after a 30 second interaction. And here we are, enjoying the bagels 24 hours later, and they are still soft and chewy and delicious. Excellent bagels at reasonable prices and wonderful customer service.

Cinnamon raisin bun with bacon, egg cheese, and cream cheese

Valarie B.

This morning we tried the actual Bagel sandwich!! yum Both employee were full so suggestions of what on our bagel. Too many choices!!!! I love this family oriented shop. Big shout out to Rocio and Hana!!!!

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Marcus V.

2 years ago

I had the bacon egg cheese bagel sandwich and was stoked to get a nice amount of bacon. Most places skimp-out on bacon, not these guys. Thanks GSB! read more

Business owner information

Mike U.

Marcus, thank you for your kind review! We'd never skimp out on the…

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Stacey B.

2 years ago

Always yummy! New owner Mike is great. Shelley and others know my order when I walk in ,which I love. I go to NYC a ton and still love Garden State Encinitas the best!! read more

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Mike U.

Stacey, thank you so much for the kind review! Happy to hear you’ve…

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Evan R.

2 years ago

Great bagels, fresh every morning! Friendly staff and the owner welcomes you like family. Great spot whether you're looking for a quick breakfast sandwich or picking up a dozen bagels for family or the office. read more

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Liz B.

164

2 years ago

Came in Saturday morning sleepy, by the end of the line I didn't even need my coffee because the energy here was so infectious! Oh, forgot about the bagels. They were great too. First time here, will definitely be back. read more

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Nick M.

Elite 19

205

141

3 years ago

Classic east coast bagel shop with friendly staff and good prices. Lots of bagel options. Love the breakfast sandwiches and the Lox.

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Mike U.

Hi Nick! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a review.…

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Sarah C.

2 years ago

Been coming here for at least 20 years. Consistently great bagels, sandwiches, and service. Local staple and great place for a savory, filling and affordable breakfast/lunch. read more

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Mike U.

Sarah, thank you so much for leaving a review! We’re all always so…

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Caitlin K.

Elite 26

247

4 years ago

Great tasting bagels! Veggie toppings are fresh fresh! Eggs and bacon option are decent. Tons of bagels to choose from and the cream cheese is pretty good too! Great place to grab and go to take to the beach! read more

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Mike U.

Thanks Caitlin! We agree, and hope you had fun at the beach!

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Alison L.

2 years ago

As I get older I really appreciate my local businesses. And Garden State is one of our family favorites. My kids love a morning bagel and a hello from the owner on the weekends before their sports. It has become a weekend tradition. And the bagels are the freshest! read more

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Mike U.

Alison, thank you for taking the time to leave a review! An amazing…

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Joshua M.

3 years ago

Great service and the people there are amazing. Definitely the best bagels in all California. Will be coming back love this place. The ambiance is great everyone with a smile and willing to help. (I LOVE MIKE AND HUMBERTO) read more

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Alexandra S.

467

3 years ago

East coast feeling and a damn good bagel! Also the only place I've found in town with challah bread!! The owner is super nice and the service is great - 100% recommend this gem read more

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Brian K.

4 years ago

This place is really not very good! I end up going here from time to time solely out of convenience because it is on a road I'm always traveling on (El Camino Real in Encinitas)...don't expect much. My main gripe is the everything bagel has 90% of the seasoning fall off by the time it gets in your hand. I grew up with a bagel place as a kid that had the best everything bagels with SO MUCH seasoning...I just can't get over that weird thing! read more

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Mike U.

We're sorry to hear this, Brian! We are now under new ownership and…

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Catherine V.

433

3 years ago

Best bagels in all of San Diego! The owner is so friendly and service is fast! There was a long line but we were in and out within five minutes! They have a variety of cream cheese and so many types of bagels. Always a favorite! read more

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Corissa G.

4 years ago

Amazing staff!!!! Please tip them every time you go!!! Best environment to get a pick me up for your morning! 10/10 recommend !!!! read more

Garden State Bagels - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Mike U.

Hi Corissa! Thanks for taking the time to leave us a review. We’re…

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Ann H.

4 years ago

Just WOW!!! Have you ever paid a premium price for a lox bagel at one of those large chain bagel places and felt like they skimped on some of the ingredients? Not here! Obviously I could only eat half and I had a hard time putting my mouth around it but I managed (with lots of cream cheese on my face after!). This was BY FAR the BEST lox bagel I've ever had. Fresh and generous ingredients. Super friendly people here. Be sure to meet the new owner Michael. What a great guy. Ask him to tell you why Einstein Brothers isn't really selling bagels. I had no idea of the difference between a bagel and a bialy. My go to local shop for my favorite indulgence! read more

Garden State Bagels - Open-faced Nova Lox on Sesame Seed Bagel - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Mike U.

Thanks Ann!! So glad to hear you loved it - hope we see you back soon!

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Rosalyn S.

2 years ago

The BEST service we have gotten in a long time. The staff were very welcoming, friendly and generous. The bagels were exceptional!

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Mike U.

Rosalyn, thank you for your review! We’re very proud to make a…

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Aiden C.

2 years ago

The best bagels in the world traveled from Lakeside, California to Encinitas to get a bagel the service is amazing and great people all around I highly recommend eating here at Garden State Bagels read more

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John W.

3 years ago

The bagels are some of the best out there. The service was outstanding, and the prices are fair. This place has been a good to spot for bagels and will continue to be one of my favorites read more

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Kyle K.

303

4 years ago

I love bagels and have been struggling to find a great stop since I moved to UTC. This place is hands down the best bagel I've had in a while. The texture of the bagels is ELITE. It's fluffy yet filling which is a combo you never see. The Cream cheese is this block/whipped hybrid that I absolutely adore. The bagel dog was equally as delicious. We'll be back soon. read more

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Mike U.

Thanks Kyle! So glad to hear you loved it, hope we see you back soon!

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Sannidhi K.

1 year ago

really good service and super fluffy bagels. the man who works the register was so so nice and friendly. def recommend10/10!!

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Mike U.

Thanks so much, Sannidhi! We’re really appreciate your review and…

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Sabrina N.

2 years ago

Amazing bagel spot with amazing customer service will definitely be coming back here. The owner is so friendly and welcoming

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Mike U.

Sabrina, thank you for your kind review! We pride ourselves on both…

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Honest F.

3 years ago

Super good bagels! We've dried several flavors and all were delicious. The staff is friendly and efficient. The shop is small with a few tables to sit at. We've already visited everyday we've been in the area lol. read more

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Mike U.

Hi Honest! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a review.…

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Dana A.

3 years ago

My boyfriend and I are new in town and would always pass Garden State Bagels so we had to give it a shot! Impressed is an understatement. The bagels are fully packed and flavorful. I ordered a Nova Lox and it was so delicious, I don't want to get one from anywhere else. I told the owner Mike we were new in town, and he graciously gave us a few bagels to take home and try. He honestly made my day with how upbeat and nice he was. It put me in a good mood for the rest of the day. i highly recommend and I'll definitely be back :) read more

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Megan L.

2 years ago

Our favorite bagel spot! Fresh, delicious bagels and amazing spreads. We love the white fish. And the management is super nice!! Definitely recommend. read more

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Mike U.

Megan, thank you for taking the time to review! We’re glad you found…

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Adam S.

3 years ago

Have been coming to Garden State for a while and every time it puts a smile on my face. The bagels are delicious and the staff is so friendly. Just the way the local bagel shop should be. Highly recommend stopping by! read more

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Kyra T.

3 years ago

Best bagels in Encinitas! We come here all the time. My kiddos love it too! Everything is fresh, delicious, and the staff is friendly and fun. read more

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Mike U.

Hi Kyra! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a review.…

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J S.

2 years ago

Hands down the best bagels in North County. New owner is super friendly and you can tell he loves what he does. If you are in the encinitas this is a must visit! read more

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Mike U.

J, it’s meeting people like you that makes the job so fun! We’re so…

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Rian S.

2 years ago

Coming in here makes my day 100 times better. Great vibes, even better bagels!!! The people here are so kind and always make me smile.

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Mike U.

Rian, thank you for taking the time to leave a review! We all know…

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DJ S.

Elite 21

110

7 years ago

Good bagels & good prices. Only 3 tables indoors (because the location is tiny) & only a couple of patio tables. Generally long lines between 8:30-11am. The owner of this place opened a location in Carlsbad (Palomar Airport Road) a few months ago, so he put a young guy named Christian in charge. Christian is a good manager. When the owner was around, there was always classic rock playing with people talking about motorcycles and cars, and playing videos of those things racing on TV. The owner was generally either chatting up a customer or complaining to one of the employees about their behavior. Christian tends to play chill electronic/ house music, and I've only seen him talk kindly to other employees, even when there's an issue. Everyone seems calmer having him around. read more

Garden State Bagels - My kid eating his bagel - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Prescott H.

378

3 years ago

Just spent $5 on their "fresh orange juice" which was literally concentrated orange juice from the bottle in a plastic cup.

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Mike U.

Hi Prescott. Sorry to hear you didn’t like our OJ. Thanks for taking…

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Sophia O.

3 years ago

Really, really amazing. Best bagels in all of sd! Really friendly staff with great bagels. I absolutely love the bagel store! The variety of freshly baked bagels is simply amazing. Each bite is a burst of flavor and the textures are spot-on - crispy on the outside and wonderfully chewy on the inside. The friendly staff make every visit a delightful experience. Whether you're in the mood for a classic cream cheese spread or a gourmet sandwich, this place has it all. It's become my go-to spot for a satisfying and delicious breakfast or lunch. Highly recommended! read more

Garden State Bagels - Bagel - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Miles P.

2 years ago

AMAZING BAGEL SPOT!! Super nice guys and great tasting bagels!! Will definitely be visiting again soon, thanks so much!

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Mike U.

Miles, thank you for leaving a review! We’re so happy to hear you…

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Jacqlene M.

2 years ago

Maggie was great, made the best bagel breakfast sandwich. The sandwich was delicious and the service was perfect to start my morning.

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City K.

3 years ago

I go there every day for breakfast best egg sandwiches in town. Great service. The ambience reminds me of New York.

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Bib T.

5 years ago

Pricy. 1 plain 2 cheese. No spreads. $8? Was supposed to be 8.32 but got a 32 cent discount? He gave me discount when he saw me paying cash; maybe didn't want to deal with coin change ? Not worth the price. My husband says we'll continue to get them from Vons; just as good if not better. read more

Garden State Bagels - Most expensive bagels ever. 3 bagels for $8 (plain; no spreads). Not sure where the 32 cent discount came from. - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Lauren G.

2 years ago

We've been trying other places for bagels since the one we liked moved. The bagels at Garden State are in the shape of gigantic bagels, I suppose for sandwiches. I have to slice them in thirds. They have the bland taste and consistency of Wonder Bread. I'm disappointed. Service and ambiance are average. I will continue my search for real bagels. read more

Business owner information

Mike U.

Lauren, thank you for your feedback, and we’re sorry to hear about…

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Marisa J.

2 years ago

This was my first time visiting and Michael the owner was an absolute treasure. His energy radiated positivity and his kindness unforgettable. The bagel with cream cheese + lox was delicious as was the fresh orange juice. I will definitely make a point to stop in anytime I am in the area to start my day with a great bagel and a complimentary side of joy. Thanks Michael! read more

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Mike U.

Marisa, you’re an absolute treasure!! I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed…

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Charles W.

3 years ago

I have stopped by this establishment quite a few times and I have to say not one time have they ever missed. The service the food, and the overall experience is honestly a breath of fresh air! The owner himself even takes the time to greet you with a big warm smile! I stopped and just today and I'm currently running off of about three hours of sleep. So I'm not really up for conversation or interaction at all. But the owner did not fail to greet me with a very warm and humble smile. He didn't treat me like a customer. He treated me like an old friend that he was offering a very good meal to. This place and the vibes that I get from it will always be near and dear to me. If you ever have the chance to stop and grab a bite to eat, I suggest you do so! You will not be disappointed! read more

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Mike U.

Hi Charles! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a review.…

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Zeno R.

107

4 years ago

Love these people and their terrific bagels. I had their salmon, egg and cream cheese bagel for $8.50!!! read more

Garden State Bagels - Bagel w cream cheese, egg and smoked salmon. This place is awesome and has been in business here since 1985. Wow. - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Mike U.

Hi Zeno! Thanks for the love! Hope to see you back soon!

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Chad C.

2 years ago

Love this place. Came by with two 1 year old puppies and the owner was very nice and gave them a free bagel. Had a couple questions on the menu and the staff was very kind and helpful. Food was excellent and very well prepared. 11/10. read more

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Mike U.

Hi Chad, thank you for your kind review! We pride ourselves on making…

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Benjamin H.

2 years ago

My favorite bagel spot of all time. Michael was fantastic and hospitable. Thank you Michael!!

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Mike U.

Benjamin, you’re fantastic!! Thank you for taking the time to leave a…

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Page 5 of 14

191 N El Camino Real
Ste 106
Encinitas, CA 92024
Directions
(760) 942-2435
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
https://gardenstatebagels.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Garden State Bagels open?

Garden State Bagels opens at 5:30 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Garden State Bagels close?

Garden State Bagels closes at 2:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Garden State Bagels take Bitcoin?

No, Garden State Bagels does not take Bitcoin.

Does Garden State Bagels take credit cards?

Yes, Garden State Bagels takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Garden State Bagels have catering options?

Yes, Garden State Bagels does have catering options.

Does Garden State Bagels have a drive thru?

No, Garden State Bagels does not have a drive thru.

Indoor Amenities

Does Garden State Bagels allow dogs?

No, Garden State Bagels does not allow dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Garden State Bagels have bike parking?

Yes, Garden State Bagels has bike parking.

Does Garden State Bagels have parking?

Yes, Garden State Bagels has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Is Garden State Bagels wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Garden State Bagels is wheelchair accessible.

From the Business

Specialties

We have many classic bagels which you can enjoy with the cream cheese or spread of your choice, as well as specialty bagels such as french toast and jalapeno cheddar. We offer a variety of popular breakfast sandwiches, with your choice of meat, cheese, and egg or egg whites. For lunch, grab a pizza bagel, a custom deli bagel sandwich, or the east coast classic Nova Lox (open or closed face!)

History

Established in 1985.

New owners, same bagels! Our bagel recipe is over 65 years old and we have been proudly serving North County for the last 37 years. Voted best bagels more times than ANY other bagel in San Diego, according to the Coast News! This is our oldest location and our new team is looking forward to being your favorite grab-and-go breakfast in town!

Meet the Business Owner: Mike U.

Lifetime lover of bagels, baker in the Jewish tradition, and all around North County enthusiast. Excited to be the purveyor of your favorite local breakfast as the new owner and operator of all three Garden State Bagels locations. When I'm not at the shop, find me out rock climbing, camping, or gardening.

More Info

Health Score

Ask the Community - Garden State Bagels

Do you have bialys? Hope so!!?

Hi Gail! Thanks so much for asking - yes we do have bialys, made fresh every day. We hope you’ll come in and say hi and give them a try!

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Do you have Taylor ham / pork roll,?

Hi Joel! Yes, we do! Hope to see you in soon!… Read more

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How are the bialey's? True to East Coast? Miss them.

Not east coast. Service awful, bagels not good and way over priced. Never again, many other choices.

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Review Highlights - Garden State Bagels

“If you're looking for a bagel anywhere in North County this place is absolutely worth the drive.”

Mentioned in 17 reviews

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Came here for a quick breakfast with a small group and ordered the dozen bagels with regular and…read moreveggie cream cheese. Loved the everything bagel. Lots of flavor and paired well with both cream cheeses. The service was very good. Quick to get our food and niche bagel shop ambiance.

Woah! Today I had a bialy for the first time at the recommendation of the staff, DELICIOUS!…read more The service is stellar, espresso is top notch and bagels exceed the mark every time. Ordered an Americano (my usual) and it was so velvety, rich, and smooth. Cannot wait to get another tomorrow

Photos

Inside

Cheddar jalapeno with Veggie Cream Cheese

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Lox and Bagel with a Dr Brown's cream soda.

Einstein Bros. Bagels

They were professional. Busy, but messed up my mom's drink and it was a to go order from the night…read morebefore. They fixed it, but it took a while and the girl working the register seemed disappointed at me for saying it did not taste like tea, but coffee. She said she made the drink herself and would remake it, but didn't until she helped 6 other customers in line after me. I think they must be understaffed. Otherwise, they did a phenomenal job. I had the maple French toast bagel with butter, my mom got the green chile bagel with garden veggie smear and my sister got an everything bagel with chive smear. The fruity pop was good and so was the egg cookie. I have never had a cookie taste so good in my life. I think about it til this day. I would come back. Seems like a one off thing. The customers in the area seemed happy and like regulars.

happy hour deal is amazing! $5.99 for bagel and a drink all day, can't beat it. i had low…read moreexpectations for their new mocktails and was pleasantly surprised! the dragonfruit lemon drop is great, i want to go back just for the drink bagels are always warm with perfect flavor + cream cheese, but often they put wayyy too much cream cheese so it spills all over the place. store is clean, service is quick, staff are friendly - no clue why this location has 2 stars!

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Bruegger's Bagels

3.3

(147 reviews)

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Wife wanted a bagel for her birthday and she picked up her free Starbucks coffee next door. It was…read moreempty inside and they had a rule about not hanging out inside too long which I thought was interesting. There is a soda fountain so maybe that is why? They want you to eat and leave. Not work there all day like a Starbucks. Color tones inside are black and brown. Don't know if that is helpful. Ordered some bagel sandwiches and they were steaming hot which is fun on a rainy & cold day. I love the everything bagel and I think they put a lil salt in it which makes it even more delectable. Selected bacon as my meat and it was fine. Felt microwaved, but what do you expect? Wife ordered the farmhouse and they sold out of the hash brown bagel so she opted for the cheese bagel. Wife was happy and that's all a husband can ask for.

The bagels are always good. The service is quick with no worries. The location is clean and well…read morerun.

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Gordy's Bakery

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I went out of my way to check out Gordy's Bakery, and it totally lived up to the local hype. It's…read moresuper low-key and no-frills, but that's part of the charm. I tried the gluten free ABC plonk (had to, after hearing about it), and now I get it...soft, buttery, just the right amount of sweetness. Simple, but really, really good. Every bite was a delight. Also, have to mention Nana behind the counter..so warm and welcoming, she really made the whole experience feel personal. Nothing fancy here, just solid baked goods and genuinely kind service. Definitely a spot I'd come back to. And oh yes, the coffee was excellent!

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Pastry counter

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Garden State Bagels

3.9

(224 reviews)

6.1 mi

Hands down the best bagel shop in San Diego county and North County. Nothing compares to New York…read moreCity bagels and this place does! My family is from Jersey and I frequent a lot and this place is spot on in comparison to bagel shops on the east coast. Also what makes this place great is Esther. She's amazing I don't know how she remembers everyone's name and orders but she does. She's already telling me my order as I walk in. She really solidifies the experience. If customer service was a definition Ester is the epitome of it. I even overheard a conversation where she was talking about the owners and her admiration for the business and she says she treats it like it's her own! I don't go anywhere else but here.

Very much enjoy the service, everyone is so kind, quality of the bagels are always consistently…read morefresh, and I'm always able to get to work on time due to their timeliness!

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The entrance to The Best Homemade Bagels in Southern California

Prager Brothers Artisan Bread

4.4

(190 reviews)

2.0 mi

This little bakery is located in downtown Encinitas. Parking is rough along the main drag but is…read morefree and plentiful at the Coaster station lot nearby. Although I am more familiar with their location in Carlsbad, their baked goods appear to be of the same high quality here. We tried a chocolate croissant that was light, airy, and incredibly fresh and delicious. No seating inside or out but don't let that stop you from visiting this very good bakery. They don't have a huge selection but quality over quantity.

My friends recommended me this location of Prager Brothers, which was located in a cute…read moredowntown-like area. The bakery itself had a cozy and welcoming vibe, and everything in the display case on a Monday morning looked amazing. They also offered some coffee on the side, which was a nice treat in addition to their pastries. I tried their morning bun and it was great! The bun was perfectly flaky on the outside and soft on the inside, with a light sugar coating that wasn't too sweet. While there was no additional flavoring to the bun (like some citrus fruit, for example), I enjoyed the plain texture of the bun & appreciated the quality of the ingredients. The workers were really friendly and great service; I would love to come back to try one of their other aesthetic pastries!

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Caprese sandwich

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Surfdog's Java Hut

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Great neighborhood spot. People seem to know each other and have their share of regulars. I like…read morethat it's away from the major crowds down the 101. I loved my matcha and my friend enjoyed her latte. They have other items on the menu like smoothies, breakfast stuff, bowls and lunch items but I didn't eat. I would come back.

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Local on croissant

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Chunky Monkey

Coffee Coffee

Such an adorable shop! Very light and bright, plenty of indoor and outdoor seating to catch up with…read morefriends or work/study. The menu includes classic coffee options for the purist and some specialty drinks for the adventurous. I ultimately went with the salted honey vanilla latte and it was HEAVENLY! The perfect balance of coffee, sweetness, honey and vanilla flavor, truly one of the better cups of coffee I've had in a very long time. They also had a good selection of pastries and by mid morning, several sold out, so they just be pretty good! And a good selection of grab and go breakfast food also rounded out the menu. Lastly the staff were nice! Very friendly and welcoming! I visit Encinitas 4-5 times a year and this will definitely be on my rotation of coffee houses to stop at now!

Stop by after a nice lunch a couple of blocks over at Atelier Manna. This shopbhas the cutest…read morepatio shaded by trees and nice interior space, clean and simple. The coffee is good and strong but neither my partner or I could taste the rosemary or orange in the Rosemary Orange Cold brew, all we tasted was strong coffee. Staff is feiendly and service is quick.

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Sausage burrito $4.50

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Local reads and lots of people working.

Ascend Coffee Roasters

Was out of the area for awhile but once I came back I came over to Ascend. Love their unique…read morepastries and the coffee is still delicious! Seems like more people have found it! Hope it continues to be successful. Bring back to "toaster strudel". I think it was called puff pastry but it was so good! Right now they have a chai spiced cinnamon roll that is delicious. Lemon muffin I love and compliments their drinks.

Very nice service…read more Overall cute shop. Getting the brown sugar macchiato which had a good coffee flavor tasted like 200% sugar. Expecting sweet just not that sweet.

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Pastries

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VG Donut & Bakery

This is not just a donut shop. This is a legacy…read more My husband grew up riding his bike all the way from Del Mar as a kid, risking life, limb, and probably traffic laws, just for a hot glazed chocolate donut. That kind of dedication tells you everything you need to know about these donuts. Decades later, our cousins drive them 3 hours to Los Angeles like precious cargo for the family to enjoy when they come to visit. A donut. 3 hours in a car. Still incredible. Some things are just built different. Our cousins are hero's! Only one complaint, they are not open late, which is truly a crime against everyone with late night munchies and poor decision making skills. The world needs VG Donuts at midnight. Someone please make this happen. We will be back. My husband's inner 10 year old on a bike absolutely demands it.

Food: 7/10 Service: 8/10…read moreAmbiance: 6/10 Maybe I was expecting too much because my friends talked so highly of this place. It was ok haha Just a regular donut. I was excited for their maple, but it was wayyyyyy too sweet for me. But good service

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My son's first birthday cake! Loved every bite!

The design we got

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Single Layer Cakes wedding cake

Biergarden Encinitas

If I could give 20 stars, I would! The Bier Garden in Encinitas has never disappointed me. Every…read moredish I've tried has been amazing. The cornbread is hands-down the best and a must-order every single visit! So far I've had the Poke N Chips, BG Bones, and grilled cheese with tomato soup, and every single item has been flavorful, fresh, and perfectly prepared. It's rare to find a place where everything on the menu is consistently this good. The atmosphere is always great, the food is outstanding, and it's become one of my favorite spots in Encinitas. Whether you're stopping by for drinks, lunch, or dinner, you really can't go wrong. Highly recommend I'll definitely be back for more cornbread!

Came for a leisurely Sunday lunch and will definitely come again!…read more Thanks to Jessica and team for an amazing experience. We had a diverse mix of people across multiple age groups at our table and she was nothing short of fantastic. Questions were answered, recommendations were given, and drinks were never empty. The food matched Jessica's attentiveness. Our crew's meal ranged from the poke bowl to the loaded Cardiff Crack fries (a must, especially for tourists) to kids eats. Everything came out perfect.

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Cardiff Crack Steak Sandwich was delicious.

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CARiN de RiA

My wife and I absolutely love this spot! We first discovered it during a beach trip to Encinitas…read moreback in January 2026, and we've already been back four times. The space is small, quaint, and perfectly situated near the beach. The service is consistently fantastic, and we've always been able to find street parking easily. As for the food, everything we've tried has been incredible--the Kare Kare, garlic rice, lechon, and their halo halo are all absolutely delicious. If you're in the area, this place is a must-try!

What a pleasant discovery. My husband found this spot. We ordered their family feast and it was a…read moreperfect way to taste quite a bit of items on the menu. We ordered the bbq chicken, pork adobo, pork Sinigang, and bistek. All the meat was sooo tender and flavorful. The pancit and garlic fried rice was amazing as well, but my overall fave was the dessert. The leche flan really won me over. Other than that, really cute location. Try to get the open window. The staff was on it. Super attentive and friendly. Bathroom was cleanly. & Paying was super easy. Parking was fairly easy, or we were just lucky. Went on a Saturday evening.... Thank you for a lovely experience.

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Dining area

Sizzling Lechon Sisig

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Inside restaurant

Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream

Wow--what an overwhelming amount of ice cream choices! This place seriously has everything,…read moreincluding a bakery and coffee, so it's a great one-stop spot. Service was pretty quick, which I appreciated. They also offer gluten-free cookies and other baked goods, which is a nice bonus. That said, the gluten-free cookie on its own was pretty bland--but I could see it being much better paired with ice cream. One thing to note: they don't really offer a kids size, and when I asked for smaller portions, they said it would still be charged as a regular--so parents of little ones, just a heads up! The ambiance wasn't super inviting--more of a "grab your treat and go" vibe--but with its prime location near the beach, it's easy to see why it stays busy. Overall, still worth checking out!

Nothing like a frozen treat on a Sunday afternoon with friends after a performance. This was ice…read morecream shop was the second closest to the venue. We were the only ones with the brilliant idea to get some scoop action. Lots of flavors to choose from, definitely something for everyone. We decided to get single scoops in waffle cones: Butter Pecan, Vanilla Caramel + Brownie and Coffee with Chocolate Chunks. I took mine and popped into the bakery next door. It definitely had the homemade ice cream parlor taste. We were all pleased with our selections. It's a generous scoop too! Staff was friendly and shared a little bit about the other location. We will definitely have to swing by the downtown location because believe it or not they have more flavors. There were a few tables outside to encourage staying and enjoying. No designated parking but we lucked out and snag a street spot within a short walking distance. Great value and look forward to trying the other flavors!

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Graham Central Station presented by Cannon

Cookies & Cream

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Butter cookies

Sip-N-Sea: Coffee + Açaí

I stopped by with my pup Waffles, who was very happy about his pup cup, and I tried the seasonal…read moreBanana Cream drink. It was absolutely delicious creamy, flavorful, and not overly sweet. The coastal vibe, friendly staff, and dog-friendly atmosphere make this one of my favorite spots to grab a coffee and enjoy a slow morning. Waffles gives it two paws up, and I'll definitely be back for another Banana Cream before the season ends!

5/5. Great latte and really good vibes at Sip-N-Sea Encinitas. Solid spot, I'd come back.read more

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Matcha milk tea

Leucadia Donut Shoppe

Best donuts in Encinitas, always gotta show up early in the morning because they sell out by like…read more2pm. Run by a sweet family been there for more than 20 years and always make it fresh in the morning

I walk past the spot frequently when walking the dog, and every time I'm in the mood for a donut,…read morethey're either closed or too crowded. I was finally able to make it in and the service was good. I of course after ordering realized I didn't have my wallet, but thankfully they accepted Venmo. The donuts were soft, melt in your mouth delicious. Overall, a good donut spot and I now know why they are always busy.

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Wrong cup, right. Donut! Best!

Maple bar, chocolate glazed, original glazed, bear claw, and blueberry buttermilk

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Entrance

Pastaria Vivi

4.5

(59 reviews)

0.2 mi

The focaccia is amazing. The meatball was delightful with a great combination of flavors. The sauce…read morewas splendid and perfect with the focaccia. We didn't get to taste the fresh pasta but it looked perfect. Highly recommend!!!!

We had two pasta dishes. The pasta was good but they are very very small portions - five medium…read moreravioli for $15.99.

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The area. The atmosphere

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Mochichis

4.9

(113 reviews)

0.2 mi

Locally owned & operated

Women-owned & operated

We love the Elite event so much I drove back to Encinitas again the following weekend to pick up a…read moredozen for my son and his friends to snack on during their practice for BroAM. The staff has always been great, super nice and welcoming as soon as you walk through that front door! All donuts are good but so far my favorite favorite favorite have been the xhurro, creme brulee, and that mochi hole filled with creamy goodness (tastes like whipped cream). The donuts are light and fluffy and have a bit of a chew. Love the bright colors and decor throughout the store and the fact that you can see your donuts through the display. I had a strawberry boba tea as well, it was good but not really my favorite type of drink (glad I tired it). Love that the owners are SDSU alum and the fact that they always support the local community.

First off, I love the beaver graphic for Mochichis, its great!…read moreThe mochi donuts are very unique, and I really enjoy them. The nice thing about these donuts is that they are really light in mouthfeel. While I don't have donuts that often, my go to is usually a cake donut, cake donuts are just so dense though, and 'normal' donuts, while airy don't give you that nice bite. These donuts have a little bit of crunch on the outside, just a tad, then chewy center. I think that all the donuts are the same, just topped differently, I did not see anything different other than the Mochi Ball, which they have been out of the past few times I have visited. Mochichis, has free parking in the center parking lot, and normally when you walk in, you are greeted (not my last visit), but normally. Every time other than this last time, you are sort of killed with kindness, not that the worker was unpleasant. It is small inside, but there are around 5 tables that you can sit out, I mean most donut places are small and/or have no seating at all. Unique donuts, and I love that the uniqueness is not just adding 50 toppings to make it that way.

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Try our soft serve ice cream donut!

Mangonada

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Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

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38 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Kelly J.

2 years ago

If you're ever in Encinitas and find yourself craving an authentic bagel experience, look no further than Garden State Bagels. This charming gem not only serves up some of the best bagels in town, but it's also run by an owner who genuinely cares about every aspect of the business and customer experience. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the passion and dedication of its owner and team. The bagels here are a standout--fresh, perfectly chewy, and available in a variety of classic and inventive flavors. Whether you're in the mood for something traditional or something a bit more adventurous, Garden State Bagels has you covered. The toppings and spreads are equally impressive, and you can tell that quality ingredients are a top priority. What really sets this place apart, though, is the owner. His enthusiasm for bagels is infectious, and his dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in every interaction. It's clear that he is deeply invested in both their product and their community. In addition to the fantastic bagels and the welcoming atmosphere, the overall service is impeccable. The team is friendly, attentive, and efficient, making each visit a pleasant experience. Garden State Bagels isn't just a spot for a delicious breakfast or lunch--it's a place where you can experience the heart and soul of a small business that truly cares about its customers. If you're in the Encinitas area, make sure to stop by and see for yourself why this place is such a local favorite. read more

Toni H.

12 years ago

I ordered a BLT bagel 3/16/14. I ordered over the phone and asked to add avo and onions. Got to GS paid for my order, got back to work, and discovered that my BLT had no "L"...of all things it was actually missing the lettuce. I immediately called and spoke with a young lady whom started laughing at me when I explained what had happened. She passed me over to the owner Steve Amster, whom subsequently had rang me out earlier. I explained what happened, and was then very rudely asked by the owner "that's all its missing is the lettuce? Well then okay...I'll send you over some lettuce." He knows that I work at a local business that he patronizes and I was extremely appalled that he would not only be so rude,but also not even attempt to offer a correct order despite that fact that I was charged extra for ONIONS...who does that? Steve in fact did actually have one of his punk employees come over on a skateboard to deliver a bag of lettuce. I truly don't know what to say other that the customer service SUCKS at Garden State Bagel and it starts at the top with owner Steve Amster all the way down to the rude staff that answer the phone. read more

Sabrina L.

1 year ago

If you're on the hunt for the perfect bagel in Southern California, look no further--this place nails it. And that says a lot because I was born and raised in NYC. I went with the classic sesame bagel with scallion cream cheese with the east coast classic nova lox. Seriously rivals Zabar's and Barney Greengrass! The vibe as the kids say, is such a bonus. Warm, fast service, and a laid-back space that feels more like a neighborhood hang than a trendy chain. That said, they do have two other locations, and they're always hopping as well. But here's what really sets it apart: the owner, Michael. He's genuinely kind and incredibly generous, always making sure every customer is taken care of. It's that kind of hospitality that makes a place unforgettable. Whether you're fueling up before hitting the beach or just craving a real-deal New York bagel, this place delivers. Go early--they sell out fast. Highly recommend! read more

Shawn F.

14 years ago

By far the best bagels in San Diego. I think they opened up a new location in Carlsbad after the outlets refused to renew their lease. This one is the original location though. The owner Steve (used to have long hair) learned (he will tell you) how to make bagels from I think he says grandmother and told me once the difference in cooking styles of the chains. You can totally tell the difference, if you go to the chains and like them which believe me the chain named after the scientist has good stuff, but this blows even them away. The quality of bagels iis the same as the difference between going to a butcher and getting the freshest of fresh meats, and going to a grocery store and getting processed meat from the deli. Both are good, but ones fantastic. read more

Steve C.

7 months ago

A++++++++++ Mike and his team create the best bagels anywhere, hand down! Being a NY transplant myself to Encinitas nearly 20 years ago, these bagels have always been my "go to" because they are the more authentic to the NY bagels I grew up with! Let me also add that Mike's a super nice guy to boot, always helpful with excellent recommendations, from the incredible array of bagels, toppings, flavors, different sandwiches, french toast, etc. Plus the prices are very reasonable and service is always top notch! I highly recommend you pay one of the 3 locations a visit and taste what you've been missing! Be warned... you might not LEAVE! PS You HAVE to try the lox! It's always incredibly fresh! read more

Zeffen H.

1 year ago

Garden State Bagels is an absolute gem! Their bagels are always fresh, perfectly chewy, and have that authentic New York-style flavor. The variety is impressive--from classic plain and everything to unique specialty options. Their breakfast sandwiches are stacked and delicious, and the coffee pairs perfectly with any order. Service is fast and friendly, even during busy mornings, and the atmosphere feels welcoming and local. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or sitting down with friends, it's consistently a great experience. You can taste the quality in every bite. Garden State Bagels definitely earns a solid five stars from me! read more

Mark A.

11 years ago

Been enjoying the bagels here since they opened many years ago. Always been a positive experience and the price is in line with other similar restaurants. The Nova (lox) sandwich is my favorite and has been consistent for all these years. The place get remodeled every few years and is always kept up with the times. Friendly staff and super clean. I think it is the best bagel shop in the county and I think you will agree as well. read more

Snoopi D.

14 years ago

HORRIBLE service. Rude actually. They always get my order wrong. They sell stale fruit cups. The owner should clean up the place, fire the rude mexican employees and start over. Or go back east. There are much better, friendlier bagel shops in town. I dunno how this place stays in business. Never going back again. If I do and if they are rude, I will get right back in their face. read more

Kayla L.

642

1 year ago

Absolutely love Golden State Bagels! The quality of the bagels is top-notch, and there's such a wide variety to choose from. What really stands out, though, is the amazing customer service. The staff is always so friendly and welcoming, which makes every visit feel special. They truly go above and beyond, and it's why I keep coming back! Highly recommend! read more

jason c.

1 month ago

Garden State Bagels absolutely delivers. The bagels are fresh, perfectly chewy, and packed with flavor. The breakfast sandwiches are top-notch, and the staff is always friendly and welcoming. You can tell they care about quality and consistency. Easily one of the best spots around for a great breakfast or quick lunch. Highly recommend! read more

Stephen M.

1 year ago

This little place is the real deal! Fresh delicious bagels in a great variety with every smear you'd like. Friendly service from young people and the owner is a hoot. I really like that guy. I ate there today so I thought I'd leave a review. Perfect Schmear With jalapeños on a seedy stick lightly toasted. read more

Sally S.

9 years ago

ewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww. they get their lox out of a package. so gross. horrible quality food. owner is unattractive and smells very weird. read more

Lynn G.

5 months ago

Amazing food and even better service. The bacon egg and cheese hit the spot, haven't had a better one around here. Michael at the front counter is a true customer service professional and made my first visit very memorable. Will definitely be back. read more

Kimberly Q.

8 months ago

Came across this shop while driving in the area and we were very pleased with the bagels. The breakfast bagels were so yummy and fresh. The customer service was great, very friendly and helpful. Will definitely be coming back! read more

Anna G.

2 years ago

Has always been my favorite bagel shop. Went today to the Encinitas location and they are gone. Will try another location but very sad they are not here. Hopefully they will open at a different Encinitas spot. read more

Elfie T.

2 years ago

BEST PLACE EVER! shiz students bagel place of choice. deadass when I look to the western sky I see garden state bagels. women want me bagels fear me FOREVER. and that's on LCC high school read more

Lainie R.

3 years ago

Garden state Bagels had great food and even better service! 10/10 recommend. The owner was so welcoming and made my morning much more entertaining. Fun authentic feel! read more

Alexis G.

3 years ago

Delicious bagels and good food, staff is absolutely amazing and so kind, they let us know doordash pickup is unnecessarily more expensive so call in orders ! read more

Luca M.

2 years ago

absolutely best bagels in encinitas, great service always polite and helpful, would never go any where else for bagels bacon egg and cheese #1 read more

Mia C.

2 years ago

The service at Garden State is amazing and the bagels are on point! Everyone there is so kind and I will DEFINITELY be going back!

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38 Garden State Bagels reviews that are not currently recommended

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38 reviews that are not currently recommended

Garden State Bagels - bagels - Updated July 2026

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