Bagels are an essential breakfast option, especially for big bagel fans like me and so many of the residents of Athens. However, at first glance, Athens might seem like a bit of a bagel desert. Luckily for you, I've tracked down the best places to get a bagel near your Athens apartment!
Located on Broad Street in the heart of Athens, Ideal Bagel is THE spot to get your morning fix. With a huge selection of handmade bagels including pumpernickel, cinnamon raisin, honey wheat, and all your regular favorites, Ideal Bagel is the perfect spot to get breakfast with your friends or study for that incoming test. Their schmears are out of this world with flavors like jalapeno garlic, bacon tomato, and many more. Ideal Bagel is an Athens favorite and is always packed so be sure to go before noon to beat the lines.
My Order: Herb Schmear on Cheese Bagel
A perfect spot to stop by in between classes for lunch, Einstein Bros has some of the best bagels on campus. Located within the scenic Main Library, I recommend grabbing a bagel and maybe even a coffee or matcha and heading up the stairs to the third floor. The Reading Room in the Main Library is one of my favorite places to study on campus and is a great place to quietly enjoy your lunch with spectacular views of North Campus.
My Order: Bacon Avocado Egg White Bagel on Asiago (Try their cheesy hashbrown bagel too!)
With coffee shops all over Athens, Jittery Joes is an absolute Athens staple. Although Jittery Joes might not be the first place you think of when it comes to food, their bagels and pastries are not ones to pass up. Their downtown location has a plethora of different bagels which pair beautifully with their coffee. Jittery Joes has their own bakery so their bagels are always fresh and never dry. When looking for a place to study near your downtown apartment, Jittery Joes is a great option.
My Order: Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese
Athens might not be overflowing with bagel options, but the ones it does have are truly exceptional. Whether you're craving a classic bagel with cream cheese, a gourmet sandwich to fuel your day, or a quiet spot to study with a view, these three spots have you covered. From Broad Street to the serene corners of campus and downtown, these bagels have gotten me through three years of college. So, whether you're a student, a resident, or just passing through, be sure to check out these bagel shops to satisfy your cravings.