Editor's Note: We are no longer accepting submissions for the best bagel shop in Central Jersey. Be sure to check out the Table section in the Wed., April 1 Courier News and Home News Tribune to read about what the top bagel shops had to say for themselves following this survey.
New York City may be known as the home to some of the best bagels in the United States, but as Central Jerseyans are well aware, bagel shops throughout Hunterdon, Somerset, Middlesex and Union counties certainly give them a run for their morning pocket change.
The best bagel shops in the region are well-known to their lucky neighbors, but we took that knowledge main stream and shared it with your fellow readers.
Your input will appear online and may be used in an upcoming feature in our Table section that will appear on April 1.
Bagel & Grill at 207A Route 22E, Green Brook
"Biggest and tastiest Bagels around! Crusty on the outside and deliciously soft on the inside! Bagel and Grill has fantastic Bagel sandwiches, delicious and various cream cheese. Olive cream cheese is the best on the Everything. They also have a catering menu and ordering online is available." - Julie and John Degutis, South Plainfield
Tina's Bagel Factory at 1470 South Olden Ave., Trenton
"The best bagel shop in central Jersey is by far Tina's Bagel Factory!!!" - Kimberly Valero
Broadway Bagels at 105 South Broadway, South Amboy
"South Amboy was without a bagel shop until Broadway Bagels opened in the 90's. Bagels are baked fresh and most of the time they are hot out of the oven. They also sell a delicious crumb cake & muffins along with sandwiches, and soup for lunch in the winter months. I have family in NY and NH and when visiting they always ask me to bring bagels from Broadway. Owners Rob & Steve are friendly and hard working." - Maryagnes Morris, South Amboy
Bagels-4-U of Raritan at 21 Route 206, Raritan
"From 5:30 a.m. to closing, the lines constantly snakes out the door. EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Warm bagels are tossed in each bin on an average of every 20 minutes, and the existing bagels never have time to cool. The bagels are a warm, sensory experience with just the right amount of crunch to the crust with a creamy doughy interior. Yes, this is a local chain. No, the others with the same franchise name are not quite as good. My favorite: pumpernickel. My husband's favorite: Everything Jalapeno. My only complaint: bring us the mini bagels in the wonderful flavors of the regular sized ones. I don't know what they do, but they sure do it right!" - Pamela Winter
Bagels-4-U of Hillsborough at 409 Route 206, Hillsborough
"Best whole wheat everything bagels (rare combo) in the area, with two, count 'em, TWO slices of freshly cooked sausage complementing the salty/savory mix of everything-bits, with the gravitas and health benefits of whole wheat, and made fresh each morning. Their salmon/lox is not bad either. Closest thing we have in the area to Einstein Bagels." - Andy O' Hearn, Bridgewater
Bagels-4-U of Metuchen at 403 Main St., Metuchen
"My reason for this nomination is: they are open reasonable hours and always have most any bagel you want. They have all the condiments you might want, they have good, fresh coffee. The personnel is polite and friendly." - Richard Ferber
Clark Bagels at 1045 Raritan Road, Clark
"Clark Bagels. None better." - Vladimir Solujich
N & A Hot Bagels at 691 Route 1, Edison
"We just ordered dozens of bagels for our open house tomorrow from N & A Hot Bagels. What a great little place. Love that it's mom and pop!" - Edison Mobile Estates
Fanwood Bagel at 32 S Martine Ave., Fanwood
"We have been going to Fanwood Bagel for many years and love their bagels. They are always soft and warm. My husband has been going for so many years that he knows the owners and workers by their first names and they know him by his name. It's always crowded on Saturday mornings, but it's worth the wait." - Suzanne Russell, Staff Reporter
Bagel Pantry at 134 South Plainfield Ave., South Plainfield and 545 Middlesex Ave., Metuchen
"Too many reasons come to mind but I know I need to keep this "short". The Service is quality; to walk in and see a huge line and to have the confidence knowing (this line is going to move). The food is quality; they have fresh ingredients all the time. The employees are quality; you are always greeted with a smile & "what can I get you"...if they know you - you also receive a friendly "Hello". The South Plainfield Ave is a new location for them, yet nothing has changed in a negative way.... Bagels are still amazing, Pork Roll, Egg & Cheese still stellar and it simply fits in with South Plainfield and "Our small town feel.'" - Trish Readie, South Plainfield
"The BEST bagel shop in all of New Jersey is The Bagel Pantry! They have locations in South Plainfield and Metuchen but South Plainfield is our favorite!!!" - Mara McAuley, South Plainfield
"Great tasting, high quality food with outstanding service! Fresh made bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and the coffee are the best around." - Mark O' Brien, South Plainfield
"Two of the numerous reasons Bagel Pantry can be named the best is the quality of their food and their service. They always offer the freshest foods from their warm bagels (not uncommon to pull one apart on a Sunday morning and see steam released) to their incredible homemade vegetable cream cheese (perfect spread for more than just bagels), to name a couple of items from their extensive menu. Their service just makes the food taste that much better though. You can walk into the Metuchen location and see a line 15 deep with people but still have your perfected order in hand and out the door in less than 7 minutes (give or take). I've never been greeted with anything less than a smile and they even take time to ask about our family. Just a wonderful, cozy environment!" - Emily Poandl, formerly of Metuchen
"Hands down the best bagels anywhere in the state. Pork roll/egg/cheese on an everything bagel is a must!" - Bill Tankiewicz
"Great selection, always fresh!" - Gloria Buggey
"My hometown (South Plainfield) has the best bagels around! Service is fast and friendly. Nice new eating area to enjoy one of their many great breakfast or lunch specials. I love all the bagels but my favorites are everything, egg, cinnamon raisin and French toast! The French toast is amazing and one that you must try on your visit. Hope you will visit my town and enjoy the many delicious bagels!!" - Suzanne Kovacs
Grill N Fill at 1 Talmadge Road, Edison
"Their bagels have the right mix of a crusty outside and an airy inside." - Marla Roth-Resnick
Lil' Pickles at 318 Route 202/206 north, Pluckemin
"Perfect combination of softness, chew, crisp and flavor. They also make the perfect bagel for a bomber sandwich!" - Adam Toris
"Without a doubt, Lil Pickles in Pluckemin, great selection, fresh taste, good assortment of cream cheeses. Also a friendly staff that 'knows your name.' A must stop if you are in the Somerset Hills." - Steve Parker
Bagel Time & Deli at 341 Main St., Matawan
"Best bagel hands down!" - Brian Conahan
Main Street Bagel Co. at 26 Main St., Flemington
"Everything is my favorite and it has everything all the way around! Jalapeno/Cheddar is my other favorite." - Jeff Hoffman
Cranbury Bagel Barn at 64 N Main St., Cranbury
"Their bagels are great! Crunchy crust and soft centers! My favorite is the egg bagel. The owner, Vincent, is a great man and knows everyone by name." - Karen Garland
Main Street Bagel Co. at 26 Main St., Flemington
"Baked to fluffy on the inside, crunchy on outside with just the right amount of salt. Delicious plain. My favorite is the 'everything' bagel." - Keri Siniscalco
Gem's House of Bagels at four locations in Monmouth County
"By far the best bagels in New Jersey are at Gem's Bagels. They have two locations near me, one in Keansburg and one in Hazlet. LOVE them!" - Traci Mathias
La Bagel at 1791 Route 27, Edison
My daughter, Marlena, could live on their bagels, particularly the cinnamon raisin bagel or the everything bagel! My little grandson, Chase, can tell by smelling the bag if they came from 'the GOOD' bagel shop and not the convenient one around the corner! It is worth the extra miles to make my family happy!" - Peggy Fabiano
Bagel Time & Deli at 341 Main St., Matawan
"The best is Bagel Time in Matawan at 516 and 79. He even makes doggy bagels." - Lynne WeissMarshall
Bagel Garden at 1021 Route 202 north, Branchburg
"The best bagels in the world are from Bagel Garden. His baker, Rodrigo Pineda, makes the best bagels I've ever tried, especially the spinach bagel!!" - Araceli Ayala
Bagel Stadium at 601 W Union Ave., Bound Brook
"They have a nice variety of flavors and toppings as well as sandwiches. The staff is quick and polite. The bagels, however, are the real reason I go there. I have a problem with my jaw that causes pain when I eat items that are too large and chewy. I avoid bagels from most other places for this reason. But not their bagels, they're just the right texture and flavor. They are the best!!!" - Ann Sikora, Bound Brook
O' Bagel at Dewy Meadow Shopping Center, 403 King George Rd # 104, Basking Ridge
"My favorite bagels are from o'bagel. Best bagel, best service! Bagels are always fresh and soft." - Ahmed Ragab, Livingston
"Taylor ham egg and cheese on a bagel is my favorite order." - Julia Seebode
"Taylor ham egg and cheese on a plain bagel with salt pepper ketchup is my favorite order. O' Bagel rules!" - Casey Forand, Basking Ridge
"There is no better way to start off an early Saturday morning then with an O'Bagel bagel! These bagels have been my favorite for years and they keep me coming back every single weekend. I like to try something new each week but my absolute favorite is a toasted everything bagel scooped out with chicken salad, tomatoes, lettuce, onion, oregano, and oil and vinegar. I could eat this everyday! O'Bagel will always be my favorite bagel shop and it is truly the best!" - Menah Mohamed
"O'bagel in Basking Ridge, NJ has by far the best bagels I've ever had. Their Taylor Ham, Egg and Cheese is hands down the most delicious breakfast sandwich I've ever had. The quality of their hand rolled bagels and their customer service is second to none. This town wouldn't be the same without O'bagel. I recommend this family run bagel shop to anyone in the Central Jersey area! - John Mulhall, Basking Ridge
"I love OBagel you can't find a bagel shop that still hand rolls each bagel. When the baker works the oven it's like an orchestra how he flips each board. My son loves the plain. He says mom it doesn't need a thing. I like the garlic,onion and everything bagels. All their cream cheeses are excellent.I go out of my way to go there. It's worth the trip. The people are so nice. I know they are a family. You can tell. Also with twenty years experience it shows." - Viviane Pacheco, Linden
"I have been going to O'Bagel for many years now and their bagels are just perfect! They have good variety, and they offer sandwiches which I normally do not see at other bagel shops. They have sandwiches like Falefels and Gyro's with are fantastic!" - Purvi Patel
"O'Bagel in Basking Ridge is by the far the best bagels in the area. We having been going for years and beside from the best bagels, the owners Sam and DonnaMarie are the nicest most generous people. They always great you personally when you walk in the door. My son has a mandatory trip to O'Bagel for a bacon egg and cheese as soon as he returns from college. The Bagels are always fresh and delicious as well as their bagel sandwiches." - Pam Ball
"O'Bagel is hands down, the BEST bagel in New Jersey! O'Bagel is one of the only bagel stores in New Jersey that actually hand rolls their bagels on premises and you can taste it in their product! Their bagels are always fresh and have the perfect taste. They always have their regular and specialty bagels ready which include some of my personal favorites; Whole Wheat Everything, Black Russian, and of course a traditional Plain. I dare you to try to find a fresher and tastier bagel in all of New Jersey than O'Bagel in Basking Ridge!" - David Feldman, Warren
"They are very community oriented, constantly donating to fund raisers, activities. Very warm, caring, sharing and fun! I truly enjoy their fresh hand rolled raisin bagels. Very flavorful with the walnut cream cheese. I have tried the sandwiches which are fresh made with good meat. I think the combination of the fresh products, website and fun, lively, caring atmosphere is important for continued business. To many more successful years....let us aim for 40 years in business." - Amisha Patel
"I love bagels. My daughters and I have been going to O'Bagel for almost 20 years. My Mother-in-law lives in Massachusetts and I bring them to her every time we go to visit. I am not sure I would be allowed in without them. Not only are their bagels the best around, they are supportive within our community, donating to many different clubs and organizations. There is a reason for the long lines on weekend mornings. The bagels are always worth the wait." - Judy Spring, Basking Ridge
"Best tasting bagels - more authentic type of middle eastern bagel, great tuna and other salads, friendly service and always fresh!" - Marge Dukes
"I would like to nominate O'Bagel in Basking Ridge for the best bagels in NJ. We have lived in Basking Ridge for 18 years and will only get bagels from O'Bagel. They are crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle. Our son goes to Penn State and I send him bagels every month...his roommates are hooked on them too! The store made cream cheeses are the best too! The bagel sandwiches are fantastic! Taylor ham, egg and cheese are our favorite! Saturday mornings are not complete without an O'Bagel bagel!" - Danette Quinn, Basking Ridge
"My favorite order is an everything bagel with tuna. O'Bagel has the best food and you can always count on seeing a friendly face when you stop buy. One time I ordered a bunch of bagels for my family and then realized I had no money on me. The great staff let me take the bagels and pay them later. I will always appreciate that generosity! O'bagel rocks!" - Maggie Keller, Basking Ridge
"Because its the only place that you can proudly say the bagels are from New Jersey, not New York , and are so much better. The variety is amazing , from multiple cream cheeses, to paninins , to muffins , to all different kinds of lunch and breakfast sandwiches. Everything is always freshly made which I really appreciate. They constantly try to come up with new ideas and the service is friendly and efficient. You will not find better than O'Bagel , thats for sure." - Omar Ibrahim, Holmdel
"I would like to nominate O'Bagel because they without a doubt have the best bagels in NJ. Hand-rolled, fresh, warm and doughy goodness is served on a daily basis at all three of their locations and almost more importantly, the service cannot be topped. Their Taylor Ham Egg and Cheese is an essential breakfast sandwich that is key to any morning commute or Saturday/Sunday breakfast or lunch. According to your article, you mention that New York is more known for its bagels than NJ. Well I currently live in NYC and I have not found anything that comes close to the special taste and satisfaction that you get when you go to O'Bagel. Family owned and operated, you feel like family when you go there with a greeting by name and if you are lucky, even a hug from Donna Marie! Special shout out to Marcos at their Dewey Meadow location who is one of the best customer service specialist around." - Ryan McGuirl, Basking Ridge
"O'bagel as the top bagel shop in central jersey. O'bagel is located Riverwalk and hands down makes the best bagel I've ever had. I typically like to order their everything bagel scooped out with the chicken salad. Their chicken salad is some of the best I've ever had and it keeps me coming back." - Mohamed Afifi
"Everything bagel toasted with double egg bacon and cheese is my favorite order." - Stephanie Occhiogrosso
"The service there is excellent and they have the best chicken salad I have ever tasted." - Adam Mohamed
"They have the best handmade bagels that I've ever tasted. Every bagel tastes fresh and delicious, and the management and service are always friendly and nice. I would eat O'bagel bagels every single day for breakfast!" - Davis George
"Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese on an Everything Bagel with salt, pepper, ketchup is my favorite order." - Ryan Gerrity, Basking Ridge
"I have been going to O'bagel for a long time and will NOT go anywhere else. I live 15 min from O'bagel passing three different bagels stores on the way that I could easily go to. I will not go anywhere else for a bagel because O'bagel has the best tasting food and great customer service and friendly workers! The owner of the store is the nicest most hard working man and it sure shows!!! I love O'bagel!!!" - Mary Vogt, Basking Ridge
"O'Bagel is hands down the best bagel establishment in the area. My favorite order is a bacon, egg, and cheese (SPK of course). The bagels themselves are perfect to the point of surreality. Therefore, it's understandable that O'Bagel is where every person in the greater Basking Ridge area goes for breakfast on a regular basis. Not only that, but the family that owns the chain are incredibly charitable, kind, and hardworking. They- and the store- embody what every business and business owner should strive to accomplish. There is no other place I'd rather go for breakfast!" - Ryan Walsh
"O'Bagel bagels have overall quality that is unmatched by their competition. They're made with the perfect amount of crisp and flavor and are always served fresh. I always get their everything bagel with butter when I go there. Along with top-notch bagels, the best part about going to O'Bagel has to be when I get to see Joe Maese! There's no better way to enjoy a bagel than to eat one with Joe Maese." - Sandro Brognara, Basking Ridge
"Sausage egg and cheese on everything is my favorite order." - Kenneth Savage
"Everything bagel with butter is my favorite order because they never get it wrong and nothing is better than the classics." - Jack Kelly, Basking Ridge
"Egg & Cheese on an everything bagel is my favorite order." - Ahmed Gabale
"My father-in-law comes from New Hope Pennsylvania for the flagel. My favorite is the everything flagel with vegetable cream cheese. Bagel sticks are also amazing. Taylor ham ,egg and cheese on a mini also fabulous. Hard to pick a favorite .Also has the best coffee around. Friendly staff. What more can you ask for? They even have dessert bagels. Cinnamon and French toast!" - Patty Garcia
"Despite living 430 miles away from O'Bagel it is a mandatory stop on every trip to NJ. So much so that before I see any friends and family my return to NJ is not official until I swerve off of 78 and after 7 hours in the car I sink my teeth into a taylor ham, egg, and cheese on a plain bagel with SPK (salt,pepper,ketchup) finished off by the famous fist bump from Ron (Riverwalk manager). O'Bagel stands tall amongst the other stores in NJ because their quality is unrivaled. These massive bagels have the crunch on the outside with the soft chewy inside that so many have come to love. To me this is more then a bagel store its a part of my home and a tie to my roots in NJ. It's the start to any trip home and after I have said my goodbyes to friends and family they are the ones who send me on my way with a dozen bagels, a friendly face and always a fist bump." -Chris Giannone, formerly of Basking Ridge
"O'Bagel Bagelry and Deli in Stirling (there are also 2 other locations) makes the best bagels! My daughter who is in college in another state even has her friends 'hooked' - when we visit we bring the group a baker's dozen! My younger, 17 year old daughter told me we can never move from the area because of two reasons: not ever finding pizza that tastes as good as in our area and and no bagel tastes like an O'Bagel bagel!" - Laura Novak, Millington
"Best bagel shop I've been to. Great staff. Great bagels. Can't wait to come home from college so I can go and get O'bagel!" - Kyle Saul
"I LOVE O'Bagel bagels! I am originally from Basking Ridge, but now I live in State College, Pennsylvania. I grew up eating O'Bagel bagels every Sunday, and always stop by the shop when I am home visiting family. I have eaten bagels all over the country, and even in Europe, and I can say with complete confidence that O'Bagel bagels are the best bagels I have ever tasted!! The opportunity to enjoy the best bagel in New Jersey is before you, just stop by O'Bagel. You will not regret experiencing their fluffy, yet crunchy bagel perfection." - Lauren McManemin, formerly of Basking Ridge
"Taylor ham, egg, and cheese on a sesame bagel with ketchup and hot sauce Favorite memory: I live in Rhode Island now, but every time I go home the first place I stop in at is O'Bagel. Hands down best bagels in New Jersey." Kevin Forand, formerly of Basking Ridge
"Whole wheat everything bagel with veggie cream cheese is heaven." - Sam Hellings
"The best bagels around!! I bring their bagels to work twice a year (we take turns). Everyone raves about Dunellen Bagels. They are usually still warm and nicely crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. My future son-in-law, a Philly native, loves the bagels and especially loves the flavored cream cheeses offered. In addition the guys that work there are very polite. They never fail to say "thank you" and "have a nice day." - Mary Tammaro
"Egg, and cheese on a bagel is my go to order the reason being that their bagels are fresh and they are New York style. They have the BEST bagels around. And they also hand roll each and every bagel!" - Marlene Fischer
"Taylor ham egg and cheese on plain toasted bagel, toasted cinnamon raisin with cream cheese, chocolate milk Basking Ridge Great bagels and great atmosphere, o'bagel is love o'bagel is life. I am a loyal o'bageler until the day I die. Long live the O." - Alex Schraer
"The best bagels are to be found at the OBagle shop in Basking Ridge and Long Hill. These bagels are made from malt not flour. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. AAA+++" - Eileen Delia
"My favorite bagels comes from O'Bagel. Their bagels, especially their everything bagel, is the best I ever tasted. Sam, the owner, knows the bagel business for he's been perfecting it for over 20 years! They have 3 locations but I mostly go to the River walk location." - Lisa McManemin, Basking Ridge
"By far without a doubt i always go to O' Bagel at Riverwalk over any other place because they make the freshest and best bagels easily. I usually order bagel cream cheese and lox with tomato and onion and the peopk are always so friendly and have amazing food." - William Lauricella
"Taylor ham egg and cheese on a plain bagel is my favorite order." - Hayley, Basking Ridge
"Sam, Donna-Marie and Jeannette make the best bagels anywhere. Hands down! O'Bagel with three locations at Riverwalk Center and Dewey Meadow in Basking Ridge, NJ and Valley Road in Sterling NJ. O'Bagel has mastered the art of creating nice, big, hot, steamy bagels with a small center hole to retain the flavor. Each O'Bagel has is hand crafted with love in every bite. Excellent bagel for the buck. My favorite is everything whole wheat. Try one and you'll agree. I travel all over the USA and Canada and always look forward to my O'Bagel when in the area. Make Your Day Great!!!" - Chris McManemin
"Taylor ham and cheese bagel is my favorite order." - Jillian Lardiere
"Best Bagels i have ever had! Every weekend I get a Taylor ham, egg, and cheese on a toasted everything bagel. It's amazing!" - Tommy O'Rourke, Basking Ridge
"Taylor ham egg and cheese on plain bagel is my favorite order." - Nicholas Belo
"Whole Wheat bagel toasted with low fat cream cheese is my favorite order." - Bridget Morris
"I currently live in Hoboken, NJ and NO other bagel shop compares to O'Bagel in Basking Ridge, NJ. The food is incredibly fresh & homemade! The staff is warm & welcoming! Hands down - BEST IN NJ!" - Sami DeVries, Hoboken
"The best bagels in Jersey are from O'Bagel in the Riverwalk Plaza. I love to order their low-carb bagels!" - Jillian Falduto, Basking Ridge
"O'Bagel is more than just a bagel store or a deli. It is a community and social landmark for everyone. If your not standing in line on Saturday morning conversing with people just waiting for your delicious taylor ham egg and cheese.... well, then you haven't experienced O'Bagel. Their food, service, and overall atmosphere is superior to any bagel place I've ever visited. It has become a social activity and almost a verb to go get O'Bagel now a days. They also have three locations, 2 in basking ridge, and one in Stirling. If you haven't tried O'Bagel, well then your missing out!" -Michael Porter
"O'Bagel in Basking Ridge is consistently the BEST bagel--and this is from a Brooklyn transplant!" - Catherine Ingal
"O'Bagel in Basking Ridge is our favorite bagel shop!!!!" - Lisa J. Reppert
"O'Bagel and Deli based out of Basking Ridge, NJ has the BEST bagels around. They hand-roll their bagels fresh every single morning, and make all of their spreads and sandwiches from scratch with the highest quality of food. O'Bagel was actually singled out as one of the top 28 overall reasons to move to New Jersey in a Movoto article too. They have two locations in Basking Ridge and one in Stirling, and I have to say, I've been going there my entire life and have never been disappointed! They are also family-owned and are active in their community, sponsoring local recreational teams and providing bagels to schools in the area. I can't say enough good things about O'Bagel!" - Chris Spina, Basking Ridge
"Best bagels around town!!!!" - Keri Villano, Basking Ridge
"My favorite order is a whole Wheat bagel with scallion cream cheese." - Jenny Haskel, Basking Ridge
"I have lived in Basking Ridge, NJ for my entire life (25 years) and have not had a better bagel than O'Bagel & Deli anywhere along the east coast. O'Bagel prides themselves on freshness and quality every single day. O'Bagel takes the time to hand roll all of the bagels every single morning and no matter what time of the day you can always count on getting a hot fresh bagel. They have a huge variety of bagels from your traditional bagels all the way to specialty bagels like the amazing French Toast bagel. Anything you can think of putting on a bagel, they have (spreads & salads homemade)! The place is amazing and has become a staple not only for Basking Ridge but for the surrounding towns as well. I would like to officially nominate for NJ best bagel shop, O'Bagel & Deli." - Brian Kuchera, Basking Ridge
"I always either get a taylor ham egg and cheese on a plain bagel, or their chicken salad on a plain bagel. Their chicken salad is the best I have EVER had and the bagels are phenomenal. They are so flavorful, and have the best texture." - Liza Cifelli, Basking Ridge
"I am voting for O'Bagel, the Riverwalk location. The way they hand make their ingredients and sandwiches is unbelievable. The display and creativity is so impressive. I order the Taylor egg and cheese every morning I go there. My favorite item though is the turkey sub. Their cold cuts are so fresh and the employees are so friendly. They genuinely want to get to know you and their food ranging from breakfast to lunch is so fresh and delicious." - Vincent Itz
"Tailor Ham, Egg and cheese on a whole week bagel (religiously)" - GianMarco Pugliese, Basking Ridge
"They hand roll their bagels each and everyday. NYC style bagels so you know that they are big. They are always fresh. It's not a bagel unless its O'Bagel! Hands down I always order their Taylor ham, egg, and cheese on a bagel. You cant go wrong. By far the best bagels in New Jersey!" - Bill Fischer
"Simply the best, freshest, most flavorful bagels in the Garden State. Ask anyone from the area. If a person argues otherwise, it's because they either haven't tried an O'Bagel or they lack tastebuds. Each bagel has the perfect degree of softness baked in, and unlike most every other bagel place in New Jersey, they don't skimp on flavor, size or ingredients. People need to try their Tuna on an everything bagel with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Their tuna is made fresh with bits of veggies, their bagels are baked not too soft or hard and always fresh, and the entire sandwich is simply the best. People rave about their breakfast sandwiches (also delicious), but their lunch options are just as spectacular." - Vincent Ferrer, Belford
Knot Just Bagels at 10 Main St., Woodbridge
"I feel that Knot Just Bagels is the best bagel shop because her bagels are made fresh daily and they are delicious. I think that I've tried every variety that they make...and they probably make about 15 different kinds ! They also make their own fresh cream cheeses in a variety of different flavors that are fabulous. One of my favorite specialty items that they make is a very large french toast bagel. It needs to be ordered the day before.....i'm drooling just writing about it ! So, it is a very big french toast bagel and in the middle of the bagel , they put butter and maple syrup ....oh my gosh !!! it is the best thing in the world !!....I've ordered this for special celebrations at home as well as for breakfast meetings at work..It is ALWAYS such a big hit with everyone...!! In addition to the bagels, she provide daily lunch specials as well. Everything you buy there is excellent !!" - Nancy Drumm, Woodbridge
"My vote is for Knot Just Bagels on Main St in Woodbridge. Not only the best bagels in the area, but Hand rolled and FRESH every day!!!! A favorite choice is difficult due to the wide variety available daily. Also, the staff is friendly and know many customers by name. This hometown meeting place is a favorite of many locals. If you haven't had a "KNOT JUST BAGEL" you are missing a delicious treat. Hurry in." - Kay Mc Auliffe, Woodbridge
"Knot Just Bagels makes the best bagels! They are hand rolled and baked everyday. The shop is open from 5 am to 3pm so it is very convenient to stop in before work and school. They have 32 different flavors of bagels, their French toast bagels is a house special and very popular. They do breakfast and lunch, have a full service kitchen and deli. Friendly staff and loyal customers. Amy Give them a try, you won't be disappointed." - Amy McDevitt, Woodbridge
"Sharon and Just Knot Bagels is the best not only for bagels but the sandwiches are wonderful." - Maria DeGraw
"KJB has some of the best breakfast sandwiches around. Bagels are huge and always fresh. They are a clean, friendly and reasonably priced bagel shop." - Charlie McDevitt, Woodbridge
"Knots Bagels are by far the most delicious and scrumptious in the entire Central Jersey area. The varieties are spectacular." - Fred Bernhardt, Port Reading
"I haven't had another bagel in this area that even comes close to KJB's bagels! Best in the township by far! You can order anything you want and KJB makes it up for you - always fresh and always just what you ordered!" -Heidi Timinski, Woodbridge
"I love the bagels from Knot Just Bagels. I go 15 minutes out of my way to have the best bagel or sandwich. They are the best around no one else makes bagels like they do!!" - John Lemanski, Hazlet
"I nominate Knot Just Bagels for having the best bagels in Central Jersey. Whether your desire is breakfast, lunch or dinner, Knot Just Bagels offers a wide variety of bagels (from plain to their signature series which includes Chocolate Chip, Spinach, Jalapeno, low carb and more) and spreads for their over-sized creations. Load it up with butter, lox, cream cheese, or more; pile on cold cuts or, dip into one of their delicious soups, and you'll never stop at another bagel shop again. And with every dozen being a baker's dozen, there is plenty left over to freeze for future use." - John Mitch, Avenel
"They put out a quality product at a reasonable price in a friendly atmosphere. Best bagels around!" - Amy Porcelli
"I am so happy to put in my vote for Knot Just Bagels! Their bagels are crispy and flavorful, always fresh and delicious. We cater many events with Knot Just Bagels and our staff and clients love their quality and presentation as well. Their menu is varied and they offer everything from simple favorites to the specialty sandwiches, and the value is amazing. The customer service and delivery is why we choose to use them in the salon & spa over and over again!" - Ann Mazza
"I work here in Woodbridge and one of my favorite bagel shops is Knot Just Bagels due to the excellent quality of their sandwiches and salads. They also do an excellent job of catering for our corporate luncheons including delivery. Every Friday morning, I look forward to a fresh everything bagel sandwich with taylor ham, egg, and cheese with SPK." - Mike Bolen, Tom's River
"The staff at Eastern Dental Love Just Knot Bagels... I personally love the French Toast Bagel, But will always take any bagels they have. I come from N.Y. and I thought that NY had the best bagels & bread, I was wrong. Just Knot Bagels beats them!!!! When I order, I get extra to have an extra treat at home…. Yum." - Kathy Strom, Woodbridge
"Big. Good taste. Fresh." - Tom Jurkowski, Spotswood
"The French toast bagel is amazing!" - Nancy Wojcik Alberici
"The Bagels are HAND ROLLED & BAKED FRESH DAILY. They have a selection of over 30 flavors from sweet, savory & healthy choice and they have a GIANT STUFFED FRENCH TOAST THAT FEEDS 20 people that is AMAZING!!! Plus the staff is pleasant and efficient." - Sharon McAuliffe
"My Choice!!! Just the best bagels in town! Awesome Salads, too." - Barbara Kitchen
"I think Knot Just Bagels is the best because it reminds me of New York bagels. I was born and raised in NY and bagels in NJ do not really compare, however, Knot Just Bagels are comparative to NY bagels!" - Monica VanBuskirk
"Knot Just Bagels is just the best, not only in how they taste, but in how they support the community. They get my vote!" - Anne Marie B. Almasi
"Sharon and Knot Just Bagels deserve this award. You will not meet a harder working, nicer person than Sharon. She is deeply involved in the community and cares about her customers. I have been to a number of bagel shops in my time. None have the culture that Knot Just Bagels offers." - Mark McLafferty
"I just wanted to vote for Knot Just Bagels. They are conveniently located near the Woodbridge train station and their bagels are always fresh. Lots to choose from an it doesn't take long to get in and out. You can always count on the food being delicious and the staff being very helpful." - Joan Quinones
"I work here in Woodbridge and one of my favorite bagel shops is Knot Just Bagels due to the excellent quality of their sandwiches and salads. They also do an excellent job of catering for our corporate luncheons including delivery. Every Friday morning, I look forward to a fresh everything bagel sandwich with taylor ham, egg, and cheese with SPK." - Mike
"We would go no where else for our bagels at work. Knot Just Bagels makes the best and the freshest bagels along with friendly employees that work there. We order lunch there and the food is so good also." - Geraldine Murgittroyd
"The best bagels around are from Knot Just Bagels. I love their bagels because they are always fresh and have the perfect ratio of soft/crunchy. They also have a great variety of flavors to choose from. And I love the specialty bagels they make for the holidays. Also, on Wednesdays, they have an awesome deal on a bakers dozen! KJB is the only place I buy my bagels." - Gina Forbes
"The staff at Eastern Dental loves Knot Just Bagels. I personally love the French Toast Bagel. But I will always take any bagels they have. I come from N.Y. and I thought that N.Y. had the best bagels & bread, I was wrong. Knot Just Bagels beats them!!!! When I order, I get extra to have an extra treat at home...Yum." - Kathy, Eastern Dental of Woodbridge
"They have the tastiest, freshest bagels every day that we can always count on. They also have the best food daily. Best sandwiches, and best breakfast. I work for the Woodbridge Police Department and we order from them every day. - Judi Ferrara
"Knot Just Bagels is the MOST wonderful bagel place in the state! Not only do they make the BEST bagels and sandwiches, but Sharon and her crew are always so friendly and make the customer feels so welcomed every time they walk in. They make you feel at home. Sunday mornings stopping in to get a bagel or some of their delicious homemade cream cheeses is the best way to start your day! They have the BIGGEST variety of bagels anywhere! Sharon is the most community minded business person I know. She is ALWAYS the first one to donate money, food and even her help to the schools and organizations in the Woodbridge area. She is the MOST generous when it comes to our township kids. So many programs and fundraisers have been successful because of her generosity and we can't thank her enough! It's not 'just a bagels store' it's family!" - Bonnielee Smith
"KJB is the best!! Sharon the owner is wonderful!! She is honest, professional and generous to the community, and her BAGELS are the BEST!!!!!!!!" - Karen M. Barnes
"I live in Jackson and commute to Newark. I go to Sharon's place as it is a pretty nice halfway point for me when I bring in bagels for our company meetings here. Bagels are delicious, always fresh, and always warm. The employees there are all very nice to talk to, and it seems while you are there that your business is genuinely appreciated." - Matt Flanagan
"Great customer service, variety of flavors and attention to detail." - Cynthia Fair
"I wanted to nominate Knot Just Bagels for the best bagels around. They are fresh always warm, always colored for the holidays and the owner and staff are the best. Sharon, the owner, always takes the time to support the community and at the end of the day when she has left over bagels she gives them to the food shelters/ and homeless shelters…great bagels, great people!" - Councilwoman Debbie Meehan, 5th Ward, Woodbridge
"Knot Just Bagels makes the best bagels. They are delicious, big and always so tasty. I brought a bag of bagels to a friends house in PA and another friend happened to also bring a bag of bagels from N.Y. We had a taste comparison. I am originally from N.Y., but have to say, after trying both bagels, that Knot Just Bagels were definitely much better tasting. When dining there, I always get the bacon, egg and cheese on a sesame bagel. It is so good. It never comes out as good when I make it at home. Their lunch sandwiches and salads are awesome too." - Joan DiSantis
"Knot Just Bagels hands down makes the very best bagels in Jersey. They are made fresh everyday and they taste delicious. First off, the bagels are big, not some wimpy bagel that I've seen at other places. The texture is perfect, not chewy, not bread-like — instead the perfect blend of crispy and softness. Aside from making the perfect bagel, they keep store very clean. Their customer service is excellent and many other items that I have had on their menu are fresh and delicious. I recommend KJB to a lot of people. I really enjoy not only their bagels and breakfast foods but their lunch menu as well." - Nikki Reiser, Sewaren
"KJB has the best bagels & service in town! They're always fresh, the staff is generally polite, and it's always clean." - Rose Szabo, Perth Amboy
Dunellen Bagel at 390 North Ave., Dunellen
"Growing up in Upstate NY, I didn't really know what a bagel was. What we had was more like bread. Then coming to NJ for college, I still didn't really get the obsession. But then I had Dunellen Bagel and it all clicked. It was a wonderful experience of what a true bagel should taste like. Crispy and soft, not too much and not too little. I have since compared every bagel I've consumed to Dunellen Bagel. They are the only bagels my children will eat and each order is catered to just the way I would like it. The deli meats are also some of the best around and compliment the bagels in just the perfect way. There is a lot of heart and soul in this little shop in a little town that I call home and it is because of that dedication that makes Dunellen Bagel special. Good food, good service, a friendly smile, and the community around it makes Dunellen Bagel second to none." - Meghan Portik, Dunellen
"Always fresh and service fast and friendly." - Bill Wagner, Dunellen
"They make the freshest bagels right on site. They offer a variety and make excellent breakfast sandwiches." - Roger Lendach
"Dunellen Bagel is family owned and operated and has been supplying consisiently delicious bagels for many decades. Their clientele is loyal for good reason." - Ellen Byrnes, Dunellen
"Going to school in north jersey and visiting friends down in south jersey, Dunellen Bagel hands down has the best bagels and best bagel sandwiches in the state! Perfect fluff to the bagels to have just cream cheese on them yet a great taste to have a pork roll, egg and cheese! Don't forget to add SPK (Salt Pepper and Ketchup)." - Stephen Bovo Jr., North Brunswick
"Best bagels I've ever had made by solid citizens who are rocks in the community. People to be relied upon." - Jack Kime, Dunellen
"I love "Dunellen Bagel," best bagels and Bagel & egg sandwiches, great to see everyone in town there too!" - Barbara Mastrian, Dunellen
"There are few feelings as good as going to Dunellen Bagel on a beautiful Sunday morning with your friends after you've had an adventure filled weekend. You get to sit outside on the patio enjoying your delicious freshly made bagel with whatever drink you desire soaking in the sun. And if that wasn't enough perhaps the best part of going to this small establishment on a Sunday morning is that Dunellen Bagel serves as a town square where everybody goes at some point to get their "fix" and to socialize with the numerous different people you are going to run into. This place perfectly embodies the saying, "home is where the heart is. P.S. You don't only need to go on a Sunday, every day of the week these bagels are phenomenal. - Keith Lefchuck, Dunellen
"I've been eating at Dunellen Bagel my entire life, even when it was "Manhattan Bagel" 10 or so years ago. The location is perfect. It is a block and a half away from the town High School and kids would line up there most mornings and especially afternoons during mid-term and finals periods. Whenever I return home, I have to get a Pork Roll, Egg & Cheese on an Everything bagel. The best is the guy at the counter that asks in one syllable if you want salt, pepper or oregano on the sandwich--"saltpepano?". The question is like a password--totally incomprehensible to the uninitiated--but to those in the know, is a sign of the perfect breakfast sandwich to come." - Larry Miller, Philadelphia
"Dunellen Bagel is the best bagel place hands down. I love going to a place where the staff knows and remembers my usual order. They make my bagel exactly the way I like it every single time. The bagels are always fresh and delicious. Even though I moved out of Dunellen, I still try to make my way back to Dunellen Bagel on Saturdays. I sometimes even leave for work earlier so I have time to stop for a bagel before work. They're worth it!" - Stephanie Maresco, Bridgewater
"What can I say? Small town, great people, FANTASTIC bagels! 4 years ago I moved from my little small town of Dunellen to San Diego. As it was a huge move for me, living in Dunellen since I was 5, finding a good bagel has been very hard to come by. This family owned and run by kids of our community bagel shop has been something I never stop talking about. I've tried so hard to find a good bagel out here and it just does not exist. A west coast bagel will never compare to an east coast bagel, but none compare to Dunellen bagel-a long time favorite and staple in our family and our comminuty. I've had bagels all around-Middlesex, Warren, New Brunswick, Westfield, San Diego--nothing I've had can compare. This is a must first stop when I come home and I've turned friends into complete lovers of everything Dunellen Bagel is about. I'm a true believer that the Portik's have the best of the best and Dunellen Bagel deserves to win best bagels in central Jersey AND the country! =)" - Jamie Maresco, San Diego
"Best Bagels around......nothing like a pork roll egg and cheese on a fresh bagel or a Santa Fe Turkey bagel sandwich, one of my favs! So worth the long lines on the weekend mornings! Once you try them you'll be hooked!!! PS....The staff is awesome too!!! Working in a school, people bring in bagels all the time from all over jersey, nothing can compare!!!!" - Melissa Paltjon, Dunellen
"Dunellen Bagel has the best porkroll, egg and cheese sandwich around. Don't believe come and taste for yourself!!" - Phyllis Piano, Dunellen
"Dunellen Bagel is always fresh! Love getting bagels from their on Sundays!" - Naomi Stinner 💌
"This is really not even a contest! This is hands down a blow out! If you've ever been to DB even ONE TIME, regardless of how many OTHER bagel shops you have EVER been to, then the choice is easy! It is family owned, and when you do something in your home town for the people of your home town, the love and passion for both comes through! And the customers know it!! There are not many places where people are willing to wait on a line that goes out the door 10 deep - and you only wait because it is worth the wait!! And it goes much further than bagels - lunch sandwiches, burgers etc are all top notch!! The staff is mostly hometown kids as well - just another way the Portik's find a way to support the town!! I will tell you, there is not much better then DB after Sunday mass on a nice warm May morning, sitting outside their shop enjoying a bagel sandwich (or two!!), a nice cup of coffee and a Sunday paper! If you haven't yet had the pleasure of DB breakfast or lunch sandwich, do yourself a favor and make it a morning stop soon! You won't be disappointed!!" - George Johnson, Dunellen
"Moved from Dunellen to Branchburg 11 years ago and still drive to Dunellen Bagel because I can't find any other bagel place that has bagels like theirs!!" - Faith, Branchburg
"Without a doubt, Dunellen Bagel is the BEST PLACE for bagels. I cry a little inside every time I have bagel in Massachusetts (where I now live) because they never hold up to the gold standard. Whenever I go to NJ to visit my parents, my husband and I stop at Dunellen Bagel and buy a baker's dozen to bring home to MA and freeze. We'll slowly thaw them out and savor each one, trying to make the goodness last as long as possible before we have to live without. That doesn't even start to describe the joy of an egg and cheese on an egg bagel, which forever in my mind have poppy seeds! No where else I've been seems to do that! And salt bagels! I try to get a salt bagel here in MA and everyone looks at me funny! It isn't just that they make the best bagels ever, it's that they make the best bagels ever you can't find elsewhere.
Great. Now I want REAL bagels, and NJ is a bit of a drive at the moment." - Kristin Burger, formerly of Dunellen, currently of South Hadley MA
"Dunellen Bagel makes America's best bagel, not just Central Jersey's. The testimonies of the people who have moved away or traveled far from the area prove that. My mouth is beginning to water as I write this from South Carolina. Their pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwich was a Sunday tradition for our family and waiting in line to order with other members of your community was always a special part of the experience. Dunellen Bagel is a first-stop whenever I'm back home, along with Rome Pizza. Imagine that, a one-square mile town with Central Jersey's best pizza and best bagel. Must be something in the water." - T.J. Wenzel, Greenville, South Carolina
"Without question, Dunellen Bagel gets my vote for the best bagels in Central Jersey! The line might be out the door, but it's well worth the wait! You know you're going to get the freshest bagels, which are often still hot from the oven. Pork roll, egg and cheese on a warm plain bagel is my personal favorite, and even though I no longer live in Dunellen, a visit to Dunellen Bagel is a must whenever I'm in town. My son Andrew lives in Maine, and every time he is home, is sure to take his family to visit Dunellen Bagel. It's a family owned business that is part of my family tradition!!" - Cindy Chattin, Edison, (former Dunellen resident)
"Dunellen Bagel is the bagel place! Awesome sandwiches!" - Courtney Stephan Carmichael
"I have spent three times the cost of buying a dozen bagels to overnight them to California and Florida! Dunellen Bagel is well worth it." - Mary Emmons Johnston
"Without question Dunellen Bagel is the BEST! The line there might be out the door, but is well worth the wait! You can't get any fresher bagels than theirs, and you will often be served one that's still hot from the oven! My son Andrew now lives in Maine, but whenever he is back home, a visit to Dunellen Bagel is a must!" - Cindy Pinto Chattin
"Hands down the best is Dunellen Bagel. When you don't see a line out the door you've gotten lucky. No one minds waiting in line because it is worth the wait. You can pass the time by talking with your neighbors because you will always see people you know." - Dina DiDario
"I have yet to find a place with bagels as delicious as what Dunellen Bagel makes.... nothing comes close! My personal favorite is bacon, egg and cheese on an egg bagel and they make it perfect every single time! I have moved to Florida and my sister and my Nana know how much I love their bagels that they have shipped them to me after freezing and packing them up nicely... I can't wait to come home this summer and get breakfast there!" - Jackie DiGrazio, formerly of Dunellen
"No doubt, Dunellen Bagel is the best always has been always will be." - Kelli Nicole Ontiveros
"Dunellen Bagel makes the best bagels! Sometimes the line can be out the door but I don't mind waiting for a breakfast sandwich that good! Mmmmm, now I know where I'm getting breakfast from tomorrow!" - Kelly Dow
"Dunellen Bagel without a doubt! Was stationed in the Army and been shipped around nothing even comes close! One thing I looked forward to was coming home and hitting up Dunellen Bagel! I have brought friends there from near and far and eveytime they come visit it's always where hitting up Dunellen Bagel in the a.m.! Pork roll egg and cheese! SPK! Best that ever did it!" - Dennis Bibby
"For a one-square-mile town Dunellen has the best of the best. A great community, great people, and great local businesses. Dunellen Bagel tops the list. There is nothing better then a warm freshly out of the oven bagel. Anyone who doesn't have their number on speed dial is crazy." - Cate Walsh
"Dunellen Bagel hands down gets my vote for best bagel in N.J. I've been to a lot of other shops in N.J. trying to find something comparable and nothing ever hits the spot like a bacon egg and cheese from Dunellen Bagel. There's a reason the place is packed and the line usually out the door, but it's always worth the wait." - Shawn Gallagher
"By far the best pork roll, egg and cheese on an egg bagel I have ever had. I have had bagels all over this country and there is no other bagel like the ones Dunellen Bagel serves up. Outstanding." - Mike Stinner
"Dunellen Bagel most definitely has the BEST bagels! Although I do not live in Jersey anymore, there is no question that no other bagel place compares. Whenever I visit my old stomping ground, I make sure I have a pork roll, egg and provolone on an egg bagel every morning from Dunellen Bagel. I have been going there since I was a toddler and I can honestly say Dunellen Bagel is the same genuine, mom-and-pop bagel shop that they have always been. You have not tasted a real bagel until you have had one from Dunellen Bagel." - Michelle Farley, formerly of Somerville
"Without a doubt... Dunellen Bagel! Besides the jalapeno cheddar being fantastic with whatever you choose to put on it, the southwest strake sandwich is the BOMB! After you bite into the all at the same time crunchy, soft and chewy bagel you get the tang of the BBQ sauce then the sweetness of the caramelized onions. As you're knawing on the the juicy decadence you think to yourself... did I just die and go to heaven?!?!?! The meat melts with every bite along with the swiss cheese. Its a collaboration of shimmering glory and magnificent fantasticness in my gullet every time!" - Joe Pork
"Dunellen Bagel. No question to anyone who has been there... A little square-mile town in Jersey pumping out the best bagels in the state via Dunellen Bagel and the best pizza in the state from Rome Pizza..." - Jason McCabe
"Forget Central Jersey area, Best Bagels in the NY metro area! I've lived in the Bronx and Hoboken and no one compares." - Matt Byrnes, Hoboken
"Egg and cheese on a plain with SPK please! They know to cut it in half for me! Dunellen staple that has those who've since moved away coming back for more!" - Cindy Restaino Parisi
"I also vote for Dunellen Bagel, I love the jalapeno cheddar bagel!" - George Morgan
"While it is only a small store, tucked away in the middle of a one square mile town, Dunellen Bagel makes the best bagels I have ever had, anywhere. While my opinion may be biased because I live in Dunellen and am only a few short blocks from this store, I think the weekend lines outside of Dunellen Bagel provide credibility to that opinion. The Portik family has operated Dunellen Bagel for about a quarter of a century and their product is fresh and delicious every day. They have a great bagel sandwich menu and make an amazing pork roll, egg and cheese breakfast meal. My favorite, however, is to simply take whatever type of bagel just came out of the oven with cream cheese (and a half dozen napkins). I also will buy a dozen or more on the weekend, slice them in half, put them in a ziplock bag and freeze them right away. If I don't have time to stop by the store, I'll take a frozen bagel and toast it. It's almost as good as eating them fresh. For my tastes the pumpernickel or egg bagels are outstanding, but they have quite a few types (including a killer jalapeno cheddar and, sometimes, French toast bagels). The Portiks are very supportive of the community and hire local kids to work the store. They also are strong supporters of Dunellen High School athletics and other groups in town. Don't come to Dunellen without stopping by Dunellen Bagel." - John Paul Osborn, Dunellen
"My vote goes hands down to Dunellen Bagel. Maybe right away i had some serious bias to this place because its what I grew up on, but when i left NJ and went to college in Nebraska I found myself wanting and thinking about Dunellen Bagel before i got off the plane when i came home on breaks. I have now been back home in NJ for 4 years and i have been to many different bagel stores trying to find a better bagel. I've had a few other bagels that where OK but I don't think its only about the bagel. I have not found a place that has a comparable pork roll, egg and cheese sandwich to Dunellen Bagel. So where their bagels might be great, in my mind they take the ship with the complete sandwich!" - John Schleppenbach
"By far the best bagel shop is Dunellen Bagel. A very small place but the lines go around the corner every Sunday as everyone knows just how good they are!" - Jake Pino
"This family owned establishment has been cranking out all sorts of hot fresh hand rolled bagels 7 days a week for 26 years. Yes, that's 26 years. Not only have the Portik's been making awesome breakfast sandwiches, but also giving the local high school kids employment ever since. Dunellen Bagel also makes a variety of other bagel lover sandwiches. The standard pork roll and cheese on an egg bagel with SPK has been my favorite for 26 years. It might be yours too when you're done! Locals in the shop know to get the word out, via a quick text or phone call, when hot bagels are moved into their holding bins several times a day. It's a 5 minute ride for anyone in town. A lot of other people stop in from other municipalities to dabble in a variety of offerings, let alone, people who are hopping on the train for their commute into work. Don't be surprised to see a line outside multiple times a day on any given Saturday or Sunday. My hint: pull into a parking spot (if you're lucky) and call in the order. You'll breeze by the folks waiting in line. The staff has always been professional, courteous, and customer focused on delivering you that yummy bagel so you'll be back for another. Trust me. I have for 26 years along with a whole bunch of other folk! Stop in on Sunday throughThursday and ask for Jeff Portik. Tell Jeff that Gus sent ya." - Mike "Gus" Sovak of Dunellen
"Dunellen Bagel is the best. Everyone in Dunellen or who ever lived in Dunellen seems to know that. I know multiple individuals that moved out of state that when they come back to Dunellen who must stop for their bagel before returning home. They also make the best pork roll and cheese bagel *no egg* sandwich. Pure yum." - Keri Oleniach
"Without question Dunellen Bagel wins! I grew up in Dunellen and Have since moved to the Washington D.C. area. When I would visit my mother and father, that was one of the things I looked forward to, a pork roll, egg and cheese on an everything bagel. Now my mother and father have passed, I really do not have a reason to go back... but I actually do. My friends down here in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virigina) ask me when I come back to NJ to see friends to stop by Dunellen Bagel and get them a baker's dozen sliced so that can freeze them. A real treat. You may be getting some DC votes, but please know the reason, I share the bagels... and I share the love!" - Bill McKenna, formerly of Dunellen
"I vote for Dunellen Bagel since it has the best bagels around! I grew up in Dunellen and have been going there since they opened. Even though I don't live in Dunellen anymore, when I visit I always get my favorite pork roll egg and cheese on a plain bagel with pepper and ketchup!" - Julie Cleary, formerly of Dunellen
"My vote is for Dunellen Bagel. The BEST!" - H. Parkinson
"Great bagels, excellent staff and even the customers are nice - present customer excluded. Can't beat their Taylor ham, egg and cheese on a jalapeno bagel with a Laws coffee (founded in Dunellen in 1909." - Mike Byrnes
"I grew up in Dunellen and live in Middlesex. Dunellen Bagel makes the absolute best pork roll, egg and cheese sandwiches in the world and have for over 25 years. I've had pork roll sandwiches and bagels all over the state and my favorite is Dunellen Bagel." - Mark Warren
