L-Stop Musts: Bagels Edition

From the local to the delicate, Chicago is brimming with a vibrant selection of bagel shops. For Loyola students, the Red Line acts as a gateway to explore Chicago’s bagel scene. 

Belmont: Chicago Bagel Authority (955 W. Belmont Ave.)

Smelling of fresh sourdough, freshly cooked eggs and herby aromas, Chicago Bagel Authority rests in an antiquated brick building. Steps the Belmont stop, the shop draws in locals and newcomers with inviting smells wafting from the door. 

Chicago Bagel Authority has a unique menu with cleverly named items representing a feeling, mood or state of being. For $11, an Ariana Grande or Jim Carey fan can get “Eternal Sunshine,” with scrambled eggs, bacon, lox spread, onion, tomato, avocado and tabasco on bialy — a chewy, bagel-like roll that’s baked instead of boiled and lacks the signature hole.

In addition to the wide range of bagels, Chicago Bagel Authority offers salads, soups and their very own handcrafted steamwiches — steamed meat sandwiches on bagels, pretzel rolls, naan wraps or gluten-free bagels.

The shop’s interior matches the energy of its offerings, with walls adorned in eclectic decor ranging from vintage posters to colorful local art piece contributions. The space is cozy with a snug layout and bar stools lining the counters.

Chicago Bagel Authority is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Fullerton: The Bagelers Coffeehouse (2461 N. Lincoln Ave.) 

Situated near the Fullerton stop, The Bagelers Coffeehouse brings an artisan touch to the Chicago bagel scene. The shop specializes in hand-rolled, kettle-boiled Chicago-style bagels, according to Chicago Magazine. 

The exterior of a Chicago-style bagel is shiny and crisp, while the interior is soft and chewy like a donut. 

Each item on their menu is filled to the brim with creative, fresh ingredients. A hungry student can hop on the train and get the signature kettle-boiled bagel “The Bageler” for $8.85 — two crispy bagels engulfing a fresh fried egg, applewood smoked bacon strip, serving of Muenster cheese and the store’s house-made chipotle mayo. 

The Bagelers also doubles as a coffeehouse, with an espresso menu paired with coffee cake muffins that rival the quality of their signature bagels. 

The sleek interior features minimalist decor, warm lighting and ample seating, making it an inviting spot for studying or enjoying a quiet moment. 

The Bagelers is open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Belmont: The Bagel (3107 N. Broadway) 

A longstanding fixture in the Lakeview neighborhood, The Bagel has been serving the community for almost 70 years, according to their website. The Bagel is a Jewish family-owned deli founded by owner Dannt Wolf who survived the Holocaust, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Located a short walk from the Belmont stop, the deli offers more than just bagels — it provides a taste of tradition. The menu has an extensive amount of breakfast, lunch and dinner options to choose from. Complimentary slices of challah and bagel chips accompany entree dishes.

Between classes, students can stop by the deli to curb their hunger and leave feeling satisfied. The “Lox Spread,” priced at $10.25, pairs with a garden-fresh salad, available for $15 to $17. 

The store’s decor radiates a nostalgic charm, reminiscent of old-school New York delis, with vintage photographs and a warm ambiance. 

The Bagel offers online takeout services and catering for event occasions. 

Open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., The Bagel is a versatile spot, whether for a leisurely brunch, dinner with friends or a filling to-go meal. 

Chicago: Pierrot Gourmet (108 E. Superior St.) 

Residing inside the Peninsula Hotel off the Chicago stop, Pierrot Gourmet offers an elevated approach to bagels in the heart of downtown Chicago. Inside this European-inspired cafe, customers can bathe in the warm lighting and examine the rustic wooden beams while indulging in savory bagels.

Pierrot Gourmet offers a delicately smoked salmon bagel platter, featuring sliced fish, chewy bagel, carefully arranged garnishes and a side of tangy cream cheese. 

Serving breakfast and dinner, Pierrot Gourmet adds a European spin to its food options. For $22, the “tuna melt tartine” includes French beans, olives, tomato and gruyere on sourdough.

The gourmet menu prices are costly, but the fresh ingredients and delicate platter arrangements transform food into fine art. 

The cafe location allows students to explore the Magnificent Mile while also enjoying dainty dining. Pierrot Gourmet is open Wednesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and weekends from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.