The Best of SRQ Local competition was bigger than ever this year. With so many categories and incredible businesses participating, the Best Local Bagel category managed to slip by us as we went to press. However, out of sight in the magazine does not mean out of mind for SRQ readers. Today, we are happy to post the results for best bagels. Drum roll please.....

Whoever invented breakfast food had a thing for circles—pancakes, donuts, sausage patties, english muffins. The shape reigns supreme and perhaps the most beloved is the bagel. Synonymous with New York City as much as the early morning, bagels provide the perfect pick your own adventure culinary journey. Between the seemingly endless bagel flavors—sesame, everything, cinnamon raisin, pumpernickel, and the multitude of cream cheese choices plus toppings the possibilities are endless. Toasting their way to the top this year is Platinum winner Brooklyn Bagels & Deli. In second place, lox no further than Gold winner 99 Bottles Taproom & Bottle Shop. And, rounding out the competition is Silver sensation Lox' n Egg Bread Company.

Emily Govaars, (on Brooklyn Bagels & Deli): Their bacon egg and cheese bagel is to die for and always a quick hearty breakfast on the way to work! Their customer service feels like home and so does the food. So glad they’re in business!

Sarah Seay, (on 99 Bottles Taproom & Bottle Shop): Best bagels in town. So many options on how to get them prepared. With great drink selection!

Werner Gundersheimer, (on Lox' n Egg Bread Company): Bagels are extremely fresh, not excessively doughy, with consistent quality across the range; the bialys are even better.

We will be publishing this category as part of the Best of SRQ Local Showcase in the July/August 2022 edition of the magazine. And that's the hole truth.