Garden State Bagels

4.3 (537 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

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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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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!!!!

Gabi M.

Stopped into this bagel shop this morning before hitting the road back to Phoenix. I called it out to my husband because he is from New Jersey and we are always looking for bagels as great as the ones there... This place delivered! We had a sesame bagel with lox cream cheese (husband), toasted plain buttered bagel (kids), and a wheat bagel nova lox sandwich - closed face (me). We also grabbed some black and white cookies (made in NJ), bottled drinks and coffee... Service was a tad rushed but that's likely because they are used to working fast to accommodate the many hungry people coming in and out... As we were leaving, I'm pretty sure that Mike U, the local owner / operator walked by and thanked us for our business. You don't see that all of the time! Food was delicious albeit a bit heavy handed with the cream cheese and butter. No special milk for coffee, but they've got the basics down! If you are in the area seeking some quality bagels, this place is it!

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Lisa A.

405

1 year ago

I saw on Yelp that they had pork roll. As a Jersey Girl I thought let's go! For a spot called "The Garden State", the owner should know better. As soon as I saw the girl pull out a pre-made egg and pork roll, and stick it in the microwave, I knew that this was going to be a giant disappointment, and it was! The pork roll itself was tasteless and had a funky color to it. This was a one and done spot. read more

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Mike U.

Lisa, we really appreciate your coming in. We’re sorry to hear that…

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Jessica C.

1 year ago

Best bagels in town!! Love stopping in here on the weekends. The staff is very friendly, they make you feel like family.

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Mike U.

We love to hear that, Jessica! We hope you come back in very soon!

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Lauren M.

1 year ago

Came in on a Sunday Morning the food was awesome and the service was so amazing! I think it was the owner but he was so friendly with all the customers especially little kids. It was our first time there but we will for sure be going back frequently. 10/10 would recommend read more

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Mike U.

Lauren, we’re so glad you came in! Thank you for your business and…

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Taylor O.

7 months ago

The service is incredible the staff is wonderful and treats you like family. The bagel had the perfect ratio of cream cheese to bagel and it fufills all my corner bagel shop dreams. read more

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Teresa S.

Elite 26

428

1532

3861

3 years ago

I was in the area and had a taste for some bagels for breakfast. Yelp led me to this spot that had amazing reviews. When I arrived, a couple eating breakfast at one of the few tables on site and watching TV. Most customers were ordering to go. The store was clean and organized. Mike was very sweet and welcomed me as soon as I walked in. I loved his energy, and he told me he was a former New Yorker, so that had to be it, lol. I wanted to try a unique bagel since there were a bunch of different options. I chose the jalapeno and cheese bagel with a fried egg. The first bite I was like umm, this is delicious. Honey, by the 2nd bite, I was drinking my water and taking those jalapenos off. LOL The bagel was still delicious with the cheese on top. I also had a hot tea that I was able to make own my own. Overall, this is a great spot for some breakfast and/or lunch. Customer service was excellent! read more

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Mike U.

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

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Sophie H.

Elite 23

135

147

2 years ago

The service here is impeccable!!! Michael is great! This was my first time here staff is so friendly and kind! I haven't even tried my bagel yet! I had to write how great they were here. I will be making an effort to stop here on my way to seeing my family. read more

Garden State Bagels - Onion bagel toasted - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

Garden State Bagels - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Mike U.

Sophie, wow! It means so much to me and all of us here you had such a…

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Jeffrey K.

1 year ago

Food, service, ambiance; all great! You'd be hard-pressed to find a better bagel in San Diego!

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Mike U.

Hi Jeffrey! Thank you so much for taking the time to review us - we…

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Jasmine A.

1 year ago

This place was delicious! I happened to be in the area and wanted to try something new and definitely did not disappoint. Would definitely recommend! read more

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Mike U.

Thank you so much Jasmine! We hope to see you again very soon!

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Tara W.

8 months ago

Okay WOW! 10/10 the energy by all of the employees was so contagious! We went in for some bagels this morning, and they had a bagel of the month "pumpkin" and I asked the employee if it was super strong pumpkin or a lighter taste and he grabbed one from the case and let me try it before we got it. That was the first thing and then we were checking out and the guy checking us out asked us to get an 8oz cream cheese from the case specifically strawberry with the sweet bagel chips. And oh my gosh, amazing!!! A must try if you are in the Encinita area! read more

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Mike U.

Thank you so much, Tara! We are so glad to hear how much you liked…

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Ryan H.

2 years ago

On my first adventure in Encinitas I was exploring around town looking for a quality meal. Nothing quite hits like a bagel. From the moment I walked in the door of this establishment I was greeted by probably the most joyful man I'd ever met, what a welcome to the city of Encinitas. This man, Mike, created an atmosphere that felt like home. He proceed to treat every new patron with the same vigor and respect he had shown me. Give that man a raise, unless he's the owner. Then he needs to expand. Not to mention that the bagels were TOP tier and my girlfriend, having moved from New York, praises them as being the best bagels in San Diego. Honestly I don't know if I can wake up again without one of these bagels in my mouth. Great stuff read more

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Mike U.

Ryan, you’re too kind! I am the owner, and I’ve got to say it’s the…

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Chris O.

1 year ago

The absolute best bagels!! This very friendly bagel spot really knows how to make the perfect "Everything" - and the texture - nice crunch on the outside with a soft interior that still offers the right chewy consistency. I live in Riverside, CA but always stop at Garden State when I'm in Encinitas. read more

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Mike U.

Thanks Chris! We really appreciate your business and hope you stop by…

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Kira S.

9 months ago

Amazing service the workers are very nice and the bagels are fresh and great. If you are in the Encinitas area definitely stop by.

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Mike U.

Thanks so much for coming in, Kira! We love to hear from our…

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Alexis De La Rosa ..

9 months ago

Was craving 2 bagels this morning. Walked in, it looked busy and poppin! Smelled delicious. When we went to pay the owner gave us our bagels for free. Such a nice guy, very friendly environment. read more

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Mike U.

Thanks for stopping by, Alexis! We’re so glad you liked the bagels…

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Karley M.

11 months ago

amazing bagels. crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. lox spread is fresh. service was lovely

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Mike U.

Karley, thank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review.…

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Andrea M.

9 months ago

Hands down the best bagels and bagel sandwiches I've ever had!!! Even my husband who is a harsh critic, raved about these bagels! Staff are super quick and friendly! read more

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Mike U.

Hi Andrea! We absolutely love to hear that our bagels met the…

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Katherine C.

2 years ago

The bagels here are delicious. Let me start by saying that. Tad bit overpriced but good enough for me to come back here a time or many. Unfortunately, the staff here are very unfriendly. I've had multiple instances when my order is made incorrectly and when I say something I'm treated like the problem. Very unsure if I'll be coming back again. read more

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Mike U.

Katherine, thank you for taking the time to leave a review, and I’m…

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CeCe L.

10 months ago

BEST bagel in Encinitas. The veggie bagel was the perfect refreshing, nourishing, tasty bagel. The owner, Michael, is so passionate and welcoming - I can tell he loves the store and all who come in to enjoy. I'll never go anywhere else for a bagel!!! read more

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Mike U.

We love to hear that, CeCe! Thank you for your kind words. We’re so…

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Sharon M.

1 year ago

The bagels are amazing - so fresh with lots of flavor options. The food comes quickly even though it's always busy. My kids love a good bagel with cream cheese and I love a good bagel sandwich - neither disappoints! We love out of town and make sure to come here anytime we're in town because a really good bagel is hard to find! read more

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Mike U.

Sharon, thank you for taking the time to leave a review! It means a…

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Kristine A.

10 months ago

Best bagels and best atmosphere!! Michael is amazing!! Such a wonderful time!! Challah is awesome! Love love love!! Best service!

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Mike U.

Hi Kristine! Thanks for your wonderful review! We really appreciate…

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Renee B.

1 year ago

One of the best bagels I've ever had. Toasted everything with cream cheese + tomato + lemon pepper! Excellent. read more

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Mike U.

Renee, we’re so glad that you came in and loved your bagel! We really…

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Candice K.

311

2 years ago

Finally a New York style bagel! This place has excellent customer service, Friendly faces, and a delicious selection of bagels. I had such a pleasant experience and happy I decided to pop in there for breakfast. This place was clean and reminded me of being back on the east coast! Definitely coming back read more

Garden State Bagels - Everything bagel with cream cheese. - Bagels Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Ivy R.

1 year ago

You can't go wrong with anything you order. Great bagels, I had the egg bagel with chive cream cheese. Perfect amount of cream cheese, doughiness and texture is exactly what a bagel should be. Even better customer service, staff is friendly and enjoyable. Highly recommend!!! read more

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Mike U.

Ivy, thank you for leaving such a kind review! We’re so glad you…

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Elena T.

1 year ago

Best breakfast sandwich in all of San Diego. Please open one down south- preferably mission hills

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Mike U.

Elena, thanks for taking the time to leave us a review! We’re so…

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Lucia S.

11 months ago

Incredible Bagels! Fresh and totally delicious. Always the perfect way to start my mornings.

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Mike U.

Thanks Lucia! We’re so happy to be part of your mornings! We…

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Mike L.

1 year ago

This place is great. Super friendly staff and awesome food. They keep the line moving! Superior service and great outcomes regardless of what you order. read more

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Mike U.

Thank you so much Mike! We love to deliver a great experience to our…

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Jake B.

1 year ago

Great customer service. The bagel was absolutely the best bagel I've had in a while. The vibe was great in the store.

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Mike U.

Thanks so much Jake! We really appreciate your coming in! Hope to see…

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jenn g.

1 year ago

Bagels are amazingly fresh and the staff is super friendly! Best Bagel shop in San Diego!!!

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Mike U.

Thank you so much, Jenn! Your review and your business mean a lot to…

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Jeanne D.

2 years ago

This was my first time visiting this cute little bagel shop! Totally authentic, and the service was incredible! Next time I'm in Encinitas, I will stop back and visit them again! Thank you so much to the owner for his kindness! read more

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Mike U.

Jeanne, thank you for stopping in! It was a pleasure to meet you, and…

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Diane C.

Elite 26

840

1604

3569

5 years ago

Okay, I grew up on bagels from the old country. My bagel standards are very high for authentic bagels. I ordered variety dozen with cream cheeses. The bagels are not bad but they're not that great. They're dry and seem to lack salt. The jalapeno cream cheese had zero heat. The Philadelphia jalapeno spread is much better than this. The service is good. Will I be back? Not sure. There are other bagel places around that I like more. read more

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Robert C.

2 years ago

Phenomenal service and delicious bagels!! Solid local spot with a real community feel.

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Mike U.

Thank you, Robert! We really appreciate you being part of the Garden…

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Morgan L.

1 year ago

My favorite bagel place in all of San Diego! If I want a bagel sandwhich this is where I go,l. The bagels are only this good in NYC. The staff is fast and friendly. Highly recommend!!! read more

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Mike U.

Thanks Morgan! We love to hear that you’re a fan of our bagel…

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Emma B.

2 years ago

Best bagels in all of San Diego!!! East coast feel, kind and personable owner, 10/10 service!! read more

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Mike U.

Thank you so much, Emma! We feel so lucky to have great customers…

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Greg R.

2 years ago

Sneaky overcharging for order. This has now happened the past two times i have went so it will be the last. The lady charged me for two creame cheese containers when I got one and also over charged me for the half dozen bagels. Was nearly $40 for half doze bagels, small chream cheeze and a small coffee. When caught she claimed her finger slipped. meh read more

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Jacob W.

1 year ago

Been coming here for over a year, definitely my go to breakfast bagel spot food is amazing and service is always exceptional! definitely worth stopping by! read more

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Mike U.

Jacob, it’s a privilege to be able to serve our community with…

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Mike M.

568

1 year ago

Vibes are great but the bagels are better! Check this place out! Sunday regulars! Chive cream cheese is a must!

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Mike U.

Thank you so much Mike! We appreciate you and love that you are a…

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Cheryl D.

1 year ago

This place makes some of the best bagels I've ever had -- crispy on the outside, perfectly chewy inside. Great variety, super fresh ingredients, and the sandwiches are next level (the smoked salmon one is a must-try). Staff is friendly and fast. If you love bagels, don't miss this spot! read more

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Sara B.

1 year ago

Scrumptious bagels. Yummy, savory spreads. Cool ambiance and vibes for days. Mike the owner exudes warmth and humor. You just can't miss with Garden State Bagels. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would. read more

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Mike U.

Hi Sara - Thank you so much! We appreciate your kind words and love…

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Nancy C.

1 year ago

Consistently good bagels! Love that they sell (a very good) low fat cream cheese, many don't. Friendly service & our NYC friend says they are decent too and he usually only likes NYC bagels! read more

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Mike U.

Thank you, Nancy! We love a positive review, and we especially love…

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Madison P.

1 year ago

Amazing bagels and amazing service! Some of the best bagels I have had in San Diego. Will definitely be back soon.

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Mike U.

Thanks for the great review, Madison! We really appreciate your…

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Blake P.

1 year ago

Amazing service! We come here every weekend! Favorite bagel place in San Diego by far.

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Mike U.

Thank you, Blake! We appreciate you and your business so much!…

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Back

Page 2 of 14

191 N El Camino Real
Ste 106
Encinitas, CA 92024
Directions
(760) 942-2435
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
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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.

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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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Very shocked at how good this place was, I love bagel spots and this one hits even harder than my…read morelocal bagel spot. I'm not from the area but if you are around here definitely check is place out.

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)

2.6 mi

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

I love their bagels. The only thing is, they're smaller than they used to be. Not by a lot but the…read moreprice went up for a smaller bagel

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Gordy's Bakery

5 stars. Pastries, bagels, croissants, plonks. Breakfast & lunch sandwiches, all simple fresh and…read morereminiscent. Homemade dog treats. Overnight oats. Coffee! Classic coffees, but also Vietnamese iced/hot, ube lattes, and fun other flavors. Very nice to us every time we are here. It seems to be a hit. It can get pretty busy in AM! We started coming here every time after we bring our dogs to the park. Lovely morning routine. This country needs more small owned businesses that makes locals feel like family. Not all the chains that become so money hungry and impersonalized. This place is perfect.

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

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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.

One of the best ham and cheese croissants ever. Great service, she was so sweet. Beautiful bled…read morebread everywhere. Delicious!

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Caprese sandwich

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Outside

Surfdog's Java Hut

I enjoy coming here. The open space is lovely and right next to the beach. Employees are super…read morenice. Coffee is hit or miss, I got a chai here once that I swear was just milk.

Cute coffee shop with both indoor and outdoor seating. They offer a nice selection of pastries,…read moresandwiches, bagels, and smoothies. I ordered the Chunky Monkey Smoothie (banana, peanut butter, chocolate, and whole milk). The consistency was great, though the banana flavor was more prominent than the peanut butter, which I usually prefer. Overall, I enjoyed it and would like to come back to try their sandwiches.

Photos

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

Ascend coffee roasters is one of my favorite Lil coffee shops. They have delicious coffees, and…read morespecials. And their burritos are delicious too. I love the pink in the restaurant, they even have a cute little place for babies to play. Service is quick, staff is very friendly.

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

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.

Came here with a friend on Easter Sunday around 9:30 PM and had a great experience overall. It was…read morepretty mellow for a holiday night with just a handful of people there with plenty of seating both inside, outside, and at the bar. We ended up grabbing seats at the bar, which was a great choice. We ordered the: *Fig Burger with Brussels Sprouts: the Brussels sprouts were phenomenal. They had what tasted like pecans, some kind of glaze, and cheese... seriously so good. The Fig Burger itself was just as impressive with such a unique combo and absolutely delicious. *Steak Sandwich with Onion Rings: this was also a standout. Perfectly cooked, super flavorful, and came with a great dipping sauce that really tied it all together. The onion rings were crispy and on point too. First off, I love that they offer a variety of sides (sweet potato fries, truffle fries, mac & cheese, Brussels sprouts, etc.), though most come with a small upcharge. We had a few drinks and even grabbed a bottle of wine from the bar to take back to our Airbnb, which was a nice bonus. The vibe was relaxed with TVs playing highlights from a basketball game, and the bartender/server was awesome. Parking was easy with free street parking, though that might've been because it was late and a holiday. Only heads up: definitely call ahead about kitchen and closing times, especially on holidays. Online said they close at midnight, but they were actually closing at 11 PM. We were told over the phone the kitchen closed at 9:45 PM, but when we arrived at 9:30 PM, it had just switched to last call. Thankfully, they were kind enough to still get our order in. Overall, phenomenal food, great service, and a solid spot worth checking out. Would definitely come back.

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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

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

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!

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Matcha milk tea

Leucadia Donut Shoppe

just tried for the first time. 10/10 donuts and lovely energy from the husband and wife!read more

The service was fabulous. I would go back just to say hello. I got the croissant and the chocolate…read morecream donut and I finished neither. I had a bite of my mom's glazed and it was good but I feel no need to get more donuts there. But a couple days after I went, I saw on instagram that Tony Hawk went and that's cool.

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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

(58 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

(115 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.

I thought the mochi donuts were light and delicious! I especially liked the Nutella one! Service is…read morefast. And the goods are fresh! Will definitely be back to try more!

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Try our soft serve ice cream donut!

Mangonada

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Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

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.

4 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 June 2026

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