Best bagel shops in Montreal
Montreal is famous for its bagels, baked fresh in wood-fired ovens. Here are six shops where you can enjoy these famous bagels.
St-Viateur Bagel Shop
One of the most famous bagel shops in Montreal, known for its traditional hand-rolled bagels. Established in 1957, St-Viateur Bagel Shop is celebrated for its wood-fired baking method, producing deliciously chewy and flavorful bagels that attract locals and tourists alike.
PHOTO CREDIT: St-Viateur Bagel Shop
Check out their suggestions for bagel toppings
Fairmount Bagel
Another famous Montreal bagel shop that rivals St-Viateur in popularity and quality. Established in 1919, this family-owned shop uses a traditional wood-fired oven to create bagels with a distinctive texture and taste.
PHOTO CREDIT: Fairmount Bagel
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Bagels on Greene
Known for its variety of bagel flavors and gourmet sandwiches. They offer a variety of bagels and spreads, making it a favorite for locals seeking a delicious breakfast or snack.
PHOTO CREDIT: Bagels on Greene
Real Bagel
An authentic Montreal bagel bakery famous for its classic preparation style. Offering a wide variety of bagel flavors and toppings, Real Bagel has become a favorite destination for both locals and visitors seeking a genuine Montreal bagel experience.
PHOTO CREDIT: Real Bagel
Bagel St-Lo
This charming bakery offers a range of bagel varieties and gourmet spreads, making it a popular choice for breakfast and brunch. Go here for artisanal bagels and their cozy café atmosphere.
PHOTO CREDIT: Bagel St-Lo
Hinnawi Bros Bagel & Café
Known for its wide selection of bagel sandwiches and gourmet coffee, Hinnawi Bros provides a perfect setting for a relaxed breakfast or lunch.
PHOTO CREDIT: Hinnawi Bros
What are the origins of the bagel?
The bagel originated in Jewish communities in Poland in the 17th century. It was designed as a gift to women in childbirth, symbolizing the circle of life due to its round shape.
The name „bagel“ comes from the Yiddish word „beygal,“ which derives from the German word „beugel,“ meaning „bracelet“ or „ring.“
Why are there holes in bagels?
The hole in the center of a bagel isn’t just traditional; it has practical purposes. It allows the bagel to cook more evenly, with the boiling and baking processes penetrating from both the outside and inside.
Additionally, the hole increases the bagel’s surface area, allowing for more room for delicious toppings like cream cheese and lox.
What makes a bagel different from regular bread?
Bagels are unique because they are boiled before they are baked. The boiling process gives the bagel its dense, chewy texture, and a shiny, crisp exterior. This method contrasts with most bread, which is simply baked.
