Getting a good bagel in the Burgh is like going on a secret mission. We’re nothing like New York or New Jersey, where nearly every corner has a spot as good as the next. But that doesn’t mean we don’t have tasty bagels and schmears here!
So what’s the best we have to offer? The City Cast Pittsburgh team put our bagel scene to the test. For our research purposes, we only ordered from brick-and-mortar shops that specialize in bagels. And for consistency, we got everything bagels and cream cheese from each spot — plus a bunch of specialty flavors for fun.
Tune into the City Cast Pittsburgh podcast to hear some hot takes — from best texture to most flavorful — then scroll for more team favorites.
Pigeon Bagels
There’s a reason why a long line trails outside of this Squirrel Hill spot on the weekends — the fresh bagels and schmears are worth it. The moment you step into the small corner shop, you’re hit with all of the best toasty, buttery aromas. I’m a big fan of the marble bagel, a hand-twisted blend of light rye and dark pumpernickel; it’s perfectly nutty and sweet and pairs well with their fig and honey schmear. Keep tabs on their specialty flavor of the month, like pizza or herbs de Provence. Tip: The coffee here is just as good as the bagels. I can’t wait for their blueberry lattes to come back! — Senior newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco
Three Brothers Bagels
This family-owned shop in Glenshaw knows how to nail the right level of chewiness. Their generously-sized bagels come in all the traditional flavors (including egg!), and they have an extensive bagel sandwich menu. If you're looking for a pastrami, egg, and cheese or classic lox, this is your spot. But the bagel texture is so perfect, all you truly need is a good ol' helping of scallion cream cheese. Tip: If you're throwing a giant party, consider booking their bagel truck to cater! — Executive producer Mallory Falk
Balena Bagels
I will happily wake up early, cross a bridge, and sit through tunnel traffic to get to Balena Bagels in Castle Shannon. Their everything bagels delivered a balanced bite with plenty of seeds and seasonings on the top and bottom halves of the bagel, and the rosemary bagel was just as flavorful. The bagels have a slight chew on the outside and a soft interior. I can't wait to go back for their za'atar or garlic bread bagel! The cream cheese here is whipped, so if that's not your thing, create your own cream cheese flavor at Phat Bagel in Bloomfield; this is the power pairing for my perfect bagel spread. — Producer Sophia Lo
Burgh's Bagels
I will forever remember Burgh’s Bagels (and producer Sophia) for teaching me what it means to taste a bagel with real flavor. Great chewiness, nice crumb. Less of a crunch on the shell (which I liked), and the bread itself tasted like something before you add the adornments. They have a huge sandwich and “build your own” menu, plus specialty bagels like French toast and jalapeño red pepper, which paired perfectly with all their savory schmears. Another plus: The everything bagel had the perfect amount of salt. — Host Megan Harris
